The first definitive history of Historically Black Theological Institutions (HBTIs) and their enduring influence on Black Christian leadership and culture.

We can't understand the Black church and Black theology without understanding the influence of Historically Black Theological Institutions (HBTIs). This groundbreaking work dives into the sacred history of the six accredited HBTIs. Sixth-generation pastor Yvette Blair-Lavallais chronicles how these seminaries fostered the development of Black Christian thought and traces how faith leaders answered God's call to create spaces where Black men and women could be theologically trained in liberation, justice, and prophetic ministry.

Written in the Black radical preacherly tradition, Deep Calls to Deep uncovers some of the great untold stories of American religious history. HBTIs shaped many of the religious leaders who changed the course of America, including Martin Luther King Jr., Katie Cannon, Vashti Murphy McKenzie, and more. HBTIs nurtured the Black theology that defined the Black church and made it the foundation of the struggle for freedom. Through rich storytelling, historical research, and personal reflection, Blair-Lavallais brings to life the founding and ongoing legacy of Howard University School of Divinity, Payne Theological Seminary, Interdenominational Theological Center, Shaw University Divinity School, Hood Theological Seminary, and Virginia Union University's Samuel DeWitt Proctor School of Theology.

Deep Calls to Deep is both a history and an invitation: to honor the past, celebrate the present, and wade into the deep waters of Black faith, scholarship, and spiritual transformation.