“Dr. Perry’s book caused me to reflect in the reverse: What does it mean to be Black? Many say every Black American has to think about this question, but I hadn’t examined it critically enough—at least not in the ways that Dr. Perry presented it to me through her book. Her work is scattered with American and international stories, some of which offer powerful reflections on how a color became a culture and what being that color has meant to us historically and today. Dr. Perry presents these ideas in a poetic way, as is her style. She entrances you with her words, leading you to curiosity and pondering their meaning. She does this in the most creative and imaginative way by telling the story of being Black through the color blue. The book allows you to see how blue is entangled with the history of being Black, from the indigo plantations to artistic choices. While reading, I couldn’t help but think about how much my wife loves the color blue and how she had us paint our living room walls a dark ocean blue. The interior of her parents’ house is the same blue.”

"The journey makes you a pilgrim because the Camino is not only a track to be walked but a parable and a reality all at once. It transforms you, working within and outside of you, not just during the time it takes to walk each stage but throughout your entire life—if you allow it. Walking this holy way alongside eleven centuries of pilgrims, I’ve learned that pilgrimage is more than movement; it’s a practice of trust, endurance, and finding grace in every step."

Mentorship is often thought of as a formal relationship, but what if it’s already happening all around us, shaping us in ways we don’t realize? Reflecting on my journey as a camp counselor, a mentee, and a leader in ministry, I discovered that mentorship is deeply tied to imitation—a concept explored both in first-century discipleship and René Girard’s mimetic theory. Through the lens of my own African American faith experience, I came to see how culture, values, and traditions mentor us in profound ways. This article invites you to reflect on your own desires and ask: Who or what are you imitating, and how does that shape the person you’re becoming?

A stronger, more vibrant Black community is an integral component of a more prosperous America. For anyone who has had the opportunity to witness the evolving dynamics of American society, there's a resounding call from the conservative right to "Make America Great Again." However, I firmly contend that for America to truly embody greatness, it must prioritize…

Three days later, the pastor called me into his back office, sat me down, and the only thing he said to me was, “I probably should have done this a long time ago, but I'm going to have to let you go.” And just like that, the church my family had found when I was in first grade—the church I fell in love with after doing an internship at 13—after working full time since 18—I was now 26 years old and fired. Deep inside of me, I still believed the Lord wanted me in ministry. I just didn't know how, I didn't know when, and I'd honestly kind of given up on the dream.