Franklin Avenue Baptist Church to Host Best-Selling Book Signing Featuring Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson and Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin

NEW ORLEANS, LA — The date has changed! Franklin Avenue Baptist Church will host a special book signing featuring Retired Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson and Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin, co-authors of the Amazon best-selling book Behind the Gavel: Lessons from Chief Justice Bernette J. Johnson, on Sunday, August 23, 2026, immediately following worship services.

The book signing was previously scheduled for Sunday, August 30. Community members are encouraged to mark the new date: Sunday, August 23.

The event will take place at Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, 8282 I-10 Service Road South, New Orleans, Louisiana. Attendees will have an opportunity to meet both Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson and purchase autographed copies of the book.

Behind the Gavel shares the inspiring journey of Chief Justice Johnson, the first African American to serve as Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court. Through historical reflections, personal stories, and leadership lessons, the book celebrates her commitment to justice, equality, perseverance, and public service.

“Working alongside Chief Justice Johnson to share her story has been both a privilege and an honor. My hope is that readers of all ages will be inspired by her journey and encouraged to pursue lives of leadership, service, and excellence,” said Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin, Chief Editor of Boulevard Magazine and co-author of Behind the Gavel.

“Franklin Avenue Baptist Church is honored to welcome Retired Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson and Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin to our church family. Chief Justice Johnson's life is a powerful testimony of faith, perseverance, and servant leadership,” said Pastor Fred Luter Jr., Senior Pastor of Franklin Avenue Baptist Church.

Books will be available for purchase and personalized signing immediately following worship services. The community is invited to attend and celebrate the extraordinary life and legacy of Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson.

For additional information, please contact:

Mr. Lawrence Martin

Chief Executive Officer,

Boulevard Magazine

(504) 416-9699

About Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson (Ret.)

Retired Chief Justice Bernette Joshua Johnson made history as the first African American to serve as Chief Justice of the Louisiana Supreme Court. Throughout her distinguished legal career, she has been a steadfast advocate for justice, civil rights, equal opportunity, and access to the courts. Her trailblazing leadership has inspired generations of lawyers, judges, public servants, and community leaders.

About Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin

Hon. KaTrina Chantelle Griffin is an elected member of the Orleans Parish School Board representing District 4, Chief Editor of Boulevard Magazine, entrepreneur, best-selling author, and community leader. She is dedicated to preserving stories that inspire leadership, education, civic engagement, and public service while amplifying the voices and achievements of those who have shaped their communities.

About Franklin Avenue Baptist Church

Franklin Avenue Baptist Church, under the leadership of Pastor Fred Luter Jr., is one of the nation's leading congregations, committed to proclaiming the Gospel of Jesus Christ while serving the community through worship, education, outreach, and ministry.