Celebrating Black History Month: A Story of Gratitude, Partnership, and Hope

FRESNO, Calif. — As the Central California Conference commemorates Black History Month, I had the privilege of speaking with Alonzo S. Wagner III, Black Ministries Director and pastor of Fresno Westside Adventist Church. His message to CCC families was both reflective and forward-looking, rooted in gratitude, collaboration, and a deep reliance on the Holy Spirit.

Pastor Wagner recently reflected on conversations with two of our senior pastors, Pastor Ted Jones and Dr. Taylor, both 93 years old. Their memories stretch back decades in this conference. One truth they consistently emphasize is that the growth of Black congregations—and the development of church facilities, Bible studies, and evangelistic initiatives—was never accomplished in isolation.

“It was collaboration,” Wagner shared. “Black, White, Hispanic, and Asian believers working together.”

Black History Month, he explained, is not a celebration marked by exclusivity. Rather, it is observed with deep appreciation for the diverse cultures and partners who helped build what we now enjoy. While we highlight the ways God has specifically blessed Black ministries, we do so while recognizing that the journey has always been shared.

At Fresno Westside, that shared history is tangible. Members from other ethnic backgrounds played an important role in helping construct the church building. Today, the congregation continues to celebrate not only Black History Month but also Hispanic and Asian heritage, honoring the full diversity of God’s family.

That spirit of partnership extends beyond celebration—it shapes ministry.

One significant relationship is with WestCare, an official California organization that provides group counseling and recovery support for individuals facing addiction and other life challenges. A WestCare facility is located right next to the church. Over the past several years, dedicated members of Fresno Westside have consistently offered Bible studies to individuals participating in recovery programs at WestCare. Those faithful, relational efforts have borne fruit. Several baptisms have resulted from these studies, including 10 this year alone.

“What’s amazing,” Wagner said, “is that they are staying. They feel at home.”

Many of these new members first connected with the church during some of the lowest points in their lives. Through compassionate relationships, courageous conversations, and a willingness to address social realities rather than avoid them, they discovered not only spiritual hope but also a family. “We must be a voice not just for African Americans,” Wagner emphasized, “but for anyone facing injustice.”

Another visible expression of partnership is the church’s community garden. Through a collaboration with a local Hispanic organization, Fresno Westside leases a portion of its land for agricultural use. Together, they maintain a thriving community garden where crops are grown and shared. The garden has become both a practical blessing and a bridge between cultures, a living symbol of cooperation and stewardship.

The church’s impact continues to ripple outward. One of the newly baptized members, Reuben, shared his faith with his fiancée, Joanna. She also chose baptism. On March 7, during divine worship, the church will celebrate their wedding, uniting a Hispanic and Filipino-Hispanic couple who are choosing to build their home on Christ.

For Pastor Wagner, Black History Month ultimately points to something greater than history. It points to mission. “We have financial challenges,” he acknowledged. “But if I have a choice between finances and the Spirit, I will take the Spirit every time. I can do more with the Spirit than I can with money.”

As CCC families reflect this month, may we celebrate not only the progress God has allowed us to make, but also the unity, courage, and Spirit-led ministry that continues to shape our future.

Written by Bryan Bong