Crucial Christian conversations on racial justice and racism

Contributed to Newsline by Christy Schaub

We all have different backgrounds and experiences with regard to race. Some of us feel punched in the gut every day. Some of us live in all-white communities and wish there was more diversity in our lives. Some of us grew up with some bad experiences but were able to leave them in the past. Some of us didn’t have any idea that racism still existed until something shocking happened in the news, or some harm came to someone we personally know. Some of us love exploring new cultures and cuisines and want to meet new friends. Some of us feel that white people are sometimes excluded as well.

All of us want to be accepted for who we are. Racism has impacted all of us in some way.

Let’s take the opportunity, in small groups of three or four people, to share, listen to, and process our feelings and observations about racial justice and racism in our lives as Brethren by coming together via Zoom on Nov. 23 from 1-5 p.m. (Eastern time). During this four-hour session, members of the Standing with People of Color Committee will help you experience the “7 Prompts” and the BELOVED model of communication first-hand.

Here’s what to expect:

— We will remind ourselves how profoundly helpful it is to listen to each other.

— We’ll learn how to be a better listener by micro-paraphrasing.

— We’ll open our hearts to God in prayer.

— We’ll go through a series of “7 Prompts” in small groups where everyone gets a turn to talk and deeply listen.

— Between these seven prompts, we’ll have a chance to share briefly with the larger group.

We welcome young adults through seniors eager to learn and grow as followers of Jesus. We hope you will join us!

Learn more and register at www.onearthpeace.org/2024_11_23_swpoc_7_prompts_workshop

— Christy Schaub is part of the Standing with People of Color Committee of the Church of the Brethren Annual Conference.

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