HAWKINS, TX — Jarvis Christian University will commemorate Black History Month with a powerful worship experience during its annual Black History Chapel, scheduled for Tuesday, February 25, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. in the historic Smith-Howard Chapel. The university is honored to welcome Rev. Dr. Michael W. Waters as the featured speaker for this year’s celebration.
A prophetic voice for justice, healing, and reconciliation, Dr. Waters is a nationally recognized pastor, author, and public theologian whose ministry and activism speak to the intersection of faith, race, and social change. His message is expected to both inspire and challenge the Jarvis community to reflect on the enduring legacy of Black history while envisioning a future grounded in equity, hope, and transformative leadership.
Dr. Waters is the founding pastor of Abundant Life African Methodist Episcopal Church (AME) in Dallas, Texas, a vibrant congregation he began with his wife and a few friends in 2010. Since its founding, Abundant Life AME has become known for its dynamic worship, social outreach, and commitment to building bridges across lines of race, class, and culture.
An award-winning author and thought leader, Dr. Waters has penned several acclaimed books, including Stakes Is High: Race, Faith, and Hope for America and Trouble the Water: A Christian Resource for the Work of Racial Justice. His writings have appeared in numerous national publications, and he is a frequent speaker at universities, churches, and conferences across the country. Dr. Waters' work has been featured by NPR, CNN, The New York Times, and The Washington Post, among others.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Southern Methodist University (SMU), as well as Master of Divinity and Doctor of Ministry degrees from SMU’s Perkins School of Theology. Throughout his ministry, Dr. Waters has been at the forefront of movements for racial justice, police accountability, voting rights, and educational equity.
“Rev. Dr. Waters brings a message rooted in deep theological conviction and an unwavering commitment to social justice,” said Rev. Dr. Sedaric Dinkens, Director of Church Relations and Campus Pastor at Jarvis Christian University. “His presence during our Black History Chapel will serve as a meaningful reminder of the role faith continues to play in shaping the struggle for Black liberation and the pursuit of justice in our world.”
The Black History Chapel is a signature event of the university’s Black History Month observance, honoring the faith, resilience, and cultural contributions of African Americans throughout history. It also reflects Jarvis Christian University’s ongoing commitment to spiritual formation and cultural awareness.
The event is free and open to the public. Community members, local clergy, and area students are encouraged to attend.
For more information about the Black History Chapel or to explore other upcoming events at Jarvis Christian University, visit www.jarvis.edu or contact the Office of Institutional Advancement at advancement@jarvis.edu.
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