Dr. Charisse L. Gillett, LTS President, and Rev. Tanya J. Tyler, LTS Director of Communications, collaborated with more than 30 African American leaders, both ordained and lay, to create Melodies of Faith: An Advent Devotional for African American Churches and Families, now available from Chalice Press.
“Dr. Gillett was inspired to create this devotional when she attended the General Board meeting of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ),” said Rev. Tyler, who served as editor of the devotional and also contributed a Christmas Eve service. “When she contacted Brad Lyons, President of Chalice Press, and asked if there were any devotional specifically for African American congregations and families, he was intrigued, but he warned us it would have to have a quick turnaround to be ready by December of this year. Dr. Gillett and I created a list of possible writers and sent them invitations to participate. We actually beat our deadline.”
Dozens of faith leaders of color wrote devotions from an African American point of view with sacred (and some secular) holiday music as the connecting theme. Focusing on the warmth, joy, and profound spiritual insights of the Advent, Christmas, and Epiphany seasons, this unique devotional collection weaves together cherished memories, beloved hymns as well as contemporary tunes, and reflective meditations by esteemed scholars, ministers, and lay leaders. It is more than a devotional; it is a journey through the heart of the holiday seasons, designed to deepen your faith and bring your family closer together.
“The music is in conversation with the scripture, and our prayer is that both are in dialogue with your individual and collective faith journeys,” Dr. Gillett wrote in the introduction.
Each devotional is like a little present, building the anticipation of “Which song is this about?” Melodies of Faith invokes everything from the spiritual “Go Tell It On the Mountain” to Nat King Cole’s “The Christmas Song” and even the Charlie Brown kids. The stories take us to Christmas worship and to a grandfather’s house in the deep darkness of the Mississippi Delta at night.
“We hope that after you read each entry, the song of the day accompanies you through your work, your relaxation, and your reflection,” said Brad.
Readers can engage with scripture and music that celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of the African American church. Thought-provoking reflection questions encourage meaningful conversations at home and in church communities. Place your order at www.chalicepress.com.