YOUNGSTOWN — For the past two months, New Bethel Baptist Church and Canfield Presbyterian Church have collaborated to participate in a Bible study focusing on the book of James in the New Testament.

Under the leadership of Dr. Frank Hearns of New Bethel and the Rev. Larry Bowald of Canfield Presbyterian, the group met for four weeks at New Bethel on Hillman Street in Youngstown, followed by four weeks at Canfield Presbyterian on Main Street in Canfield.

This was inspired by ongoing discussions, including with the Mahoning Valley Association of Churches, about the need to eliminate barriers in the community. It became even more critical following the racial unrest after the killing of George Floyd two years ago. Bowald knew it wasn’t enough just to talk about the problems but instead recognized that looking for solutions included the need for more interpersonal involvement.

According to Bowald, “Part of addressing racism is relationship building, and a Bible study is a good way to start a relationship.”

Hearns, calling Bowald “a brother from another mother,” summarized the need for unity: “If we can’t get together down here, we’ll never be together in glory.”

He stated as a result of the weekly meetings, we “see one another for what each has to offer and can learn from each other. We’re no longer strangers, but brothers and sisters.”

Bowald and Hearns said their styles are complementary. Hearns values his role as a teacher and starts each session with a lecture about the evening’s Scripture. Bowald describes his function as “the dialogue person creating conversation.”

The group of about 20 people has dissected the Book of James, which includes passages about not speaking ill of each other and not favoring one group over another — a natural fit for two congregations that previously had limited interactions. Charlene Serenko of Canfield Presbyterian said, “We aren’t the judge. We’re just people coming together. Nobody is saying our church is better.”

Wanda Richardson of New Bethel said, “I have been excited since Day 1” at the opportunity to study and learn in a different setting. She looked forward to comparing “our cultures, our relationships, our churches, our beliefs. “God sent us Pastor Larry and Dr. Hearns to bring us together as one,” Richardson said.

Rev. Rebecca Kirkland added, “The Holy Spirit shows us things we have in common. Don’t look at people on the surface, but treat people like an onion, layer by layer.”

The Tuesday evening Bible study is concluding, but members from both congregations said they will discuss ways they can continue building on the relationship.