We teach, research, publish, and create experiences to nurture effective leaders for the church, the academy, and the world.
LATEST ANNOUNCEMENTS & EVENTS
OBCS Celebrates 50 Years!
1972-2022
Pilgrimages of
Striving & Thriving
A New Podcast
Exploring how Black pastoral leaders in the United States flourish in their various ministerial contexts.
At the Office of Black Church Studies, we seek to enrich the work and witness of Duke Divinity School—with both theological and spiritual resources from Black Church contexts.
We draw from intellectual and empirical resources of Africa and the African Diaspora, and strengthen the mission and vocation of the school to impact congregations, organizations, and societies locally and globally.
We help to form good and faithful leaders through curricula, lectures, and relationships and networks.
One
Unique Course Offerings
Our course offerings increase theological and ministerial capacities of Divinity School and University students.
Two
Certificate in Black Church Studies
Offering the opportunity for reflection, dialogue, and practice for students who are interested in the intersection of race and faith, particularly in the tradition of Black churches.
Three
Black Pastoral Leadership Collaboration
This initiative draws on original research from the Black church for the whole church — focusing on research, teaching, and convening.
Four
Lectures & Events
Networking and conversation help service learning and relationship cultivation, while exploring approaches to transform churches, organizations and communities.
“Studying at Duke Divinity has helped me to foster a particular fortitude, as my convictions, formed out of the Black church tradition, are brought into the discussion of the broader theological conversation.”
Orlander Thomas, M.Div. ’20