ASBURY FIRST MONDAY READER | FEBRUARY 10, 2025

CONTENTS: CELEBRATING BLACK HISTORY | PHEORIS WEST'S "THE BAPTISM OF CHRIST"

Black History Month is a time to honor the rich legacy, resilience, and contributions of Black leaders in every sphere of society—including the church. From the earliest days of Methodism to the present, Black clergy and laypeople have shaped our denomination with their prophetic voices, courageous leadership, and unwavering faith. Despite facing systemic racism and barriers to full inclusion, these individuals have stood at the forefront of justice, advocacy, and spiritual renewal. Their ministries have inspired countless lives, helping to guide the United Methodist Church toward a deeper commitment to equity and inclusion. As we reflect on their impact, we are called to continue their work, striving for a church and a world where all are truly seen, valued, and empowered. Today, we lift up four of the Black leaders whose faith and service have left an indelible mark on our denomination.

These individuals, among many others, have enriched our faith and strengthened our church. As we reflect on their legacies, let us be inspired to continue their work toward justice, equality, and spiritual renewal. For more information on Black history in the UMC, visit: United Methodist Church’s official website.

"THE BAPTISM OF CHRIST" BY PHEORIS WEST

Within this painting are several components that enhance our enjoyment and understanding. In the center is the figure of Jesus: bold, strong, and physical. This figure is the only part that feels real. This is the important part. The rest is abstract. We see the strong body, the white cloth leads us up to his face. This is not a young man, there is a scar or worry line on his forehead. Sorrowful and contemplative, is Jesus seeing what will happen to him? Is the artist asking us to see the past of the African- American experience and the sorrow that comes with remembering?

Looking closer we can see there are three faces on the main figure. Our first face looks directly at us. One face looks to the left. This is an African mask of sorts. It represents the past before slavery, full of honor and culture. One face looks to the right. It is the face of an African- American young man, representing the future. The central face looks at us and at the present. The face of an ancient African is formed by the abstract figure of a descending dove.

Following the gaze of the young man is the section of the border that is not straight. What is here? It is another face. The abstract profile of John the Baptist. Following the black line you can see the profile of an eye, nose, lips, and chin meeting with a rounded shoulder. These black arms and hands surrounding Jesus do not belong to Jesus. These are the arms of John the Baptist that are surrounding, encompassing, holding Jesus contemplating the past and future. John is holding on to all the dimensions of the son of God.