Symbols of Faith: A Lenten Devotional for African American Churches and Families
Compiled by Charisse L. Gillett
Edited by Tanya J. Tyler
The Lenten journey demands deep spiritual reflection, yet for many, this sacred time is overshadowed by the "hardcore realities" of life. African Americans often navigate a world confronting issues of racism, economic struggle, and spiritual warfare, which can leave the soul weary and in search of clarity. You may feel pressured to perform or strive for external validation, yet what you truly seek is enduring hope amid suffering and a profound connection to a God who knows and chooses you. Symbols of Faith: A Lenten Devotional for African American Churches and Families is your trusted guide, offering deep spiritual insight rooted specifically in the African American experience.
This unique devotional, written by African American scholars, pastors, and lay leaders, is an invitation to go deeper into the forty-day period leading to Easter. You will reflect on Jesus’ ministry through the disciplines of prayer, repentance, fasting, and almsgiving, moving beyond mere routine to authentic surrender. Experience transformation by examining vivid imagery drawn from personal narratives, movies, music, and African symbols. The devotions explore concepts such as the dignity of purple and the deliverance of red. This journey calls you to become a radical disciple and an active agent of mutuality, love, justice, and peace. Prepare for the joy of Resurrection Sunday, knowing that even in your lowliness, you are a walking miracle.
Contributors include:
- Denise Bell
- Nadine Burton
- Belva Brown Jordan
- LaTaunya M. Bynum
- Delores Carpenter
- Dara Cobb Lewis
- B. Chris Dorsey
- Sharon Ellis Davis
- Dikiea J. Elery
- Joan Bell Haynes
- Charisse L. Gillett
- Donald K. Gillett II
- Teresa Hord Owens
- Vinnetta Golphin-Wilkerson
- Jesse Jackson Jr.
- Cherisna Jean-Marie
- Delesslyn A. Kennebrew
- Virzola Law
- Freddie Lawton Sr.
- Marcus L. Leathers
- William L. Lee
- Amariah McIntosh
- Kevin L. McNeil
- Nathl L. Moore
- Sheila R. Morris
- Cynthia Newman
- Walter Owens Jr.
- Derrick L. Perkins Sr.
- F. Douglas Powe Jr.
- Perzavia T. Praylow
- Kimberley Proctor-White
- LaVeeshia S. Pryor
- Edward Smith Davis
- Jack Sullivan Jr.
- Leslie Carole Taylor
- Maxine L. Thomas
- Tanya J. Tyler
- Jamyl N. Walker
- Monica Wedlock Kilpatrick
- Christal L. Williams
- Tara Faith Williams
- Michael L. Zachary Sr.