Youth take the lead at Bear Creek’s Black History Month celebration

Regina Gainous Dukes
Gadsden County News ServiceThe youth of Bear Creek Bethel Missionary Baptist Church took center stage Sunday, Feb. 8, leading a well-orchestrated Black History Month program that blended history, faith and creativity while reminding the congregation that the future of the church is already shining.
Held on the second Sunday of the month — a day traditionally dedicated to youth leadership at Bear Creek — the program reflected the church’s long-standing commitment to nurturing young voices. Pastor Terrence D. Milton, known for his enthusiasm for youth engagement, encouraged the children to “let their light shine” as they led nearly every aspect of the service.
“Scripture reminds us to ‘train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old, he will not depart from it’ (Proverbs 22:6),” Milton said. “What you saw today is that verse in action — our children learning who they are, whose they are, and the legacy they are called to carry forward.”
The program opened with Sister Batina Slater, youth director, serving as master of ceremonies and setting a welcoming and joyful tone. The youth choir then moved the congregation with a stirring rendition of the Black National Anthem, “Lift Every Voice and Sing.” Wynter Lewis followed with the opening prayer, and Kailan Jones delivered the scripture reading.
Jasmyne McKievor presented the welcome and occasion, offering a brief but thoughtful overview of Black history and its origins. From there, the children brought history to life by spelling out the words “BLACK HISTORY,” with each letter representing a notable person or place that played a pivotal role in African American history. Speakers reminded the audience that African American history is American history — honored in February, but remembered and celebrated 365 days a year.
Audience participation was a highlight of the program as the congregation joined in two rounds of Gadsden County History Jeopardy. Led by Sister Slater, the interactive segment featured clues spotlighting local Black history makers, including Dr. LaSalle Lefalle, Sheriff Morris A. Young, Judge Cathy Gardner, Tax Collector Tonjii Wiggins-McGriff and others.
The youth then performed an original skit titled Our History. The presentation combined humor, historical insight and biblical references, drawing both laughter and reflection from the audience.
The program concluded on an upbeat note as the children sang “Grateful to You,” leaving the congregation energized and inspired. Remarks from the youth directors and Pastor Milton followed, affirming the importance of youth leadership in preserving history and shaping the future.
The celebration ended with a sweet treat as the children recessed to the fellowship kitchen for ice cream, closing a program that was both meaningful and memorable.