NAD Black History Month Message: President G. Alexander Bryant Gives a Special Message to the NAD

On February 7, President G. Alexander Bryant of the North American Division (NAD) of Seventh-day Adventists gave a special message for Black History Month. In a short video, Bryant began by reflecting on the past year and the challenges that it has presented, especially regarding the racial tension and division that the nation has been experiencing. However, he stated that the celebration of Black History Month this year is especially important because of this, saying, “Black History Month is just that-it is the history of a people, my people, Black people, their journey, their struggles, their disappointments, their contributions, and their triumphs. It is history.”

Bryant suggested celebrating Black History Month in a different way this year, a way that opens doors for communication, understanding and growth. He challenged church members, saying, “[F]ind someone to tell your story to-someone who is not like you. Perhaps ask someone who is not like you about their story. And listen, just listen. I mean really listen and reflect. Allow it to marinate, and let the Holy Spirit impress your heart and mind from what you hear. Then maybe you can share your story, and each person can listen to the other without judgement, or condemnation. But just listen to each other.”

Bryant went on to encourage people to recognize every individual’s equal and unique value in the eyes of God. “Perhaps the reminder that we’re all His children-red, brown, yellow, black and white-all precious in His sight, might bring about a commonality of our humanity, a brotherhood and a sisterhood that will give this world what it sorely needs: an example of the love of God that is lived out in your life and in mine,” he concluded.

At the end of the message, Bryant finished with a final appeal to the members of the church, saying, “May God help each of us to be [an] instrument of peace in our community, in our world, and in our church. And may we use this month to remind us that we are all God’s children. Precious in His sight.”

Hannah Olin is a sophomore

history education major from

Princeton, Ill.