Celebrating Black History Month at Good Shepherd, Mobile, AL

 by Kris Branch, member of Church of the Good Shepherd, Mobile

Each Sunday during the month of February, Good Shepherd joyfully celebrates Black History Month by honoring our rich heritage and recognizing both past and present members whose faith, leadership, and service have shaped our church and our community.

This year, we had the privilege of celebrating Dr. Angenia Clark, President of Fisk University. Dr. Clark was an active member of Good Shepherd’s EYC during the 1970s. This vibrant group of young people went on to successful careers in medicine, engineering, education, and the military. Their experiences together included bowling, a ski trip and a trip to the Bahamas. Notably, Dr. Clark was also the first female acolyte at Good Shepherd.

We also honored Dr. E. B. Goode, a longtime and devoted member of Good Shepherd, with the screening of Medicine and the Movement: The Story of Dr. Escous B. Goode of Alabama. This powerful documentary highlights the life and legacy of one of Mobile’s earliest and most prominent African American physicians, whose courageous work helped desegregate hospitals, schools, and buses during the civil rights movement.

In addition, we celebrated the rich history of the Mobile Area Mardi Gras Association, honoring its cultural legacy and significance. We are privileged to have a former Queen and King of Mardi Gras, along with several individuals who proudly participated in the Mardi Gras Court as faithful members of Good Shepherd. 

We can’t celebrate Black History without celebrating our cherished tradition of soul food. Our fellowship continues around the table as we dine on fish and grits, with each member bringing their favorite soul food dish to share. These meals reflect our history, our love, and the deep bonds that unite us as a church family.

We will conclude the month with a musical recital in loving memory of Mrs. Sadie Fields Braggs, a lifetime member of Good Shepherd, and her father, Mr. Frank Fields, who faithfully served as Senior Warden for many years. Their legacy of devotion, service, and faith continues to inspire our congregation.

We are Black History, and we are blessed each Sunday as we worship together—giving thanks, honoring our ancestors, and recommitting ourselves to love and serve the Lord.