Ministry of Racial Justice and Reconciliation (MRJR) Guiding Statement
At Bethany Community Church, we believe all humans are image bearers of God (Gen 1:27) and diversity is God’s very-good design (Rev 7:9). Therefore, we strive to stop racism and see God’s image in all people, including all variety of bodies, skin color, ethnicity, national origin, language, faith, and citizenship status. Jesus Christ is ultimately the One who breaks down dividing walls to dismantle racism. At the same time, Jesus calls and equips his followers to be his co-agents of reconciliation and justice. (Ephesians 2:14, 2 Corinthians 5:18-19).
Toward this end, Bethany Community Church has made racial justice and reconciliation a strategic priority and established the Ministry of Racial Justice and Reconciliation (MRJR) in order to build a long-term community of reconciliation that restores broken relationships and systems.
Goals
The Ministry of Racial Justice and Reconciliation is committed to three over-arching goals:
1. Building a cohesive Bethany-wide MRJR movement.
2. Actively dismantling racism and pursuing justice.
3. Ensuring God’s multi-ethnic kingdom is increasingly reflected in Bethany’s staff and congregation and leadership.
Get Involved
If you're concerned about racial injustice, want to learn about its root causes and grow as an agent of justice and reconciliation, there are ways to get involved!
Race and Place Book Discussion
Sundays, starting February 16, 5pm, Greenwood, Kids welcome, Dinner provided prior to book discussion, Register
In Race and Place, SPU professor David Leong shows how geographic systems and structures sustain injustice and racial division in our very own city. This book equips readers to re-present Christ in our city and become agents of justice, reconciliation and belonging in the place we call home.
This five week study will meet at Chris and Amanda Roenicke's home (719 N 92 St.) and is specifically planned so that families with young children can join in the conversation. However, anyone and any age children are welcome to join. Books and dinner will be provided the first night.
SERMON LINKS
White Awake: An Evening with Daniel Hill
January 28, 2019
sermon link
Repairing Reconciliation with Rev. Dr. Brenda Salter-McNeil
October 2, 2017
sermon link
Race & Justice with Romanita Hairston-Overstreet
March 9, 2017
sermon link
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