At Perkins School of Theology, the pursuit of social justice is more than an academic ideal—it is a spiritual imperative rooted in the Gospel’s call to liberation, justice, and beloved community. Juneteenth, the day in 1865 when the last enslaved people in the U.S. learned of their freedom, holds deep resonance within a theological framework. This moment embodies the tension between delayed justice and enduring hope.
To deepen this reflection, we spoke with alumni—Rev. Dr. Anthony Everett (M.Div. ‘08), Rev. Katie Pryor (M.Div. ’19), Minister Christian S. Watkins (M.Div. ’19), and Rev. Dr. Michael W. Waters (M.Div. ’06, D.Min ’12)—whose work bridges faith, activism, and Black liberation theology.
In celebration of Juneteenth, Perkins is proud to highlight these remarkable alumni whose ministries embody the prophetic spirit of this historic day. Each is actively shaping a more just and compassionate world—through preaching, organizing, advocacy, storytelling, and leadership. Their stories are rooted in faith and lived out in communities across the nation.
We invite you to explore their stories in the links below, reflect on their witness, and be inspired to continue the work.
Each featured alum is a change-maker:
· Rev. Dr. Anthony Everett is advancing contextual theological education and advocating for returning citizens in Kentucky. Read the full spotlight here.
· Katie Pryor is nurturing women’s faith, leadership, and collective power through a ministry rooted in justice, storytelling, and sacred community. Read the full spotlight here.
· Rev. Dr. Michael W. Waters is using the power of preaching, writing, and public witness to call for truth, healing, and justice. Read the full spotlight here.
· Minister Christian S. Watkins is organizing faith communities in pursuit of racial and economic justice. Read the full spotlight here.
“Juneteenth is Jubilee — a sacred proclamation of freedom that calls us to liberate and transform.”
— Rev. Dr. Michael W. Waters
These leaders are living out Perkins’ mission to equip persons for faithful leadership and Christian ministry in a changing church and society. Their stories call us to reflect on Juneteenth not just as a historical event, but as an ongoing movement for spiritual and social transformation.