Justice Center for Sacred Theological Studies

10/07/2026

The Justice Center for Sacred Theological Studies mourns the passing of our faithful alumnus, Rev. Wayne Anthony Steele, Sr. (in the middle), who joined the Church Triumphant on September 28, 2026, at the age of 69.

A graduate of Johnson C. Smith Seminary at the Interdenominational Theological Center, Rev. Steele devoted his life to ministry and service. He served congregations across Alabama, Georgia, and Kentucky, including Peace Presbyterian Church in Louisville, where he served as pastor for more than two decades before retiring in 2023.

Rev. Steele will be remembered for his servant’s heart, faithful leadership, and loyal friendship. We give thanks for his life, ministry, and lasting witness.

Our deepest prayers and condolences are with his family, friends, congregation, and all who mourn his passing.

His funeral will be held on Thursday, October 8, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at St. Charles Avenue Presbyterian Church, 1545 State St., New Orleans, LA 70118.

May he rest in power and peace. 🕊️

~The Justice Center

10/02/2026

https://pcusa.org/news-storytelling/news/2023/6/13/longtime-pcusa-pastor-rev-wayne-steele-sr-announces-retirement?fbclid=IwdGRjcAUs-rlleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBwZG9mAWZkaWQWUPhhcO27O-u6HtCRjnNn3IzoaMfqTnNydGMGYXBwX2lkCjY2Mjg1NjgzNzkAAR6sY5M8USTytAbz0-9ZEgtFehbzwABYMziRWEvU05LQOiupeOXJGYbGZvjNjQ_aem_5ttgASkX8bx5DdOfj8p75Q

Peace Presbyterian Church has had the Rev. Wayne Steele’s number since 2000. It’s 4210. And don’t ever forget it.

09/04/2026

"Earth is what we’ve got right now.”

Why put Earth before Heaven?

In this Day1 interview clip, Rev. Dr. Katie Givens Kime and Rev. Paul Roberts explore what it means to take seriously the life and world before us, not simply what may come after.

As Rev. Roberts recalls his late father saying: “Live in the space where you are right now.”

What might that mean for the way we live our faith today?

Explore Episode 4250: https://day1.fm/4250

07/03/2026

At JCSTS, learning is more than information—it is formation.

As we approach the 4th of July 🇺🇸, we encourage a reflective and honest space for what this day represents. For many, it is a celebration of freedom and national ideals. At the same time, it is also a reminder that those ideals have not been experienced equally across all communities—particularly in the historical and ongoing experiences of Black Americans, for whom independence has often existed alongside the realities of enslavement, segregation, and continued struggles for justice.

We name this complexity not to diminish the day, but to deepen our understanding of freedom itself—its promises, its gaps, and the ongoing work of making liberty truly lived.

We gather to think deeply 🤔, listen carefully 👂🏾, and engage the world with faith that leads to action ✊🏾. In every course, conversation, and gathering, we are shaping a community committed to justice, compassion, and thoughtful transformation.

Whether you are beginning your journey or continuing it, you are welcome here 🤎.

This is sacred learning for a changing world.

06/26/2026

🎉 Thank You, JCSTS Learners! 🎉

So far this year, 300 learners have participated in courses through the Justice Center for Sacred Theological Studies.

As we celebrate this milestone, we also look ahead to new opportunities for learning and growth. Please look forward to upcoming certificate programs, workshops, or special learning events from us! JCSTS remains committed to providing accessible, justice-centered theological education for all. Now is the perfect time to get involved—all JCSTS classes are FREE through October 30th.

Your commitment to learning, reflection, and community engagement strengthens our shared mission of faith, justice, and transformation. Every learner contributes to a growing movement dedicated to creating a more just and compassionate world.

✨ 300 learners
📚 Growing opportunities
🤝 One community of faith, justice, and lifelong learning

Thank you for being part of the JCSTS learning community. We look forward to continuing this journey together and welcoming new learners along the way.

06/19/2026

🖤❤️💚 This Juneteenth, we remember June 19, 1865, when freedom was finally proclaimed to more than 250,000 enslaved Black people in Texas––two and a half years later.

For the Church, Juneteenth is more than a historical remembrance. It is a proclamation of liberation, a celebration of resilience, and a renewed commitment to justice.

We remember the waiting—
The long silence between promise and proclamation.

We remember the fields—
Where songs carried hope through sorrow.

We remember the day—
When freedom finally spoke its name.

And now, O God—
Make us freedom’s voice.

As we honor the past, may we continue the work of equity, justice, and liberation in our communities today.

06/18/2026

🌿 Looking Toward Juneteenth 🌿

On June 19, 1865, Union troops arrived in Galveston, Texas, to enforce the emancipation of enslaved people—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had already been issued. That delayed announcement of freedom continues to shape how Juneteenth is remembered as both liberation and a summons to reckon with the long work of justice.

This Pride Month, the Justice Center invites our community to reflect on Juneteenth as part of the ongoing story of freedom in the United States. It calls us to remember that emancipation was not a single moment of change, but the beginning of a continuing struggle for dignity, truth, and repair.

For people of faith, this day also calls us to honest reflection. The story of freedom is not only something we remember—it is something we are still called to live into.

Looking for a way to engage locally?

🎓 JCSTS Course Recommendations: Juneteenth: Faith, Justice and Freedom
Women in Ordained Ministry: History and Theology
Black Women in Christian Ministry
Human Resilience: The History of our Adaptability
https://www.jcsts.org/programs

🎉 Stonecrest Celebration – June 20
https://www.stonecrestga.gov/m/newsflash/Home/Detail/222?

As we approach Juneteenth, may we hold memory and responsibility together—honoring what has been endured while working toward what is still being made whole.

Take advantage of our special promotional discount on Justice Walkers, available now through June 22nd.

🔥 $50 OFF for a limited time! 🔥

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06/16/2026

The Justice Walkers are more than footwear; they are a symbol of purpose, perseverance, and the belief that every path toward a better future starts with the courage to move forward.

Justice is not just a destination—it’s a journey. And every journey deserves the right pair of shoes.

Take the next step. Walk with purpose. Walk with hope.

👟 Walk in Justice Walkers.

Take advantage of our special promotional discount on Justice Walkers, available now through June 22nd.

🔥 $50 OFF for a limited time! 🔥

🎟️ COUPON CODE: [JUNETEENTH2026]

06/16/2026

The Justice Walkers are more than footwear; they are a symbol of purpose, perseverance, and the belief that every path toward a better future starts with the courage to move forward.

Whether you’re walking through your neighborhood, attending community events, exploring historic sites, or simply going about your daily routine. Justice Walkers serve as a reminder that our actions matter.

Justice Walkers celebrate the ongoing pursuit of freedom, dignity, and human flourishing. They invite us to reflect on where we’ve been, consider where we’re going, and walk intentionally toward the world we hope to create.

Justice is not just a destination—it's a Journey. And every journey deserves the right pair of shoes.🚶🏾‍♀️

Take the next step. Walk with purpose. Walk with hope.

Walk in Justice Walkers.

For a limited time, take advantage of our special promotional discount on Justice Walkers, available now through June 22nd.

⏳$50 OFF for a limited time! Don’t miss your chance to save before the promotion ends!

🎟️ COUPON CODE: [JUNETEENTH2026]

06/14/2026

🇺🇸 Flag Day Reflection — June 14 🇺🇸

This Flag Day, the Justice Center invites our community to reflect on the meaning carried by the flag raised across our nation.

Many have looked to it as a sign of democratic promise and belonging. For others—especially Black Americans across generations—it has also pointed toward promises that remain unfulfilled. Together, these experiences sit within the nation’s ongoing story of aspiration and struggle.

People of faith are reminded that civic symbols carry moral weight. They ask us what kind of community we are forming and whether the dignity of all people is being upheld in practice as well as in principle. The Christian witness often requires both gratitude for what has been given and honesty about what is still broken.

On this day, we give thanks for the ideals that continue to call the nation forward. We also renew our commitment to justice and repair, so that the image of God in every person is not only spoken of but protected in lived reality.

“Do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly with your God.” — Micah 6:8