Religion

Rev. Vivian Baker Castain broke new ground as the first woman pastor in the Second Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, a role she embraced until her retirement in 2000. Despite her official retirement, she continues to engage actively in ministry, traveling and ministering to this day.

Faith-based therapists are increasingly incorporating biblical principles alongside evidence-based therapeutic methods to assist clients in navigating life transitions, overcoming obstacles, and fostering spiritual, emotional, and mental growth. This approach reflects a broader trend in mental health care that recognizes the importance of integrating religious beliefs with clinical practices to support holistic healing.

Rev. Dr. Terry Thornton and Bishop Marilyn E. Bostic have successfully merged Sweet Hope Free Will Baptist Church with another congregation, forging a new path for community service. The merger, which began organically through shared worship and ministry initiatives, represents a significant development in fostering unity and expanding outreach efforts. This collaboration highlights the potential for innovative approaches to ministry, addressing diverse community needs while honoring the legacy of both churches.

The Moral Mondays protest in Washington, D.C. on June 30 starkly illustrated the potential human cost of proposed healthcare cuts, with 51 caskets symbolizing the 51,000 lives at risk in the first year alone. Bishop William Barber II, a key figure in the movement, and Chris Shumake, who relies on Medicaid and SNAP, highlighted the dire implications of the cuts for vulnerable communities.

Street Psalms, a faith-based organization headquartered in Tacoma, Washington, collaborates with ministries and grassroots social service groups to advance its mission of spreading the Gospel and aiding impoverished urban communities globally.

A decade has passed since the tragic shooting at Mother Emanuel AME Church, yet the struggle for legislative reform persists. Democratic leaders are advocating for enhanced background checks to close the 'Charleston loophole,' aiming to prevent future racially-motivated violence.

"Finding Faith," a new film starring Paula Patton and Keith David, explores a woman's journey of spiritual searching and redemption following a profound personal loss. The film's themes resonate deeply with its cast, many of whom have drawn from their own experiences of healing and faith.

Dr. Shavon Arline-Bradley, president and CEO of the National Council of Negro Women, is leading efforts to empower Black women and their families through education, advocacy, and service. She is also championing the continued relevance of the organization in contemporary society.

The Community Concert Choir of Baltimore is set to make its debut at Carnegie Hall on Pentecost Sunday, June 8, presenting a distinctive repertoire that includes Negro spirituals, gospel, and African American sacred music.

For the first time in history, the Maryland Legislative Black Caucus is led entirely by women, spearheading significant legislative efforts in reparations, education, and criminal justice reform. Under the leadership of Delegate Jheanelle Wilkins, the caucus integrates policy with a profound commitment to faith, reflecting a unique approach to governance that combines power with purpose.