James A. Forbes facts for kids
James Alexander Forbes, Jr. is a well-known American minister. He was the Senior Minister Emeritus (meaning he retired from the main leadership role) of the Riverside Church. This church is in New York City and welcomes people from many different Christian groups, including American Baptist and United Church of Christ.
Rev. Forbes made history as the first African American minister to lead this diverse church. He served the congregation for 18 years, from 1989 to 2007.
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Early Life and Education
James Forbes, Jr. was born in Burgaw, North Carolina. His parents were James and Mabel Clemmons Forbes. His family later moved to Goldsboro, North Carolina and then to Raleigh, where he grew up.
College and Ministry Calling
Forbes attended Howard University in Washington, D.C.. He studied Chemistry and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in 1957. While in college, he felt a calling to become a minister in 1956.
He continued his education at Union Theological Seminary in New York City. He completed his Master of Divinity Degree in 1962. Later, in 1975, he earned a Doctor of Ministry Degree from Colgate Rochester Divinity School in Rochester, New York. This was after he had already started working as a pastor and teacher.
Rev. Forbes became an ordained minister in two different church groups: the American Baptist Churches and the Original United Holy Church of America.
Career and Leadership
From 1976 to 1989, James Forbes taught people how to preach at Union Theological Seminary. In 1985, he became the first person to hold the Joe R. Engle Professor of Preaching position. Even after he became the senior minister at Riverside Church, he continued to teach as an adjunct professor. Dr. Forbes also teaches at Auburn Theological Seminary in New York.
Leading Riverside Church
On June 1, 1989, Rev. Forbes became the fifth Senior Minister of the Riverside Church. He took over from Rev. William Sloane Coffin. This was a very important moment because Forbes was the first African American to lead one of the largest and most diverse churches in the United States.
The Riverside Church is located between the Morningside Heights and Harlem neighborhoods. It is known for its welcoming spirit to people from many different backgrounds and Christian traditions.
Community Involvement
Rev. Forbes helped the Riverside Church become very involved in community work.
- He supported Pernessa C. Seele's efforts to start the Harlem Week of Prayer for Healing. This event helped communities of faith address public health issues. It grew into a national movement.
- He also helped Riverside Church play a role in improving the Harlem area. They worked with other churches in a group called Harlem Congregations for Community Improvement.
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Rev. Forbes was known for his powerful and inspiring way of preaching. His sermons attracted many new members to the church.
He also took part in events that discussed important topics like "restorative justice." This is a way of dealing with problems that focuses on repairing harm and bringing people together.
On June 1, 2007, after 18 years, Rev. Forbes retired from his position at Riverside Church. He then became the president of the Healing of the Nations Foundation. This organization focuses on healing and spiritual renewal across the country.
Other Work
Rev. Forbes hosted a radio show called The Time Is Now. It was broadcast on the Air America Radio network until July 28, 2007.
He is also a member of two fraternities: Chi Phi and Alpha Phi Alpha.
Family Life
James Forbes, Jr. is married to Bettye Franks, who is from San Antonio, Texas. They have one son, James A. Forbes III.
Awards and Recognition
Rev. Forbes has received many honors for his work and leadership:
- 2010: He was given the "Ossie Davis Human Rights Lifetime Achievement Award." This award recognizes people who have worked hard for human rights.
- 2003: He was featured in a special TV program called Speaking to Power: A 'NOW With Bill Moyers' Special Edition on PBS.
- 1996: In a worldwide survey of seminary professors and religious editors, Forbes was named one of the "12 Most Effective Preachers" in the English-speaking world.
- 1993 and 1984: Ebony magazine recognized him as one of the greatest Black preachers in the United States.
- He also received the Alumni Charter Day Award from Howard University for his outstanding achievements in ministry after graduation.
