In the African American tradition, preaching is central to the worship service, and black preaching distinguishes itself from other forms by using a style that is meant to move the listener to respond. Using techniques such as whooping and call and response, black preaching is about style, performance, and eliciting a feeling, and in its best form does more than entertain or use theatrics to conceal a lack of study. Though other groups may employ these techniques, they developed out of the African American contemporary experience and history and function as both calls of lament and cries for justice in light of the community’s struggles. The heritage and experience of black preaching calls for its continued and valuable use in the African American community.
The Institute for Cultural Engagement, an official program of Multnomah University and Biblical Seminary