Yale Black Seminarians 55 Anniversary Week

Join us for a captivating panel discussion on the "State of the Black Church" as part of the Yale Black Seminarians' 55th Anniversary Celebration. This event will delve into the contemporary challenges and opportunities facing the Black church.

Esteemed alumni and current students of the Yale Black Seminarians will share their insights on topics such as the intersection of faith and social justice activism, the evolving role of clergy and congregations, and strategies for fostering inclusivity within Black religious communities.

This diverse panel promises a nuanced exploration of the State of the Black Church today, offering attendees a deeper understanding of its significance and potential. Open to all members of the Yale community and the public, this event invites scholars, practitioners, and curious minds alike to engage in this timely discussion.

Join us for an enlightening conversation that seeks to envision a more inclusive and vibrant future for the Black church.

The livestream can be watched here too: https://vimeo.com/event/4241859

Join us as we commemorate 55 years of excellence and resilience with the Yale Black Seminarians!

This one-day extravaganza will feature a captivating panel discussion, a soul-stirring chapel service at Marquand Chapel, and a glamorous gala in the evening. The 55th-anniversary celebration aims to reunite YBS alumni, current students, and allies for an enriching blend of fellowship, dialogue, and prayer, as we chart the course for the future of YBS, the Black Church, and society at large. Embracing the theme "This is our story," (drawn from the old hymn, “Blessed Assurance”) we'll share tales of perseverance and triumph over white supremacist structures and systems, celebrating our journey together. Don't miss out on this historic event of reflection, empowerment, and unity!

The Yale Black Seminarians (YBS) was founded 55 years ago as a beacon of hope, community, and advocacy within Yale Divinity School. Since its inception, YBS has been a vital force in promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion within the institution and beyond. Through its programming, mentorship, and activism, YBS has empowered generations of Black seminarians to navigate the complexities of theological education while challenging systemic injustices. Today, YBS continues to serve as a catalyst for change, fostering dialogue, solidarity, and spiritual resilience among its members and the wider community. As we celebrate 55 years of YBS, we honor its legacy of courage, resilience, and vision for a more just and equitable world.

• YBS Alumni
• Current Student
• Guest
• YDS Campus Community

Come worship with the Yale Black Seminarians and Andover Newton Seminary at our Emmaus encounter event. Dinner and bible study begins at 6:30 pm, and service starts at 7:15 pm.

Come worship with the Yale Black Seminarians and Berkeley Divinity School. Service starts at 6:00 pm and dinner will be at 7:15 pm at Bethesda Lutheran Church, 305 St Ronan St, New Haven, CT 06511.

gOD-Talk is the culmination project of The Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History & Culture Center for the Study of African American Religious Life, in association with The Pew Research Center’s five-year study of Black millennials. The feature-length film explores the lives of seven Black millennials–Atheist, Buddhist, Christian, Muslim, Ifa, and Spiritualist–and the challenges and discoveries with faith and spirituality.

Come worship at Mount Aery Baptist Church with the Yale Black Seminarians as we celebrate 55 years at YDS. Service begins at 9:30 am. There is a small lot at the church, and street parking is available.