Black Church Studies: Some of the Roots

Abstract

It is the sincere desire of me and my wife Ella to do all that we possibly can to assist the teaching and learning of Black Church Studies, toward the end that professionally trained clergy may serve Black churches with natural effectiveness rather than frustration and count it all genuine joy. And it is our hope that this, a written record of how we, the Mitchells, escaped cultural captivity, may save readers many years of on-the-job learning of the sort through which we have had to go. We are still writing, lecturing, preaching, and consulting in the field of Black Church Studies. Our itinerary hardly reflects retirement, and these could be called the best years of our lives.

Editor’s Note: The Rev. Drs. Henry H. and Ella P. Mitchell were partners in life, ministry, and education for over 60 years. Henry from Columbus, Ohio, and Ella from Charleston, South Carolina, met in New York City when they were students at Union Theological Seminary. Both graduates of Union Theological Seminary (Henry ‘44 and Ella ‘43), the Mitchells went on to stellar careers as scholars and organizers balanced by their steadfast commitment to the church through ministry. Their 1999 book, Together for Good, was a dual biography which also commemorated their then 55 years together. In 2008, Ella passed away at 91 years of age. The chapter, below, was originally drafted by Henry prior to her death. As editors, we think it appropriate to keep the present-tense voice in which it was written.