From Vision to                  Movement...

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The Out of Egypt I Called My Son™ Movement grew out of years of prayer, reflection, learning, and exploration of Africa’s significant presence within Scripture. Early in her journey, Rev. Phyllis Ida Coachman encountered the African Heritage Study Bible, edited by Rev. Dr. Cain Hope Felder, which deepened her awareness of the often-overlooked African context of biblical history. She was also influenced by recorded lectures by Professor Carl Nicholas exploring Africa’s connections to biblical history—ideas that encouraged her to continue studying, questioning, and expanding her understanding through her own research, teaching, and ministry.

 

Her theological studies at New York Theological Seminary further enriched her understanding. Through readings, classroom conversations, and especially dialogues among fellow students outside of class, she and others raised thoughtful questions about where the events of Scripture took place and how geography, history, and culture shaped the biblical world. These exchanges reinforced her desire to bring greater awareness to Africa’s important place within the biblical story.

 

Through her ministerial work, Rev. Coachman later developed and led presentations on The Black Presence in the Bible, bringing together Scripture, history, geography, and cultural context. These teaching experiences strengthened her conviction that many readers had been given an incomplete picture of the biblical world and that greater attention should be given to Africa, its peoples, and its connections to the lands and events of Scripture.

 

Over time, her continuing research, teaching, and creative work developed into the Out of Egypt I Called My Son™ Movement—a faith-based ministry and educational initiative dedicated to restoring overlooked history, deepening biblical understanding, inspiring faith, and encouraging people to rediscover the geographic and historical world in which the biblical story unfolded.

 

Rev. Coachman serves as Executive Minister of Safe Haven United Church of Christ, serving alongside Rev. Dr. Ruby Wilson, Senior Pastor. Her ministry, scholarship, and creative work continue to reflect the values of truth, faith, unity, and restoration that guide the Out of Egypt I Called My Son™ Movement and its mission to help people encounter Scripture with greater historical and geographic understanding.