We believe that God is calling this Church to work toward dismantling racism and building antiracist diversity in our congregations, agencies and institutions.
The Antiracism Team of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod offers a process for equipping the members of this synod to begin identifying and dismantling systemic racism.
But let justice roll on like a river, righteousness like a never-failing stream!
Amos 5.24
Let’s start small. One pebble at a time!
- How do we understand the difference between racism and personal prejudice?
- Do we all see racism differently?
- Is racism still holding us back from fulfilling our Gospel mission together?
- Most importantly, how can we have a positive conversation about racism and its continuing impact on our lives?
Let’s discuss the impact of race and racism. Let’s develop a common analysis and understanding of the racial construct. Let’s expose and resolve the rifts that keep us apart.
There won’t be any overnight changes. No magic elixir. No salve for our wounds. But, by addressing the real problems, the foundation, construction and ongoing sustenance of the racial construct we will arrive at our destination:
A church where all people are equal, at all levels, as God intended!
Let’s explore a common language and definitions to understand the continuing issue of racism throughout our church and society;
Let’s work to jointly develop an understanding of racism as a systemic issue, and not simply an issue of individual attitudes and actions;
Let’s seek approaches to dismantling racism that will provide the foundation for enduring solutions that lead to racial justice and racial reconciliation.
Let us pray
O God of unconditional love, you who show no partiality in respect to persons, nations or races we have heard your Good News of great joy for all the people, we hear that Good News, and in hearing, believe. We know that your sanctuary is a house of worship for all people, with no regard for the color of our skin.
As we worship you, knit us into a people, a seamless garment of many colors. May we celebrate our unity, made whole in our diversity. Amen.
Go ahead!! Take off your shoe!! Dump out that pebble before it becomes a boulder.
