Veracity & Verse

A Preacher’s Reflections & Poems on Faith & Truth

By: Rev. Dr. James Alexander Forbes Jr.

Narrated by: Arnell Powell

Explore the remarkable life and heartfelt verse of the Rev. Dr. James A. Forbes Jr., the first Black senior minister at Riverside Church in New York City, one of the largest multicultural congregations in the US.

As the first Black senior minister at Riverside Church in New York City, James A. Forbes Jr. shattered barriers of Black leadership in mainline Christian denominations. Through his powerful sermons, Forbes brought the rich preaching styles of the African American church to white pulpits, leaving an indelible mark on the landscape of progressive Christianity.

Veracity and Verse provides a chronology of Forbes's life in his own words, detailing his journey through discrimination and rejection to become a revered professor at Union Theological Seminary, ultimately called to the prestigious pulpit of Riverside Church, where he served for eighteen years. Through Forbes's own poems and narratives, listeners will be immersed in the triumphant story of his life—from the struggles of the segregated South to his ascent to the greatest liberal Christian pulpit in the world. Veracity and Verse is a testament to the resilience, faith, and enduring impact of an extraordinary individual.

©2025 James A. Forbes, Jr. (P)2025 Recorded Books

The entire book as a whole. The variety of poetry and prose was perfect!

The entire book and story were amazing and inspiring. The Rev. Dr. Forbes is a prophet and Pastor who should have the honor and distinction of being the the Nation’s Pastor. His messages, when listened to, will help to transform the present chaos in this country into forward movement toward the beloved community. It needs to be widely read!