The Bible in Black & White is a successful, collaborative Bible Study that began in 2022 and brings together people of diverse backgrounds for a month-long Bible study, conversation and community building. The study was begun by the Rev. Dr. Bill Lee, a Black retired pastor who spent 39 years as pastor of Loudon Avenue Christian Church before retiring in 2016, and the Rev. Dr. George Anderson, a White preacher who has served as Senior Pastor of Second Presbyterian Church since 1998. Since its beginning in 2022, the study has grown to include seven local sponsoring churches—four historically Black congregations and three historically White congregations.
Those who attend The Bible in Black & White are a unique community of people of different races and religious traditions. They gather to learn, but also gather to form relationships that promote healing within our community. Come join us.
The four-to-six-week study takes place every fall and spring in the Fellowship Hall of Second Presbyterian Church. All are welcome to attend.
Spring 2025
“What Are They Doing Here?”
Wednesdays, March 5, 12, 19 & 26 | 12:00 P.M. | Fellowship Hall
Some books in the Bible are about a specific person. What makes these stories so compelling is that they often center on individuals who live on the margins—people whose lives seem insignificant in the eyes of the powerful, yet matter deeply to God. These are the stories of God’s powerful work among the powerless.
During the noon hour on March Wednesdays, the Bible in Black & White class will explore four of these narratives, seeking to understand what God sees in these individuals—and in all of us. Drs. Bill Lee and George Anderson, along with ministers from other sponsoring churches, will guide the discussion.
- March 5: Ruth
Two widowed Moabite women are a problem. It is the time of Judges and there are turf battles everywhere. With no one to protect or provide for them, Ruth and Naomi rely on and take care of each other. Why are they in the Bible?
- March 12: Esther
She’s an immigrant married to Ahasuerus, the Persian king. He chose to marry her for her beauty. He did not know that she was of the same race as the people his most powerful advisor sought to expel from Persia. Why is she in the Bible?
- March 19: Daniel
The Jews are in Exile. Daniel is one of many who have been deported to Babylon. Like many Jews in Exile, he finds a way to be useful to those in power. Sometimes, though, he gets abused because of the offense of his race and beliefs. Why is he in the Bible?
- March 26: Philemon
The book of Philemon in the New Testament is a letter from Paul. The letter is written to Philemon and concerns his slave, Onesimus. Paul wants Philemon to accept Onesimus back and see him as a brother in Christ. So what? Why is this letter in the Bible?
If your church is interested in sponsoring this series, or if you would like to be added to The Bible in Black & White email list, contact Meredith Koliba.