by Katie Pruett
“The expression of Blackness is unique and particular. Black religion is unique and particular, Black Unitarian Universalism is even more unique and particular, and I’m deeply invested in it.”
Meet Rev. Tyler Coles, the newest member of BLUU’s Organizing Collective Board (OCB). Enthusiastic isn’t a big enough word to describe Rev. Tyler’s energy moving into this new role. Their love for the BLUU community paired with a never-ending interest in faith, religion, and commitment to spaces that welcome us to show up as our full selves, are just a few qualities that make this addition all the more exciting.
“I have always admired BLUU,” Rev. Tyler said. “I have always wanted to support the mission of the community.”
An ordained UU minister from Roanoke, Virginia, Rev. Tyler came to Unitarian Universalism while still in high school. They eventually answered the call to ministry and attended seminary in Nashville, Tennessee. While they also are invested in many traditions, including African traditional religions, the UU faith is the space where Rev. Tyler “wrestles” with (in their own words), “the Black, Jewish, Palestinian man that is Jesus and what he calls us to do in this world.”
“I came to Unitarian Universalism because I needed a place to put my Jesus,” Rev. Tyler expressed.
They were thrilled to receive the invitation to join the OCB—particularly in support of BLUU’s BELIEF pillar—where they will continue to work out the spirituality and theology around what it means to be Black and UU. Rev. Tyler will collaborate with Rev. Mykal Slack, the Worship Associates, other members of the OCB, and BLUU staff. Their primary focus is in the areas of worship, pastoral care, faith development, and small group ministries to name a few.
“When the invitation to join the OCB was extended, I was like ‘yep, that’s it,’” Rev. Tyler shared. “I decided to push some other things aside because this is a priority.”