Christian Community Networking

Ramon Roane

Commentary 

When I started this website, I wanted to make a positive impact in the body of Christ in particular among the African American Christians. This is a segment of the body of Christ that is in need of some serious attention, unlike any other group. There is nothing wrong with this approach, because the example was set in the scriptures. Paul’s ministry was directed towards the Gentile Christians. Peter’s ministry was directed towards the Jewish Christians. The book of Matthew was written to the Jewish Christians and the book of Mark was written for the Gentiles. There has been serious damage to the African American family in this country and there is a need for it to be addressed in the body of Christ.

The history of the African American family started in Africa where the family unit was fundamental to their society, as with all societies. The marriage then was of a high degree of stability. The marriage was not only between the man and woman, but between the two families. The mother was responsible for child rearing, but she shared this with many members of the family. The child having many mothers gave them a strong sense of social responsibility in the child’s early years. The husband to be must consult with the elders to make the necessary customary negotiations and discuss issues and pay the bride’s wealth with the approval of the wife to be. It becomes the obligation for members of both families to ensure that the marriage is successful.

In 1607, the above mentioned was stolen from the African by the induction into slavery in America. Most immigrants came to this land freely, but not the African. Slavery was their lot for 258 years. In 1866, the slaves were freed and this brought legalized racism in the form of discrimination and Jim Crow laws for 98 years, until 1964. This totals for the African American family 357 years of legal bondage. The start of welfare in 1930 was another form of bondage, though it helped feed and housed the mother and children, it was a negative impact on the family structure. The African American man was shut out by the government with the institution of welfare and discrimination. Having no father in the home creates an imbalance in the family and this affects our society.

I grew up with a father and mother, who have been married for nearly fifty years. I am close to both of them and I would not want have experience not having one of them. I have seen the effects of having no father in the home in the lives of my family and friends. I am blessed to have my dad all of my life. Honestly, he is not Cliff Huxable of the Cosby Show, the perfect father, but he has always been there for his wife, my mother and their 8 children. I have taken this issue to heart because there are many that have not experience what I have and I want to change that for the ones that are coming behind me.

I believe that if you are going to point to a problem, you should come with a solution. Since, I have given you a brief history lesson; I would like to offer a solution. The black Christian church has the answer to the problem and it is in the bible. God has been pro family from the beginning of our creation. Most of our churches are not using what word of God to instruct the congregation on the institution of the family.

I will be writing on this subject as a series on my blog. I would hope that I could get you to participate on this subject. Our homes are in need of help and your voice is needed. Join us in this critical discussion.

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