Posted on: 23rd October 2026

People from across the diocese gathered at Wakefield Cathedral for a special Black History Month Eucharist Service, held under the theme "Honouring Our Communities" on Saturday, October 10.

The service began with uplifting music from members of the Huddersfield Community Gospel Choir, who set a joyful and celebratory tone for the service. Through prayer, scripture, music and reflection, including readings and prayers offered by the diocesan Racial Justice team, the congregation gave thanks for the diversity and contributions of Black and Global Majority Heritage communities within the diocese and wider society.

The sermon was preached by the Revd Dr Garfield Campbell, an ordained priest in the Diocese of Jamaica and the Cayman Islands since 2009. Dr Campbell holds a PhD from the University of Leeds and currently serves as a Research Associate at the Scottish Episcopal Institute, where his work explores the legacies of slavery, colonialism and the Church's role in historical learning, commemoration and reconciliation. Dr Campbell reflected on the enduring impact of slavery, systemic racism and inequality on Black and other Global Majority Heritage communities. 

Drawing on Exodus, Dr Campbell spoke of the midwives Shiphrah and Puah’s resistance and ingenuity to counter the injustice of Pharaoh. He acknowledged the barriers and injustices experienced over generations, both within society and the Church, while encouraging continued commitment to racial justice, inclusion and belonging. He concluded by emphasising that the Church has a responsibility to ensure that all God's people are able to flourish.

The Rt Revd Malcolm Chamberlain, Bishop of Wakefield, shared greetings from the diocese's link in Tanzania, including a message from Bishop Moses of the Diocese of Rorya. The Revd Canon Dr Erik Peeters also brought greetings from the Diocese of Erfurt in Germany. The Rt Revd Smitha Prasadam, Bishop of Huddersfield, presided at the time of Holy Communion in the service.

The service concluded with a moving rendition of the hymn He Has Done Marvellous Things, Praise the Lord by the choir, whose singing brought the memorable celebration to a close.

Bishop Smitha said: “This service was a celebration of heritage, resilience and the remarkable individuals whose contributions continue to inspire our communities, while challenging us all to build a future rooted in justice, belonging, and hope.”

The first Diocese of Leeds annual Black History Month service was in Bradford in 2025, and the next one is already being planned for Leeds, as the gathering aims to travel around each Episcopal Area.