For this year’s Black History Month I have been studying “Forgotten Giants”, or heroes of my people that are not so well known. One of them is a statesman named Pierre Caliste Landry, who was the first elected Black Mayor in American history. Like me he was of Creole stock and Louisiana born, and was also ordained within a Protestant tradition. Though starting out enslaved he went on to lead in government, and even helped to establish an early HBCU.

If Presbyterians had patron saints, then mine surely would be the Rev. Landry. Nevertheless, I can find inspiration in his example and pray to have the faithfulness and love that he displayed. Here is my prayer in honour of his blessed memory. Please feel free to use and share it with the proper acknowledgements.

Almighty God, Who calls humble souls to Your great service, we thank You for the calling of Your servant Pierre Caliste Landry. From the halls of plantations to the halls of Church and government, he displayed a care for all people including those against him. Lord, in this uneasy time, much like when Landry lived, give us a peace and rest through Your sure faithfulness and love. And make us here and now more faithful and more loving, that we might be agents of peace and help others to find rest. Through Jesus Christ we pray. Amen.