First Church of Winsted to hold Black History Month service

WINSTED — On Sunday, February 17, at 10:00 AM, First Church of Winsted, at 95 Park Place, will celebrate “Black History Sunday” worship on Sunday at 10 a.m., “in our hopes to become a more culturally inclusive congregation,” members said in a statement.

“It seems appropriate to hold this service because 2019 is the 400th anniversary, or more accurately, the 400th tragi-versary of slavery in the United States,” members said.

The church plans to commemorate Black History Month with the singing of contemporary music by “Muddy Boots,” with the musical Storrs family; and the spiritual “Give Me Jesus” sung by Elder Deborah Prescott. Additionally, guest musician Dr. Ruth Bass Green will play service music, including “Some Sunday,” a jazz piece composed by the legendary Duke Ellington; and another spiritual, “Go Down Moses.”

The sermon will be preached by interim pastor Kenric A. Prescott, a.k.a. “Pastor Kap,” titled “Faith In The Forge” using Exodus 14:10-14.

“Considering the faith traditions of the African American church are intended to provide First Church with an introduction to the cultural and spiritual background behind the experience of the African American church; where their “celebrations” serve as reminders of the horrific challenges out of which they came,” members said. “Traditionally, during the month of February, African American congregations across the nation celebrate their history by singing Negro Spirituals, Gospels, and Anthems composed by African Americans.”

“The sermon will raise some critical questions: “What do you know about the value and meaning of sacred music of the Black church?” “Have you ever wondered why there is a Black church and a White church?” “Why aren’t there more integrated congregations?” “Have you ever heard Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s oft-quoted statement that “at 11 on Sunday morning when we stand and sing and Christ has no east or west, we stand at the most segregated hour in this nation.’”

Contributed photo First Church of Winsted located at 95 Park Place, will celebrate “Black History Sunday” during its 10 a.m. service. Above, Elder Kenric Prescott, is joined by members of the interim search committee; Frank Artruc, Kim Janak, Jay Nanni, Ashley Fontanez and Daniel Jones. Not pictured is Holly Cassaday.