October is Black History Month in the UK, and it’s a time to celebrate, reflect, and act. This year’s theme, “Standing Firm in Power and Pride,” invites us to remember the resilience, dignity, and legacy of Black British communities, while also recognising the ongoing work for justice, equity, and reconciliation.
For Churches Together in England, Black History Month is more than cultural observance; it is a moment with deep ecumenical significance. It calls the whole Body of Christ to reflect together, to honour the gifts of Black voices and communities, and to ask how we might live more faithfully into God’s vision of justice, unity, and belonging.
The ecumenical significance of Black History Month
Black History Month was first marked in the UK in 1987, inspired by Ghanaian-born activist Akyaaba Addai Sebo and supported by the Greater London Council. October was chosen to coincide with the beginning of the academic year, ensuring young people could see themselves in the nation’s story.
From an ecumenical perspective, this month is a reminder that:
- The Church is enriched by Black stories and leadership. Across traditions, Black Christians have shaped theology, worship, mission, and community life.
- Justice is part of our discipleship. The Gospel calls us to repent from racism and exclusion, and to seek reconciliation across divides.
- Unity does not mean uniformity. Black History Month challenges churches to celebrate cultural differences as a gift to the whole Body of Christ.
- The future is intercultural. Listening to and standing with Black-majority churches, as well as supporting Black Christians across all traditions, is vital for the Church’s mission and witness.
In many ways, Black History Month is an opportunity for the church to move beyond remembrance into action, solidarity, and transformation.
Ways churches can mark Black History Month
Churches and Christian organisations across England are finding creative ways to mark this moment. Some ideas include:
- Hosting a sermon or Bible study series exploring themes of justice, liberation, and God’s vision of diversity.
- Sharing stories and testimonies of Black Christians in your congregation or wider community.
- Incorporating music, liturgy, and art from Black traditions into worship.
- Partnering ecumenically to host a panel, prayer evening, or cultural celebration.
- Creating space for listening and dialogue about race, history, and reconciliation.
Read the Churches Together in Britain and Ireland Black History Month 2025 resources
Events across the country
Many local churches, cathedrals, dioceses, and Christian organisations are hosting services, talks, exhibitions, and workshops. Including:
Diocese of Southwark Celebration of Identity & Belonging, at Southwark Cathedral on Saturday 4 October at 10.30am. A service of thanksgiving with a Eucharist celebration, followed by a workshop focused on the theme, “Who do you say that I am?” (Matthew 16:15b).
Diocese of Leicester Service of Celebration on Sunday 5 October, 10.30am at Leicester Cathedral, with guest preacher Revd Guy Hewitt, Director of the Church of England’s Racial Justice Unit.
USPG discussion ‘Black History Month: Removing the eraser’ Wednesday 8 October, St Barnabas, Kensington, W14 at 7pm. Speakers include Bishop of Willesden Lusa Nsenga-Ngoy and the founder of Street Pastors, Rev Les Isaac.
Churches Together in Essex and East London ‘The Gathering’ Thursday 16 October 10am to 3pm
Queens Foundation for Ecumenical Theological Education events for Black History Month 2025.
Find more Black History Month events.
A Call to the Church
At its heart, Black History Month is an invitation:
- To remember those whose stories have too often been left untold.
- To celebrate the richness of Black cultures and communities in our midst.
- To repent of racism and injustice.
- To stand together in hope, unity, and action.
As the apostle Paul reminds us, “If one part suffers, every part suffers with it; if one part is honoured, every part rejoices with it” (1 Corinthians 12:26).
This October, let us rejoice together, learn together, and continue to build a Church where all are welcome.