On the NBPC Possibilities
Mark 3:1-2

 

“Another time Jesus went into the synagogue, and a man with a shriveled hand was there.  Some of them were looking for a reason to accuse Jesus, so they watched him closely to see if he would heal him on the Sabbath.”
-Mark 3:1-2 NIV

 

Hi!  Take a seat.  Rest your body.  Relax your mind for a little while and think with me for a few moments.  I have asked any number of pastors, elders and members of our churches about their commitment to the Church and Black/African American Presbyterianism?  Some have given eloquent words to this question.  But, when asked why they are not an active member of the NBPC, the responses have not been from eloquent; and expressing no interest, no concern and/or no care.  So, I have been thinking about it for more than, “a few moments.”   If you are committed, concerned and care, why not stop “watching,” from the sidelines and get involved?

What if?  What if, all our pastors, lay commissioned elders and moderators of our sessions were members of the NBPC?  What if, all elders of all our sessions we members of a local NBPC chapter?  What if, all the members sitting in our pews on Sunday mornings were receiving monthly firsthand information about the NBPC through our monthly newsletter?  What if, every member convalescing at home could participate in the NBPC’s online programs and activities?  What if, every youth director and every young adult coordinator could share throughout the church and develop relationships all around the country?

Well, “another time,” is fastly approaching.  The 48th Biennial Conference of the NBPC will be in Charlotte, NC, June 19-21, 2025.  If, there is any thought the NBPC’s purpose of “Congregational Enhancement and Church Growth,” is shriveling, the thought is in error.  However, it is true that “some members in our churches,” are “looking for a reason,” from the sidelines to get involved.

The NBPC’s leadership: national, regional and chapters, are all working hard at bringing the right, true and undated information on ministry in the Black/African American Christian context.  This effort takes place not only on Sunday, “the Sabbath,” but seven days a week.

So, considering, if, we take the Caucus’ purpose and programs to Christ Jesus, we will only be able “to accuse him,” of doing GOOD!  Therefore, only two questions remain:

  • What if, you were in Charlotte, North Carolina on June 19th-21st?
  • What if, you brought someone sitting on the sidelines with you?

And, oh, can Christ Jesus heal on the Sabbath?  Yes!

Rev. Dr. Charles C. Heyward, Sr.
President, NBPC
03.10.25