Last Saturday a national tragedy occurred (again) when supremacist and neo-Nazi groups went to Charlottesville, VA and gave rise to violence, destruction, and death. We are grieving for the individuals involved but even more so, what these acts of racism and violence say about us as a people.
I’m asking that we continue to reflect on this tragedy and have prayer about racial justice. It’s reported that there are more scheduled rallies by these hate groups in the coming weeks. We need to pray for those communities of faith that will, like in Charlottesville, seek to literally link arms and walk for justice.
Racial justice isn’t just a social concern; it is a gospel teaching. As followers of Jesus, we need to counter those messages of hate and racism with the teachings of Jesus.
But my heart is heavy for other places in our world, too. Please continue to pray for peace with North Korea. Also, remember the people of Sierra Leone. United Methodists – including entire families – are among the hundreds killed after torrential rains caused deadly mudslides and flooding near Freetown.
If a stranger to Christianity walked into your church or listened to your private prayers, would the stranger be able to tell that our Christian, specifically United Methodist, faith loves the world as God does? Thank you for your faith, witness, and courage! Read more.
~Bishop Sally Dyck
Click here to read a statement from Bishop Bruce R. Ough, President
Council of Bishops
National Campaign and Resources
The United Methodist Church is advertising nationally to encourage a unified stand against racism, challenging people to learn how we all can be a force for good. A compilation of articles and denominational statements is available at UMC.org/EmbraceLove. Resources from across the connection are also available, including liturgies, discussion guides, videos to use in worship and on social media, and tips for talking to kids.
Join the Conversation
United Voices for Children (UVC) Event “Skin in the Game” – Equipping Congregations to address Racism
Saturday, August 19 – 8:30am to 12:30pm at First UMC, Elmhurst. Sponsored by United Voices for Children. Guest speaker: Rev. Dr. Felicia LaBoy.
This workshop will provide practical guidance and resources for clergy, lay leaders, and Christian Educators on effectively addressing white privilege and racism. Practitioners will reflect on what has worked and not worked for them in challenging and changing beliefs and practices within a congregation.
Click here for more information and to register.