We teach, research, publish, and create experiences to nurture effective leaders for the church, the academy, and the world. We seek to enrich the work and witness of Duke Divinity School—with both theological and spiritual resources from Black Church contexts.

Upcoming Events

Join us for lecture series, worship events, conferences, and more.
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Latest News

Read the latest news and announcements from the Office of Black Church Studies.
April 2, 2026
At Duke Divinity School’s annual Jill Raitt Worship and Lecture, the community gathered to celebrate the life and work of Dr. Jill Raitt, who was a pioneering scholar and advocate for women in theological education.
February 24, 2026
Every Tuesday in February, the Divinity School celebrated the distinct contributions of the school’s alumni of African descent in the Sankofa Alumni Preaching Series.
February 17, 2026
Duke Divinity School welcomed Hawkins, director of the Office of Public Witness of the Presbyterian Church (USA), for “The Role of Faith in Public Life,” where he challenged attendees to consider how the church embodies its calling.

Our Programs

The Certificate in Black Church Studies aims to help strengthen the body of Christ through critical reflection, dialogue, and practice for those who are interested in the intersection of race, faith, and Christian witness, particularly in the tradition of Black churches. 
The Black Church Studies Fellowship program is designed for students pursuing the Certificate in Black Church Studies while enrolled in the residential Master of Divinity degree program. The program includes full-tuition scholarship and signature programming.
Learn about classes in Black Church studies that are intensely interdisciplinary, ecumenical, and intellectually inclusive.
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“Studying at Duke Divinity has helped me to foster a particular fortitude, as my convictions, formed out of the Black church tradition, are brought into the discussion of the broader theological conversation.”