About the Black Religious Scholars Group
The guiding vision of the Black Religious Scholars Group (BRSG) is to sponsor consultations and speaking series for the edification of the liberating theology and witness of the Black Church tradition within the academy, church, and wider Black community. This vision originated during a session of the Black Theology Group during the 1996 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Religion/Society of Biblical Literature Annual Meeting in New Orleans, La. Those in attendance realized that the discussion and work of Black religious scholars tend to be situated firmly within academic circles, causing us to lose sight of the goal of Black religion: libera- tion and human fulfillment in all areas of life.
We recognized that faithfulness to our call as religious scholars, preachers, and community activists requires relevant theological activity that is both committed and accessible to the larger African diasporan church and society. Our annual public forums across North America at welcoming congregations continue the process of exploring ways in which meaningful dialogue and partnership can occur between Black religious scholars and the larger Black community and its churches. It is for this purpose that we assemble consultations that consist of panels of distinguished representatives from the church, community, theological academy, and you, the gathered audience.
We hope that these consultations and the vision they embody will continue the tradition of organizing the church and community for the spiritual empowerment, human fulfillment, and social/economic uplift of Black folk. The BRSG is committed to facilitating these dialogues in the hope that they will contribute to the well-being and advancement of both our people and communities.
Womanists at the Inkwell 2024
The Black Religious Scholars Group
presents the
Second Annual Consultation Womanists at the Inkwell
July 21-24, 2024
But Ruth said [to Naomi], “Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Ruth 1:16
Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing. I Thess 5:11
This year, our conference theme is "Just a Sister Away: Cultivating and Celebrating Sister Circles," and it will take place from July 21 to July 24, 2024. This gathering will be a unique occasion to honor and celebrate the remarkable contributions of two distinguished scholars and justice activists, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Hale and Rev. Dr. Renita Weems. Both extraordinary women have made significant strides in their fields, and their work continues to inspire many.
Prepare to be inspired and engaged as we delve deeply into the intersection of scholarship and justice within the rich tapestry of womanist thought. Our conference will feature a stellar lineup of esteemed presenters who will lead enlightening discussions and thought-provoking dialogues. These sessions are designed to foster a deeper understanding of womanism, its impact, and its future trajectory.
You do not want to miss this unparalleled opportunity to connect, learn, and grow alongside like-minded individuals who are passionate about advancing womanist principles. Attendees will have the chance to network with peers, engage with influential thought leaders, and participate in dynamic workshops and panel discussions. This event promises to leave a lasting impact. Do not miss this chance to be a part of something truly special and transformative.
JUST A SISTER AWAY:
CULTIVATING AND CELEBRATING SISTER CIRCLES
PROGRAM
SUNDAY, JULY 21, 2024
10: 00 AM MORNING WORSHIP
MORNING WORSHIP
UNION CHAPEL, OAK BLUFFS
REV. DR. LESLIE CALLAHAN
PASTOR, ST. PAUL BAPTIST CHURCH
PHILADELPHIA, PA
5:00 PM COMMUNITY DINNER
NOMANS
15 ISLAND INN ROAD
OAK BLUFFS, MA 02557
PROGRAM
MONDAY, JULY 22, 2024
10: 00AM WELCOME AND OPENING THE CIRCLE
WELCOME AND OPENING OF THE SISTER CIRCLE DIALOGUE UNION CHAPEL, OAK BLUFFS
MODERATOR, DR. STACEY M. FLOYD- THOMAS, VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY DIVINITY SCHOOL
REV. DR. RENITA J. WEEMS SEMINARY OF THE SOUTHWEST, AUSTIN TX
REV. DR. CYNTHIA HALE RAY OF HOPE CHRISTIAN CHURCH, ATLANTA, GA
1 1 : 00AM A WOMANIST ETHIC OF SISTERING
JENNIFER WATLEY MAXELL
LEAH D. JACKSON
KELLY U. FARROW
1 2 : 00 AM ROUNDTABLE CONVERSATIONS:
WHHISTLESTOPS AND WIDENING THE CIRLCES
“THE COTTAGERS” MVY BLACK WOMEN PROPERTY OWNERS
ALIYA BROWNE
“SISTERS OF THE CLOTH” MINISTERIAL CIRCLES
KELLY FARROW AND LEAH D. JACKSON
“CLUBWOMEN” PROFESSIONAL CIRCLES
“CLUBWOMEN” PROFESSIONAL CIRCLES
CHERYL TOWNSEND GILKES
“SORORS” SORORITY CIRCLES
EBONI MARSHALL TURMAN
“BLOOD SISTERS” FAMILY CIRCLES
JANET FLOYD AND STACEY FLOYD- THOMAS
“FEMINIST/ MULTIRACIAL” ALLIED CIRCLES
CATHLIN BAKER
“MANNISH” ALLIES
JUAN FLOYD- THOMAS