Throughout its history, the Black church has been instrumental as a center for refuge, religion, and Black empowerment. Our churches have always been a place for spreading the Gospel, but we also relied on them as foundations for growing our social justice movements and cultivating voices empowered to fight racial injustice.
We believe that today’s Black church can play just as pivotal a role in inspiring social change. Clergy members and congregations across the Mid-South are mobilizing to advocate for economic progress, end harsh justice policies, and serve the common good. As the Black Clergy Collaborative of Memphis, we are focused on leading the resurgence of the Black church as a beacon for social justice.
About BCCM
Who We Are
Our Mission
At the Black Clergy Collaborative of Memphis, our mission is to unite and empower the Black church as a catalyst for social justice. We believe that the Black church has a unique role to play in advancing economic empowerment, advocating for criminal justice reform, and promoting civic engagement. We are committed to fostering a supportive network of clergy and congregations, cultivating voices of leadership and empowerment, and building a more just and equitable democracy for all.
Our Vision
Our members have a genuine commitment to leveraging the powerful voice and position of today’s Black church to ignite a new social justice movement – one centered around undoing the harmful legacies of racial inequality and promoting policies that mitigate the deep consequences of wealth inequality in the Black community.
Comprised of some of the most prominent religious leaders and congregations from across Memphis and Shelby County, BCCM is focused on empowering our membership and promoting dialogue to achieve that vision.
Board of Directors
Rev. Dr. J. Lawrence Turner, Founder & President
Senior Pastor, Mississippi Boulevard Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
Rev. Dr. Earle Fisher PH.D, Director
Senior Pastor, Abyssinian Missionary Baptist Church
Shirley Bondon
Executive Director
Rev. Dr. Gina Stewart, Director
Senior Pastor, Christ Missionary Baptist Church
First Woman elected to lead Lott Carey Baptist Foreign Mission Society
Rev. Dr. Karren Todd, Director
Memphis Theological Seminary, House of Black Church Studies, Director
Rev. Darell Harrington, Secretary
Senior Pastor, New Sardis Baptist Church
Bishop Linwood Dillard, Treasurer
Senior Pastor, Citadel of Deliverance, Church of God in Christ
Join Us
The Black Clergy Collaborative of Memphis (BCCM) comprises members who work together to address systemic issues affecting Black communities in the United States. To become a member of the Black Clergy Collaborative, please fill out the form below. A member of our team will contact you within seven business days to discuss your committee interests and answer any questions you may have.