CFEC Family,
As we reflect on the rich legacy of Black history, we are reminded that it is profoundly a story of faith, resilience, and the triumph of the human spirit anchored in God. It is a time to honor the men and women who faced unimaginable obstacles yet continued to press forward, holding tightly to the promises of the Lord.
The journey of African Americans through history is a powerful living testimony to the truth of Scripture. In the face of systemic adversity, we see a people who embodied the words of the Apostle Paul:
2 Corinthians 4:8-9 — "We are hard pressed on every side, but not crushed; perplexed, but not in despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed."
Through the darkest of nights, faith served as a guiding light. From fervent prayers to soaring spirituals that gave voice to a profound longing for freedom and justice, the history we celebrate is deeply interwoven with a steadfast reliance on God's deliverance. In this triumphant overcoming, we are reminded of another enduring promise:
Romans 8:37 — "No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."
As a church family, let us draw strength from this great cloud of witnesses. Let us celebrate the incredible contributions of Black Americans, and let their enduring faith inspire us to face our own daily challenges with grace, courage, and an unshakable trust in God's plan.
Peace!!
—Pastor Mike
Since African American History is celebrated during the month of February, it is fitting that Say What Now briefly explore the topic. African American History was celebrated for one week beginning in 1926, the entire month of February was designated African American History Month in 1976, and it became public law in 1986. Over the years many individuals, events, and discoveries of Black people have been forgotten, which is why this month's newsletter shares a few little-known facts.
Approximately one in four cowboys in the American West was Black. The legendary Deputy U.S. Marshal and formerly enslaved person Bass Reeves is believed to be the inspiration for the Lone Ranger — highlighting a major, often overlooked role of Black individuals in the westward expansion of the 19th century.
Submitted by Al Cordery
January 1–7, 1923: A white mob destroyed a thriving Black town in Rosewood, FL, after a white woman falsely claimed she was accosted by a Black man.
May 31 – June 1, 1921 — Tulsa Race Massacre: The Greenwood District of Tulsa, Oklahoma — known as "Black Wall Street" — was destroyed. Approximately 75 to 300 people died and more than 1,000 homes and businesses were demolished, including newspapers, churches, a library, hotels, banks, schools, theaters, and private airplane hangars. Thousands were left homeless.
July 29, 2017 — Silent Protest Parade: 10,000 people marched down 5th Avenue in New York City, organized by the NAACP to protest lynching, segregation, and white terror. Women and girls wore white; men and boys wore white suits.
Submitted by Michael Tucker, Sr.
In 1936, Victor Hugo Green — a New York City mailman — created the Green Book, a travel guide listing restaurants, hotels, and gas stations that accommodated Black travelers.
Eugene Bullard was the first Black American fighter pilot, a veteran of two world wars, and the only African American pilot in WWI.
The Tuskegee Airmen were African American military pilots trained at Tuskegee Institute during WWII. Of 1,000 pilots trained, they earned 96 Distinguished Flying Crosses, 14 Bronze Stars, and 3 Distinguished Unit Citations. Serving in the 99th Fighter Squadron and 332nd Fighter Group, their service significantly influenced President Truman's decision to desegregate the military in 1948.
Mary Eliza Mahoney became the first Black American licensed to practice nursing in 1879.
Phillis Wheatley was the first woman of African descent to become a published author, releasing a collection of poems in 1773.
James McCune Smith earned the first medical degree awarded to a Black American in 1837 and became the first Black person to own and operate a pharmacy.
Macon Bolling Allen was the first African American licensed to practice law in the U.S., passing the bar in Maine in 1844. He became the first Black justice of the peace in 1847 and helped establish the first Black law firm in 1848.
In February 1940, Hattie McDaniel became the first Black person to win an Academy Award, receiving Best Supporting Actress for her role as "Mammy" in Gone with the Wind.
In 1954, all Black residents in Jay, Florida were expelled from the city.
In 1924, the city of Manhattan Beach, CA used eminent domain to destroy a Black-owned resort known as Bruce's Beach.
Max Robinson was the first Black anchor on a major U.S. network, hired by ABC in 1969.
In 1950, Gwendolyn Brooks became the first Black American to win a Pulitzer Prize.
DeHart Hubbard was the first Black athlete to win an Olympic Gold Medal, earning it at the 1924 Paris Games.
Submitted by Denise Tucker
Sunday, March 14, 2026 — Assistant Pastor Anniversary Celebration
Christian Fellowship will celebrate the anniversary of our assistant pastor, Dr. Melissa Bolden, at CFEC during the afternoon service at 2:00 P.M. A guest pastor will be officiating. Please come out and join us in celebrating this well-deserving woman of God.
Daylight Saving Time — Sunday, March 8, 2026
Remember to set your clocks forward one hour at 2:00 A.M.
Building Fund Donations
Donations in the form of special assessments are still being collected for CFEC's Building Fund. These are in addition to your tithes, not a replacement. Whatever you can spare is greatly appreciated — it is only through God's continued grace and working together that CFEC can complete its dominion projects. You need not be a member to contribute. [REPRINT]
Contribute to the Newsletter!
Email your copy to top1sg1@gmail.com no later than the 20th of the month. Community events, member accomplishments, and all uplifting content are welcome. Please include a photo, your name, and a contact number if possible. It takes a village to make CFEC: Say What Now??? a success!
