Area citizens reflect on meaning of month

 

February is National Black History Month, set aside to recognize and honor the contributions African-Americans have made to their country. It is both a celebration and an education.

For older generations, it is a time to reflect on accomplishments of the past and present and set goals for the future. For younger generations, it is an opportunity to learn who you are and where you came from.

“Children of the black race don’t realize how far we’ve come as people. They take for granted it has always been the way it is now,” Dr. Douglas Carter, pastor of First Baptist of Burlington, said.

 

Recognizing experiences, recognizing achievement

Carter said black history is really American history and should be taught as such. He pointed out that so many inventors, scientists, educators and prominent citizens from all walks of life were, and are, African-Americans. Each of them made contributions as Americans to America.

The Rev. James Stowe, pastor of Quinn Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, said for young people, the message of Black History Month is that, in spite of adversity and in spite of prejudice, African-Americans persevered. And success is still possible.

Stowe said the message to younger generations is, “If the people before them could do it, then they can do it also.”

Stowe pointed out that American history includes so many cultures; celebrating Black History helps emphasize one aspect of it.

“What it does is broadens the light on the history of America and how black folks contributed to the progress of America,” Stowe said.

Carter said, although some things may divide us as people, the most important things unite us.

“God made us equal,” Carter said. “Every man has a soul to save.”

 

Celebrations

Stowe said today, the bishop of the Third Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal Church, C. Garnett Henning, will visit Quinn Chapel. Not only will Black History be celebrated but also the church’s history: Today is Founder’s Day.

“This is the first time in 70 years a presiding Episcopal bishop has been here,” Stowe said. Henning will speak at 4:30 p.m.

Next Sunday, First Baptist Church of Burlington will celebrate Black History Month with sermons by two young ministers in the church, the Revs. Stacy Jones and Robert Young. After the morning worship parishioners will gather for a soul food dinner.

“We’ll have favorite dishes of some of the elders,” the pastor’s wife, Barbara Carter said. “Chicken and dumplings, greens, meat loaf, corn pudding and barbecue pig’s feet.”