Ep 19 - The Black Church and America’s Most Uncomfortable Truth | Rev. Dr. Angela D. Sims

In this episode of The Ministry Exchange, Rev. Dr. Angela D. Sims shares the moral and theological convictions that have shaped her leadership as President of Colgate Rochester Crozer Divinity School and as a leading voice in Christian social ethics. With scholarship forged through deep study and lived faith, Dr. Sims reflects on the formation that began long before she could name it—from sitting beside her grandmother in church to rigorous theological training at Howard University and Union Presbyterian Seminary. Drawing from her groundbreaking work in Lynched: The Power of Memory in a Culture of Terror and her study of Ida B. Wells, Dr. Sims explores how memory functions as ethical responsibility—not nostalgia. She challenges the Church to confront racial terror as both historical reality and present tension, and to resist the temptation to separate faith from justice. Through womanist theology and disciplined moral reflection, she offers a framework for leadership rooted in courage, truth-telling, and hope. This conversation explores: How memory shapes moral imagination and public witness Why confronting America’s history of lynching is a theological obligation The role of womanist ethics in forming resilient, justice-centered leaders Leading a seminary through crisis, transition, and institutional change What it takes to form pastors who can preach, organize, and serve beyond the sanctuary For pastors, scholars, and ministry leaders, Dr. Sims offers a compelling vision for a Church that refuses amnesia, embraces accountability, and forms leaders capable of carrying hope with integrity and courage. Support the show Thanks for tuning in to The Ministry Exchange with Dr. Mapson Where real conversations meet real ministry. 🎙️ Enjoying the podcast? Support the show ⬇️ https://www.buzzsprout.com/2456465/su... 🎙️ The Ministry Exchange with Dr. Mapson is powered by MinistryForward Media Group, helping churches and leaders grow through media, strategy, and leadership tools. 📲 Stay Connected: Follow us on Instagram & Facebook: @ministryfwd / @drjwmapson Visit our website: www.ministryfwd.com (coming soon) Watch episodes on YouTube: Search “The Ministry Exchange with Dr. Mapson” Want to collaborate or sponsor an episode? Reach out at: [email protected] This episode is proudly sponsored by Terry Funeral Home Inc. For over 85 years, Terry Funeral Home has walked with families through life’s most sacred moments, offering care, dignity, and excellence when it matters most. Learn more at terryfuneralhome.com. This episode is also supported by our Silver Partner, Palmer Theological Seminary. Whole Gospel. Whole World. Whole Persons. Palmer equips leaders for transformative, justice-centered ministry through theological depth and holistic formation. Learn more at palmerseminary.edu.