In the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio, we believe that we cannot tell the story of our faith with integrity if we do not seek to understand how faith has been lived and experienced through the lives of people of African descent. Black Episcopalians have transformed and shaped the witness of our church and continue to add to the legacy of our diocese and the national church.
This ministry strives to amplify, celebrate, and champion the unique heritages, contributions, and legacies of people of color in the diocese. It also supports the flourishing and increased collaboration of Historically Black Congregations in the diocese and seeks to equitably share in integrity, love, and relationship the faithful witness of our Black parishioners, congregations, and communities. Black Ministries support the diocesan strategy for multicultural and multi-regional approach to mission.
What is a Historically Black Congregation?
Historically Black Congregations (HBCs) are congregations that were specifically established to serve the needs of Black Episcopalians and their communities. Historically, many of these congregations were started has safe havens for marginalized communities as they experienced bigotry, disenfranchisement, and harm in the form of institutional and systemic racism from other Christian communities including barriers within their own Episcopal demonomination. They represent a distinct legacy and cultural heritage and continue to share the gifts of their resilient witness to all people.They remind each of us that God’s table is a welcome table for all.
Historically Black Congregations have been founded all across the United States, and add to the diversity found within our Episcopal tradition. HBCs represent the breadth, width, and depth of both our Anglican heritage and the unique rhythms, cultures, and heritages of African diasporic traditions.
Meet our Historically Black Congregations
The diocese currently has four HBCs, located in Cincinnati, Columbus and Dayton.
Ministries, events and offerings
Absalom Jones Celebration- Annually our diocese celebrates the feast day of the first African American priest in the Episcopal Church to remember our commitment to racial reconciliation and justice.
Black Ministry Institutes– Annually our missioner hosts institutes for clergy and lay leaders to share resources and wisdom about ministry in their contexts.
Quarterly Prayer Breakfasts– Every year each of our Historically Black Congregations will host a quarterly prayer breakfast to share in fellowship and prayer for each other’s ministries and communities.
The Selah Family Sabbath-An annual family retreat for historically Black congregations and their families that welcomes them to a week of sacred rest and reflection.
Meet our Missioner for Black Ministries
The Rev. Aaron Rogers joined the bishop’s staff in June 2025. Contact Aaron to …
- Develop or enhance ministries, programs, activities, or events that directly serve, celebrate, or touch the lives of Black parishioners or communities
- Raise a concern or need on behalf of an underrepresented community/parish in our diocese.
- Learn about and develop congregational resources for your Historically Black Congregation
- Share and amplify stories that highlight important aspects of our diocese’s racial history or the need for racial justice NOW
If you would like to invite Father Aaron to visit your congregation or schedule a consultation with your vestry, please contact him here.
Diocesan groups supported by the Missioner for Black Ministries
Please join the diocese’s Black Ministry Network group on Facebook for resources and to see how HBCs are living out God’s calling in the Episcopal Diocese of Southern Ohio.
Episcopal Church Resources
For other resources from The Episcopal Church that support individuals of African Descent and their congregations, please check out the African Descent Ministries page at https://www.episcopalchurch.org/ministries/african-descent-ministries/
