In Faith and Friendship, Blacknall Small Groups Build Community
In May 2025, Chris Zhang decided to recommit to church after his normal rhythms of worship were disrupted by the COVID pandemic and years of joining services online. “I wanted to do the full package,” he said, noting the importance of attending Blacknall on Sunday mornings, joining Sunday School classes, and finding intimate community in a small group.
"When I read the Bible by myself or listen to sermons, it's only one input. But being with a small group is an eye-opening experience," said Chris, who joined a group last August. "It helps me feel comfortable opening up and knowing that people accept me, listen, and don’t judge. We realize we have the same struggles and need advice from one another. It gives me the courage to share more about myself."
Like Chris, many Blacknall members, attenders, and friends are finding connection in small groups that foster deeper relationships within our body of Christ. Read more about the impact of our small groups.
Prayer for Racial Justice Connects Churches from Across Durham
Huddled in a circle, eyes closed and voices rising into a swaying breeze so all could hear, 15 brothers and sisters in Christ gathered in downtown Durham to ask God to open the hearts, minds, and doors of the community to help those in need.
“It’s important for us to gather together to pray because the pain of racial injustice has not disappeared from our city or our nation,” said Associate Pastor Dave Dunderdale. People from Mt. Level Missionary Baptist Church, Blacknall, King's Park International Church, and even unchurched Christians have come together as part of a monthly Community Prayer for Racial Justice. Read a recap and see photos from one of these gatherings.
For International Students, Alpha Series Offered Space for Curiosity
Sai Smaran Shanka Balaram says no to almost everything. As a Ph.D. student studying physics at Duke, his time is carefully guarded — and he likes to keep it that way. And even through he said “yes” when a Blacknall member personally invited him to our Alpha series this winter, he showed up planning to leave at the halfway point. Then he stayed for all two hours. Raised in an orthodox Hindu family in India, Sai stepped away from religion at age 9 and largely left it behind. What brought him back to the table wasn't obligation — it was a friendship, a space for questions, and something he found himself wanting to be true. Sai was among many international students who joined us for Alpha. Read about what it meant for Sai and others to be welcomed at Blacknall.
The success of Alpha was captured in many ways! Check out a "by the numbers" recap with reflections from participants.
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Discover how God is working in the lives of our congregation and community in our community spotlight stories.