Landmark Book on the Black Baptist Legacy

In honor of Black History Month, Judson Press proudly announces the availability of A History of the Black Baptist Church: I Don’t Feel No Ways Tired by Rev. Dr. Wayne E. Croft Sr., a groundbreaking work that chronicles the rich heritage and enduring influence of the Black Baptist tradition.

This meticulously researched volume offers readers an unparalleled look at the origins, struggles, and triumphs of the Black Baptist church from its beginnings in the hush harbors of slavery to its pivotal role in shaping African American identity, social justice movements, and theological thought. Dr. Croft, a respected pastor, scholar, and professor, combines historical depth with pastoral insight to create a resource that is both scholarly and accessible.

Why This Book Matters

• Unveils Hidden History: Explore the “Invisible Institution” and the rise of       independent Black churches.

• Highlights Key Movements: From the Great Awakening to the Civil Rights era, learn how Black Baptists shaped American religious life.

• Honors Unsung Heroes: Discover the contributions of Black Baptist women and leaders who fought for equality and justice.

• Bridges Church and Academy: Ideal for seminarians, clergy, and lay readers seeking to understand the roots and relevance of the Black Baptist tradition.

Praise for the Book

Noted historian and author, Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. of Harvard University, calls it “a meticulously researched and compelling history,” while Rev. Dr. Otis Moss III describes it as “a beautiful book written for the church and the academy.”

About the Author

Rev. Dr. Wayne E. Croft Sr. serves as Pastor of St. Paul’s Baptist Church in West Chester, Pennsylvania, and is the Jeremiah A. Wright Sr. Associate Professor of Homiletics and Liturgics at United Lutheran Seminary. His life and ministry have been deeply shaped by the Black Baptist tradition, which he celebrates and documents in this essential work.