our response to racial injustice
We are outraged and deeply saddened by racism. Furthermore, as a church, we condemn it.
We know that we all come from different perspectives. There are many details that can be debated. However, this is what is obvious: there is racial inequality in our nation. To deny this is to justify it. So, what should we do?
First step: care
We ask that you would lean in and listen to people who are a different color than you. When you feel like you are beginning to understand, lean in and listen even more.
In Philippians 2|3-4, followers of Christ are told to put others first: “Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.”
For those of you who have experienced racial injustice, we would like you to know that we are listening, and we see your pain.
Romans 12|15 says to “Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” We are mourning with you and looking forward to rejoicing with you as one family.
Second step: conversation
You may want to just shut off the TV and delete social media, but it’s important that we lean in is as followers of Christ and not run from the conversation when our society needs our influence the most.
Understanding and compassion can’t happen without an open conversation. And, we want the discussion to continue, so you will hear more from us soon about our upcoming round table conversation focusing on racism.
