Tindley Academy Winter Music Recital – Celebrating Talent and Growth

Tindley Academy students perform at San Francisco Conservatory of Music, December 8, 2024

We are so proud of our talented Tindley Academy students for their outstanding performances at last week’s Winter Music Recital, held at the San Francisco Conservatory of Music!

The recital was a testament to the dedication and artistry of our students as they showcased their musical progress through a diverse repertoire of songs, classical and holiday tunes –– “Jolly Ol’ St. Nicholas” and “Merrily We Roll Along” to Scott Joplin’s “The Entertainer.” Our students delivered performances that filled the room with energy and cheer.

After the individual piano recitals, our students came together to sing Moses Hogan’s “I Am His Child,” followed by a heartfelt finale of “This Little Light of Mine,” specially arranged by Tindley’s own Artistic and Program Director, James Parrish Smith. The ensemble radiated joy and unity, reminding us of the power of music to bring people together.

A huge thank you to Tindley’s staff, including Administrator Rev. Aimme Rogers-Jones, as well as the San Francisco Conservatory of Music and our dedicated network of teachers and supporters who make moments like these possible. Your unwavering commitment to our students’ growth and success shines brightly.

Tindley Academy is a music program and community that nurtures creativity, builds confidence, and empowers students to find their voice, both on and off the stage.

If you’re interested in enrolling your student in our next cohort, starting January 2025, we’d love to hear from you. Please call the church office at (628) 867-7075 to learn more.

Let’s continue to make music, inspire hearts, and light up the world—one note at a time!

Join Us Sunday, December 8, 2024 –– Tindley Academy Winter Music Recital

“If music be the food of love, play on.” –– Shakespeare, Twelfth Night 

We are excited to be counting down to Tindley Academy’s Winter Music Recital this Sunday, December 8, 2024!  Please join us from 2pm-4pm to listen to our current student cohort perform & celebrate their semester of learning. Doors open at 1:50pm. 

Recital details:

San Francisco Conservatory of Music

50 Oak Street, San Francisco, 94102

Doors open at 1:50pm PT

For any questions please contact the church office: (628) 867-7075

Holly-Lu-Jah Ho! Ho! Ho! Christmas Party –– Register by Monday, December 2nd, 2024

You are invited to our Third Baptist Church Youth & Family Christmas Party! 

Please join us on Friday, December 13, 5:30pm-7:30pm PT for games, food, and fun. We will also be hosting a Santa’s Toy giveaway for ages 4 to 14. Children under the age of 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Party details:

Third Baptist Church

1399 McAllister Street

San Francisco, CA 94115

Register by Monday, December 2nd, by scanning the QR code on the image or calling the church office at (628) 867-7075.

Tindley Academy of Music: Inspiring Young Minds Through Music

Tindley students visiting SF Jazz, October 2024

For over three decades, the Tindley Academy of Music has been a cornerstone of artistic, academic, and cultural enrichment for the youth of San Francisco's Western Addition. Initially established in the autumn of 1988 as an outreach ministry of Third Baptist Church under the leadership of Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, Tindley has grown into an independent nonprofit organization serving the broader community, focusing on inner-city youth. Named in honor of Charles Albert Tindley, a renowned gospel composer whose song "I'll Overcome Someday" became the foundation of the Civil Rights anthem "We Shall Overcome," the Academy continues to embody his legacy of resilience, hope, and empowerment through music.

A Holistic Approach to Music Education

At the Tindley Academy of Music, we believe music is more than just an art form—it is a vehicle for personal growth, character development, and community building. Our program is designed to provide tuition-free instrumental and vocal instruction for students aged 7 to 13, allowing children who may not otherwise have access to explore the world of music.

With expert guidance from instructors and partnerships under the direction of Rev. James Parrish Smith, who serves as Tindley’s Artistic Director as well as the leader of the San Francisco Conservatory of Music Bridge to Arts & Music (BAM), students learn fundamental music theory, vocal techniques, and performance skills. In addition to piano and voice lessons, our curriculum emphasizes the value of discipline, creativity, and self-confidence—qualities that extend far beyond the classroom. As students grow in their musical abilities, they also develop a sense of responsibility, teamwork, and leadership, which will serve them in all areas of life.

Rev. James Parrish Smith, Tindley’s Artistic Director, instructing students November 2024.

Why Tindley Matters

Tindley Academy is unique not only because of its high-quality music education but also because of its deep roots in African-American culture and traditions. The Academy offers a rich cultural learning environment that fosters a sense of identity and belonging for its students. At a time when the arts are often underfunded in schools, Tindley fills a critical gap by providing a space where young people can explore their heritage, express themselves, and be part of a supportive, faith-centered community.

For many of our students, music is not just a hobby—it’s a lifeline. By allowing children to engage in meaningful, creative activities, Tindley offers an alternative to the challenges they may face in their everyday lives. Our program instills a sense of purpose and self-worth, helping students realize their potential and encouraging them to pursue their dreams in music or any other field.

What Students Learn

At Tindley, students receive comprehensive music education that includes:

• Instrumental and Vocal Training: Students learn to play instruments like the piano and develop their vocal abilities through structured lessons.

• Music Theory: Understanding the building blocks of music is crucial to mastering any instrument or voice, and our curriculum ensures students are well-versed in these fundamentals.

• Performance Skills: Students gain confidence through public performances, learning how to present themselves and their talents to an audience.

• Cultural and Historical Context: The Academy emphasizes the role of music in African-American history and culture, helping students connect with their heritage while gaining a global perspective.

Plans for Growth and Expansion

As we look toward the future, Tindley is expanding its program to include additional instruments and genres, jazz and Indigenous African percussion. This expansion will allow us to serve more students and introduce them to a wider variety of musical traditions, enriching their experience and broadening their cultural awareness. By late Fall 2024 / early Winter 2025, we hope to offer private lessons, giving our students even more individualized attention and opportunities to grow.

In addition, Tindley has set its sights on even greater opportunities for its students, with plans to perform at significant events in the coming years. With continued support, Tindley will remain a beacon of hope and creativity for generations to come.

Tindley students making music, November 2024.

Holiday Concert: Sunday, December 8, 2024, 2:00pm -4:00pm PT

Please mark your calendars for Sunday, December 8, 2:00pm-4:00pm PT when our current student cohort will be celebrating their semester of learning with a holiday performance! Details:

San Francisco Conservatory of Music

50 Oak Street, San Francisco, 94102

Doors open at 1:50pm PT

Get Involved

If you are interested in enrolling your child for January 2025  or learning more about the Tindley Academy of Music, please contact the Third Baptist Church office at (628) 867-7075. We welcome inquiries from parents, community members, and potential supporters who share our vision of empowering youth through music.

At Tindley, we are not just teaching music; we are shaping future leaders, building character, and creating a stronger community. By investing in the arts and providing a safe, nurturing environment, we are giving children the tools they need to thrive.

Thanksgiving: A Time to Give and Receive

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat.” – Matthew 25:35

As Thanksgiving approaches, we are reminded of the importance of gratitude, compassion, and community. It is a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives and extend kindness to those around us.  At Third Baptist Church, we believe in embodying these values through action, inspired by our mission to serve with love and compassion.

This Thanksgiving, we are honored to continue our tradition of giving through our Feed the Hungry ministry. Dedicated to providing nourishment and hope to those facing food insecurity, Feed the Hungry is an expression of our commitment to service.

As part of this ministry, we are offering Thanksgiving Boxes to families in need. These boxes, filled with groceries and essential resources for a holiday meal, are available to one household per family. This small gesture is a reminder that in challenging times, none of us has to walk alone.

Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones and also an opportunity to ensure that others can experience the joy and comfort of the season. 

If you or someone you know could benefit from a Thanksgiving Box, please contact the Third Baptist Church office at (628) 867-7075. 

Happy Thanksgiving from all of us at Third Baptist Church.

Celebrating the Roots of Third Baptist Church and Founder Eliza Davis

As we celebrate the remarkable legacy of Third Baptist Church, we honor the spirit of its founder, Eliza Davis, who would have turned 234 years old this past October 12th. Established in 1852, Third Baptist Church holds the distinction of being the oldest predominately African American church in the Western United States. Through over 170 years of faith, service, and social justice, Third Baptist has served as a beacon of hope and strength for generations. This legacy of resilience, rooted in Eliza Davis’s vision and spirit, has shaped not only the church but also the larger community. At a time when the importance of female leadership is recognized around the globe, the church’s foundation—built on the strength of a woman who overcame enormous odds—reminds us of the transformative power of female vision and entrepreneurship.

The Life and Legacy of Eliza Davis: From Slavery to Leadership

Eliza Davis's life was a testament to resilience and determination. Born on October 12, 1790, in Albemarle County, Virginia, Davis was a woman who lived through more than a century of American history. She bore witness to sweeping changes, from the days when steamboats had yet to navigate the rivers of St. Louis to the era of California's Gold Rush and into the dawn of the modern world. As a mixed-race woman born into slavery, her early years were marked by struggle and survival. From a young age, she faced hardships, yet she held onto her strength and her faith.

Through sheer tenacity, Eliza, alongside her husband, Russell Davis, made the journey to California in 1852. Her journey to freedom and her determination to lead is reminiscent of another towering figure of her time—Sojourner Truth. Truth, in her famous speech "Ain't I a Woman?", questioned society's limited view of women's strength and value. Like Truth, Davis carved her own path in a world that sought to limit her. In a time and place where few African American women held positions of influence, Eliza Davis broke through barriers, founding Third Baptist Church and establishing it as a spiritual and communal sanctuary. Her life embodied resilience, adaptability, and a fierce commitment to her beliefs—qualities that laid a strong foundation for the church she would lead.

Third Baptist Church: A Legacy of Service and Social Justice

From its inception, Third Baptist Church was a place of worship, a pillar of support for the community, a force for justice, and a symbol of unity. Under Eliza Davis’s leadership, the church grew to become a place where people from all walks of life could gather, find solace, community, safety, and fight for justice. For 172 years, the church has been at the forefront of human rights initiatives, continually responding to the needs of its community. Today, Third Baptist Church is a testament to that legacy. The church’s ministries are deeply rooted in service and advocacy, addressing issues of inequality, education, and social welfare. Through over 20 active ministries, Third Baptist provides support to the community in countless ways, from youth education programs to social justice initiatives that continue to confront inequality and oppression. This focus on service and justice has been the lifeblood of the church, sustaining it through turbulent times and keeping it relevant and vital to each new generation.

A Call for Female Leadership 

Eliza Davis’s legacy is a reminder of the importance of female leadership and the value that women bring to positions of influence. Her role as the founder and leader of Third Baptist Church demonstrates the impact that women can have when they are given the space and support to lead. Today, as we reflect on Davis’s accomplishments, we see a call to action for the broader world to embrace female leadership and entrepreneurship.

Around the world, we see an increasing recognition of the need to invest in female leadership. Women bring unique perspectives and strengths to leadership roles, often focusing on community building, inclusivity, and empathy—qualities that are essential in today’s complex world. Eliza Davis’s story serves as a powerful example of how one woman’s leadership can create lasting change. In celebrating her legacy, we are reminded that investing in female leaders is not just about fairness; it is about enriching our institutions and our communities.

Carrying the Torch: Third Baptist Church Today

Today, Third Baptist Church continues to build upon the foundation that Eliza Davis established. The church’s current leadership remains committed to the principles of social justice, service, and faith that have guided it for over a century and a half. Third Baptist already, by 1996, had ordained nearly 20 female deacons, and since its founding, has established interfaith collaborations and programs such as Back on Track, founded in 1988 as an interfaith collaborative effort between Third Baptist Church and Temple Emanu-El in San Francisco. The unique partnership has crossed religious and cultural differences to build bridges of opportunity for K-12 students. As a non-denominational community-based program, Back on Track has served more than 2,000 young people from diverse, multicultural populations throughout San Francisco, bounded by intelligence and a desire to succeed academically.

Third Baptist leadership has extended its impact beyond the local community, supporting global initiatives such as the Ethiopian Resettlement Project, the Somali Relief Effort, and even heart surgeries for Tanzanian children. By reaching out to communities in need worldwide, Third Baptist has become a force for good that stretches beyond San Francisco, embodying the values of compassion and justice that Eliza Davis held dear.

In addition to our global outreach, the church has continued to foster strong community connections through partnerships with organizations like the NAACP and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Together, they have sponsored cultural exchanges, educational opportunities, and historical programs, most recently supporting a second delegation of students traveling to Accra, Ghana. These initiatives reflect the church’s commitment both to local and global communities, embracing a vision of inclusivity and service that Davis would have been proud to see.

The Enduring Spirit of Joy and Faith

At the heart of Third Baptist Church’s work is a spirit of joy and faith that has sustained it through the ages. This joy, deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus, is a powerful testament to the church’s enduring legacy. For 172 years, the church has embraced joy as a guiding principle to inspire hope, motivate action, and bring people together. As Eliza Davis once trusted in her faith to carry her through life’s hardships, so too does the church continue to draw strength from this joy, sharing it with all who enter its doors.

Today, as Third Baptist continues to grow and evolve, it does so with a deep sense of gratitude for the journey that has brought it here. This joy is not just a feeling; it is a testimony to the faith, resilience, and community that have defined the church since its founding. As we move forward, we give thanks for this journey and for the legacy of Eliza Davis, whose vision and courage laid the groundwork for all that Third Baptist Church has become.

Standing Together: Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown and the Fight to Preserve the Dream Keeper Initiative

In a recent press conference, Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown and members of San Francisco's Black faith community and their allies, gathered to celebrate the life of long-time friend Rev. Arnold Thompson and his work to defend the Dream Keeper Initiative. This program, designed to address systemic inequalities, has faced scrutiny, prompting a unified response from leaders advocating for its continued impact on marginalized communities. For Third Baptist Church, this moment reflects its enduring mission of justice, inclusivity, and equity, while underscoring Dr. Brown’s legacy as a tireless advocate for racial and economic justice in San Francisco.

Rev. Dr. Amos C. Brown, Third Baptist Church

The recent press conference held in support of San Francisco's Dream Keeper Initiative highlighted the significance of standing by the Black community during a time of increasing scrutiny and challenges. The Dream Keeper Initiative was launched in February 2021, following the racial reckoning after George Floyd’s murder, to shift funds away from law enforcement and invest in Black communities in San Francisco. 

Archbishop Gregory Richardson, San Francisco Bay Area International Trade Educational Chamber of Commerce, video recording the press conference. 

The Dream Keeper Initiative (DKI) is a citywide effort to invest $60 million annually into San Francisco's Black communities. The DKI is part of Mayor London N. Breed's plan to address structural inequities and reform public safety. The initiative's goals include: 

• Creating employment opportunities 

• Awarding Black-led and Black-serving organizations 

• Implementing services that advance the initiative's goals 

• Addressing racially disparate policies 

• Breaking the cycle of poverty and involvement in the criminal justice system 

• Ensuring that new investments are accessible to families in need 

The DKI aims to ensure that San Francisco's Black communities are thriving, healthy, and advancing educationally and economically. However, the program has come under fire with questions raised about the use of funds and calls for an audit. Reverend Dr. Brown’s presence and endorsement signal a critical moment of solidarity within the community, advocating for continued support despite the controversies surrounding the program.

Rev. Beverley Phillips, Third Baptist Church

This press conference was vital because it showcased the deep-rooted connections and partnerships within San Francisco’s Black community, including Reverend Dr. Brown’s long-standing friendship with the late Rev. Arnold Thompson, whose sudden passing has left an emotional sting on the community and gap in leadership fighting for justice and equity.  Their joint efforts to stand by the Dream Keeper Initiative demonstrate an unwavering commitment to uplifting the city's marginalized populations despite setbacks. This support reinforces the necessity of programs like Dream Keeper that aim to invest in economic and cultural initiatives for Black residents, especially in the face of criticism and audit investigations.

By lending his voice and influence, Reverend Dr. Brown is calling for the community to rally behind efforts that protect the legacy of programs designed to address systemic inequities. This moment emphasizes the importance of unity, accountability, and transparency in ensuring that these initiatives continue to benefit those for whom they were intended. The press conference further stressed the need to protect gains made for the Black community, while holding leaders accountable for the program's effectiveness​.

Please see the following stories, with further press stories to be published:

Black faith leaders rally to support S.F. equity program under fire, SF Chronicle

Eliminating Dream Keeper Initiative would be yet another broken promise, SF Examiner

Welcoming Reverend Devon Jerome Crawford: A Visionary Leader Preaching at Third Baptist Church Sunday, October 6, 2024

This coming Sunday, October 6, Third Baptist Church of San Francisco invites you to a special worship service featuring Reverend Devon Jerome Crawford, an esteemed candidate for our Executive Pastor position. Reverend Crawford will deliver the guest sermon during our 10:00 AM service, bringing with him a wealth of experience in both ministry and social justice.

About Reverend Devon Jerome Crawford

Reverend Crawford currently serves as the National Executive Director of the Multifaith Initiative to End Mass Incarceration (EMI), an organization founded by Senator Raphael Warnock and based at the historic Ebenezer Baptist Church in Atlanta, Georgia. Under Reverend Crawford’s leadership, EMI has united faith communities across the nation to combat mass incarceration through training, advocacy, and direct action.

Beyond his work with EMI, Reverend Crawford is the Campus Minister at Morehouse College’s Martin Luther King Jr. International Chapel. There, he guides the next generation of faith leaders, nurturing their growth in both spirituality and social justice.

He was born and raised in Birmingham, Alabama, baptized at New Pilgrim Baptist Church and later licensed to preach at Sixth Avenue Baptist Church. He was ordained into Christian ministry at Myrtle Baptist Church in West Newton, Massachusetts, where he served as minister for social justice and acting assistant pastor. He is an honors graduate of Morehouse College, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, holds a Master of Divinity degree from the University of Chicago Divinity School, and is pursuing a doctoral degree in practical theology and moral leadership at Boston University School ofTheology.

A Legacy of Leadership

Reverend Crawford’s leadership extends beyond the walls of the church. He previously served as the inaugural Staff Director for the William Monroe Trotter Collaborative for Social Justice at Harvard Kennedy School, where he led initiatives focused on voting rights, criminal justice reform, and race-equitable responses to the COVID-19 pandemic. His advocacy for justice has been evident in high-profile cases such as those of Troy Davis, Trayvon Martin, and Michael Brown, garnering national attention for his activism grounded in non-violence.

Reverend Crawford’s early work includes collaborating with the NAACP on a nationwide millennial voter campaign, a partnership with Chance the Rapper. He has also been honored as an Oprah Winfrey Leadership Fellow and a John Lewis Fellow. His writings have appeared in The New York Times and The Washington Post.

Join Us for a Morning of Faith and Fellowship

This Sunday’s service promises to be a powerful time of worship, reflection, and community. We encourage all members and visitors to attend, whether in person or via live stream, to hear Reverend Crawford’s inspiring message. His dedication to ministry and justice, coupled with his deep spiritual insights, will undoubtedly resonate with all who join us.

Deacons Alphonso Campbell and Anthony Wagner, co-chairs of the Executive Pastor Search Committee, extend a warm invitation to the entire congregation: “We are excited for the congregation to hear from Reverend Crawford. His vision for faith-based leadership aligns with our mission at Third Baptist, and we look forward to this opportunity for everyone to meet him.”

Mark Your Calendars for Sunday, October 6, 2024, 10:00 AM

Mark your calendar for Sunday, October 6, 2024, at 10:00 AM, and join us at Third Baptist Church of San Francisco to experience this meaningful service led by Reverend Devon Jerome Crawford. For those unable to attend in person, a live stream will be available on our Third Baptist Church website.

For more information, please contact the Third Baptist Church office at (628) 867-7075 or visit www.thirdbaptist.org.

Celebrating Faith, Fellowship, and Milestones: The Senior Ministry at Third Baptist Church, San Francisco

We believe in honoring and nurturing every stage of life. The Senior Ministry at Third Baptist Church is a vibrant community where seniors can find both spiritual sustenance and social engagement. Under the leadership of Ms. Catherine Bradford, the ministry focuses on supporting the spiritual, social, and emotional needs of our seniors. Ms. Bradford, who has been at the helm for several years, is passionate about creating a space where seniors feel valued. Through its activities and programs, the Senior Ministry ensures that our elders continue to lead fulfilling, faith-filled lives, enriched by deep connections and meaningful experiences.

Every Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Nelson Hall at Third Baptist transforms into a lively hub for our Senior Center. Seniors come together to enjoy a hot lunch, participate in engaging activities, and spend quality time with new and old friends. The weekly gatherings feature a range of activities designed to cater to the interests and needs of our senior members, from inspiring guest speakers to fun board and card games, and birthday celebrations.

Join Us in Fellowship

The Senior Ministry at Third Baptist Church is always welcoming new members. If you are a senior seeking a place to grow in your faith, connect with others, and enjoy a supportive community, we invite you to join us every Wednesday. With activities that inspire and a community that uplifts, our Senior Ministry is a place where everyone is cherished and valued. Senior rides are available for those who need assistance with transportation. 

For more information, please contact the church office. We look forward to welcoming you into our family.

Third Baptist Church Office: (628) 867-7075

Third Baptist Church Hosts Urgent Gathering to Confront Recent Anti-Black Racism in San Francisco Bay Area

On September 5, 2024, Third Baptist Church of San Francisco brought together law enforcement officials, city leaders, faith communities, citizens, and victims of recent attacks to address a disturbing rise in anti-Black racist incidents across San Francisco and the Bay Area. Led by our Third Baptist Pastor Reverend Dr. Amos C. Brown, also President of the San Francisco NAACP, the gathering rallied people overnight and emphasized the urgent need for collective action against hate crimes targeting Black communities.

A Call to Action Against Hate

"Nothing is more powerful than an idea whose time has come." ― Victor Hugo

Reverend Brown framed his introductory remarks with a quote from Victor Hugo that represents the power of coming together to unite and stand against hate crimes, with the message that such crimes will be met with criminal action and counteracted with the forces of justice.

The event highlighted a surge in racist graffiti, verbal assaults, and vandalism, including the defacement of the Youth 1st building—a nonprofit after-school program—with racist slurs and a noose hanging on its door. 

"These are deliberate attempts to spread fear and hate,” stated Supervisor Ahsha Safaí. “We must confront these incidents head-on to ensure our city remains a safe place for all."

Personal testimonies from victims underscored the impact of these hate crimes. Wendy Drew shared her experience of enduring racial slurs and being physically attacked, still bearing a black eye from the incident. Cara Harbor recounted the distress her children faced when racial slurs were hurled at them in an East Bay private school, where the perpetrator was initially expelled but later allowed back in. Christiana Porter, mother of five, described what it felt like to be violently arrested by police officers after being wrongfully stopped for jaywalking; Renard Monroe, Executive Director of Youth 1st, a youth non profit center in San Francisco's Lakeview neighborhood, described finding his building defaced with hate slurs and a noose hanging from a door knob. 

Terry Williams, a beloved dog walker in the Alamo Square neighborhood, received threatening packages with racist messages including a doll with a noose around its neck, and his Alamo Square house subsequently destroyed in a fire, rushing to evacuate his elderly parents who were trapped in the house.

Commitment to Justice

Reverend Brown spoke of not tolerating public policymakers "only giving a cotton-candy response to reparations” and apologies without follow-up action.

District Attorney Brooke Jenkins committed to holding perpetrators accountable, prosecuting those who commit hate crimes to the fullest extent of the law. “San Francisco is a city of diversity, inclusion, and justice, and we will fight to maintain these values."

Police Chief William Scott emphasized collaboration with community leaders and law enforcement agencies. FBI Special Agent Robert Tripp spoke of these crimes as an assault on humanity and safety as a fundamental human right. Civic and legal leaders assured that every incident is being thoroughly investigated and that the partnerships we have in the city will keep us safe and bring justice and accountability. 

Addressing the Growing Crisis

The rise in hate crimes against Black communities challenges San Francisco's core values of progressiveness and social justice. According to California Attorney General Rob Bonta, anti-Black hate crimes are the most prevalent form of hate crime in the state. The gathering at Third Baptist Church was not just a response to recent incidents but a broader appeal for unity and justice.

Reverend Brown underscored the urgency of action: "The danger of leaving these incidents unchallenged and unpunished is enormous. We must stand together as a community to repudiate these actions, to find and punish the perpetrators, and to ensure that such occurrences do not happen again."

Moving Forward: Building a Community of Peace and Love

The meeting concluded with a powerful call to action for all San Francisco and Bay Area citizens. Attendees were encouraged to report any incidents of hate, stay vigilant, and work within their communities to foster understanding and solidarity. Initiatives proposed included increased community policing efforts, educational programs in schools, and continued partnerships between faith groups and law enforcement to build trust and collaboration.

One speaker urged, "We must teach kindness and forgiveness. We need to make each school safe, teach love and peace, and show our children to count to ten before they act out of extreme emotion." The emphasis was on proactive measures to create environments where hate cannot thrive and where every individual is treated with dignity and respect.

Reverend Brown captured the spirit of the gathering: "This is not just a fight for our Black community; it is a fight for the soul of our city. Every San Franciscan has a role to play in standing against hate, speaking out against injustice, and ensuring that our city remains a place where all are welcomed and valued."

The event at our Third Baptist Church served as a critical reminder of the ongoing battle against racism and the necessity of unified action. It highlighted the need for all sectors of society—government, law enforcement, community leaders, and everyday citizens—to come together to combat hate and build a more inclusive and just community.

As attendees left the church, the message was clear: the fight against racism is far from over, but together, we have the power to create meaningful change. For updates on future events and ways to get involved, please visit our Third Baptist Church website or contact us directly: (628) 867-7075

The power of a prayer chain is the power of a voter chain

Join us at Third Baptist Church in a national effort for civility, peace, and truth.

We are fighting for a democratic America –– real, and enlightened.

The one specific challenge that faces America in our national election is urgent, and can and only will be met through fervent prayer and keeping hope alive.

I am asking all to pray, beginning today and for the next 100 days, that God will deliver us from any crisis or carnage around this national election. Please create your prayer circle and pray three times of the day without failure. Again, I ask of you, whisper a prayer in the morning, at noontime, and when the sun goes down in the evening.

Please call on ten others in your circle to pray, and for ten of their contacts to do the same.

In turn, each of us reading this post, in our outreach to ten in our circle, and their outreach to ten others in theirs, also extending to the vote.

I am calling on each person to ensure they are registered to vote, and to extend the request to ten in their circle, and their ten, exponentially.

We must follow the path of reason, and critical thinking, not of fear, unfounded and irrational.

We all want to be someone who puts other people first, and ten in our circle to do the same, and ten in theirs.

And so on.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.