Over the past 50 years, the church scene in many parts of Britain has experienced dramatic changes. One of the most striking and significant is the growth and multiplication of Black majority churches and other churches comprised mainly of members from the Caribbean, Africa, Asia or Latin America. Many other churches have also received new members from these backgrounds, some who have come as immigrants, others who were born here.

These developments have been exciting but also challenging. Not all have felt welcome in churches with a dominant ethnicity or culture. Not all new churches have thrived. Many are struggling to reach out beyond their own ethnic group or to hold on to their children. Efforts at partnership and mutual learning have often floundered. Overt and institutional racism has been evident. And yet the potential is huge for mission and church renewal!

The Black Light course, run by Urban Expression and Ascension Trust, offers an opportunity to explore and reflect on this scenario. It is hosted on Zoom meetings format, and each session is run in an interactive way including break-out rooms and time for questions to the speakers at the end. There are no assignments or in-course study required, and no preparation needed prior to commencing the course, however there is a recommended reading list provided to complement the speaker sessions.

Discounted places are available for groups booking together and reduced fees are payable for those who are unwaged or on low incomes.

The course is next running beginning on 4th May, you can find out more about the content of the course, speakers and hosts at www.blacklightcourse.uk