Social Justice Ministry | First Baptist Church Highland Park

Introduction

‘Social Justice’ is the fair, equitable distribution of rights, opportunities, and resources in society, focusing on ensuring equality for all, particularly marginalized groups. It aims to correct systemic imbalances in wealth, health, and legal treatment. “If a man doesn’t have a job or an income, he has neither life nor liberty nor the possibility for the pursuit of happiness. He merely exists.” ~ Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. (Poor People’s Campaign)

Mission Statement

We seek to equip and mobilize the congregation to live out the Gospel by advocating for justice, equity, and human dignity in our church, community, and society. Grounded in the biblical call to “do justice, love mercy, and walk humbly with God” (Micah 6:8), the ministry educates, encourages, and provides options for members to engage with community and grassroots organizations to address systemic inequities, support the oppressed, and promote policies and practices that reflect God’s righteousness and compassion.

History

The Social Justice Ministry (SJM) was established in May 2019 to expand the efforts of its predecessor, the Social Action Committee, to include the invaluable tool of partnering — with FBCHP ministries, sister churches, and grassroots organizations — for the purpose of community uplift through social justice activism, education, engagement, and mobilization.

COMMUNITY FORUMS & OUTREACH

The second non-partisan Voter Registration, Education, and Mobilization Training was convened in March. Participation in the training allowed eligibility for registrants to receive an official certificate from the Board of Elections. The event served as a vital platform to encourage congregants and others to get involved during this year’s election cycle.

2026 BLACK HISTORY MONTH WORSHIP SERVICE

UNSHAKABLE: The Contribution of Black Sacred Music to Our Continuing Struggle for Justice

The Social Justice and Music & Worship Arts Ministries partnered to present a spirit-filled journey through time. Through powerful narration, music, and dance, this event served as a meaningful worship experience that (1) highlighted the ongoing struggle of Black people for justice, (2) celebrated our many achievements, and (3) encouraged us to remain committed to securing a better future for our descendants as well as protecting our democracy. To view this worship experience, click UNSHAKABLE or copy and paste this link in your browser: https://youtu.be/TWtDYCTUkx8

2025 COMMUNITY FORUM

Next Steps: Navigating the Threat to Democracy and the Current Constitutional Crisis

This community forum was moderated by and proudly featured presentations by respected, knowledgeable, and trusted faith and community leaders, academicians, and public officials. What evolved was a meaningful and timely dialogue focused on protecting democratic principles in today’s political environment. To view the entire forum, click NEXT STEPS 2025 or copy and paste this link in your browser: https://youtu.be/WN6i9ZtnDE4?t=63

Scripture Reference:

Luke 4:18-19 (NLT) – The Spirit of the LORD is upon me, for he has anointed me to bring Good News to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim that captives will be released, that the blind will see, that the oppressed will be set free and that the time of the LORD’s favor has come.

Officers, Subcommittees, and Chairpersons:

Dr. Rachel Boyd – Social Justice Minister and President/Programs Chair
Audrey B. Chase, MSW – Vice President/Communications Chair
Audrey Lucas – Secretary/Virtual Platform Subcommittee
Vera (Quincey) Worsley – Secretary/Virtual Platform Sub-Committee
Wanda Rogers – Treasurer

Monthly Meeting: 4th Thursday via Zoom at 7:00 pm

ORGANIZATIONS WORKING FOR CHANGE:

Ministry Contact & Information

For more information about Social Justice Ministry, contact the Church Administrative Office at (301) 773-6655 or send an email to soci-just-ministry@fbchighlandpark.org