Let’s Travel This Path Of Faith, Together
We often hear, “There’s power in numbers.” No one knew this more than historically Black churches. Church was where they committed to uplifting and protecting one another as they walked the path of faith together. Our faith has always been tied to Black unity.
After the Civil War, free Black people formed their own churches independent of white leadership. Many congregations chose to be Baptist because it honored autonomy within worship.
In Virginia numerous Black congregations formed out of the desire to build religious, regional associations. Regional associations were low key a major religious, Black power move.
Associations became powerful tools for Black Baptist churches. They were a way for churches to share resources, expand community, organize politically, and offer congregants protective strength in numbers.
Although a few regional associations were established before the Civil War, the Colored Shiloh Baptist Association was formed in 1865. Seven all-Black churches came together to form a mighty union with nearly 10,000 members.
Three years later the number of churches in the Association had skyrocketed from seven churches to 75, with a total of 25,122 members.
Spirit knows that there is power in numbers. How can we use our faith to band together? To be of service to each other? To protect each other?
The Colored Shiloh Baptist Association was a group of Black people committed to uplifting and protecting one another as they walked by faith and by sight.
They remind us that our unity can only ever strengthen our faith.
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