The vision for the Matthew 25 invitation asks us to engage together in the three works of vitalizing congregations, dismantling structural racism and eradicating systemic poverty. Though individual, these three works are inseparable. Can a congregation be vital without confronting racism? What is at stake when racism directs our congregational and community life?
In the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), we set aside this week to be reminded of the importance of Christian education and those leaders who teach, plan and above all nurture our faith formation. In years past, we have celebrated with kickoff Sundays and large rally day celebrations across our churches. This year, we are navigating an entirely different fall and beginning to our Christian education year. Christian Educators and church leaders have weathered a difficult spring and summer already, and looking ahead to the upcoming program year seems insurmountable at times. And yet, the energy, imagination, intelligence and love are abundant in these leaders as they have pivoted to the reality of virtual, hybrid and anything but normal settings for Christian education and faith formation. Let us take a moment to express gratitude, lament losses and frustrations and rest in the knowledge of God’s abundant grace.
Making long-lasting change to nullify racism, we must change our culture, build relationships with people who are different, and foster mutual respect.
Nearly 600 people gathered virtually Wednesday to have what is all too often a difficult conversation in a majority white denomination.
With the current unrest and protest in our nation, the call for justice and the dismantling of structural racism is stronger than ever. Committing to become a Matthew 25 church offers one of the first ways that churches can take steps to bring about racial justice.
In a new episode of “Everyday God-Talk,” three diverse church leaders share how living with the coronavirus and racism affects them and their communities.
Two North Carolina congregations — one historically white, the other black — take steps to heal 150 years of racial wounds by worshiping together virtually.
