Conference of National Black Churches Convenes For Change
By Darryl Izzard
“Out from a gloomy past, till now we stand at last,†has been the plight of many African Americans living in the U.S. today. Now, the newly revitalized Conference of National Black Churches (CNBC) has joined together to address the striking inequities that are impacting the masses of Black people. Leaders and representatives from eight major historically Black denominations join forces to focus on four areas: Education, Health, Social Justice/Public Policy and Economic Empowerment
The ecumenical coalition representing 65,000 churches and a membership of more than 20 million people convened last week, December 7-10, 2010, in Washington, DC (Omni Shoreham hotel), and held session discussing: Public Policy Training; an Economic Empowerment Pilot Program Rollout; the “Every Child†Educational Program; the State of Health in the Black Community; Social Justice and the Black Community.
On Wednesday (Dec 8), each of the denominations joined together for an affirmation ser- vice, where they affirmed their oneness in Christ at the Israel Baptist Church, 1251 Saratoga Avenue, NE, Washington, DC.
On Thursday (Dec 9), the conference recognized the contributions of Ambassador Andrew Young and others during an honors banquet.
“One of the benefits of CNBC is that we aren’t encumbered by denominational machinery. We are able to focus on the issues that we must address and develop a plan to implement solutions,†confirms Dr. W. Franklyn Richardson, Chairman. “In each area of focus we’ve identified partners who have demonstrated a track record of commitment and success.â€
Currently, CNBC’s primary funders are The Ford Foundation, GlobalHue, and the member denominations.
Attendees left the conference equiped with a list of action items and a commitment to use the influence and power of the leadership of historically Black denominations to serve as a critical organizational base, voice and influence to advocate for African Americans.
I am glad to hear the church is taking on the responsibility to be what we are called to be, “the city on the hill.” By standing together we can and will make a difference within our communities.
People have long considered blacks, especially black Christians to be unlearned and unhealthy. Thank you for striving to change this mind-set