Dear friends and members of University UMC:
Thank you to all who came out to the Church Conference last week to participate in the voting on our anti-racism statement. The result was a unanimous affirmation of support. Of course the statement is more than just words. The words call us to action. I know in my own personal journey, it’s because of the Racial Justice Task Force’s work that I have become more intentional about supporting businesses owned by People of Color. Whether eating out or purchasing books and gifts, I’m trying to be more thoughtful about where I spend my money. And I’m grateful for the strong tradition here at UUMC of being called to action in the pursuit of justice, whether it is showing up at a protest, writing legislators or voting.
Right now, I am reading two books by African American writers. One is by a retired Candler School of Theology professor named Luther Smith and it’s called “Hope is Here: Spiritual Practices for Pursuing Justice and Beloved Community.” Smith’s research through the years has centered on the African American theologian Howard Thurman. Throughout “Hope is Here,” we learn of the deep spiritually that fueled Thurman’s prophetic voice. This book will be the basis for a church-wide study during Lent on Sundays after worship and will also be referenced in some of the sermons throughout Lent. (Details forthcoming about the study; and while I recommend the book, no need to purchase or read ahead of time!)
