United Methodists Stand Against Racism
We recognize racism as a sin.
We commit to challenging unjust systems of power and access.
We will work for equal and equitable opportunities in employment and promotion, education and training; in voting, access to public accommodations, and housing; to credit, loans, venture capital, and insurance; to positions of leadership and power in all elements of our life together; and to full participation in the Church and society.
The United Methodist Church has a long history of concern for social justice. John Wesley and the early Methodists expressed their opposition to societal ills such as slavery, smuggling, inhumane prison conditions, alcohol abuse, and child labor. Learn how we continue in ministries of justice today, and find places where you can serve.
Strawbridge invites you to partner with United Methodists and Christians of other denominations around the world in a kingdom movement to help dismantle racism where ever it exists and in whatever forms it exists. Encouraged by the Council of Bishops of the United Methodist Church, we invite you to engage in the following actions:
- Read, watch videos and/or listen to podcasts on the subject of anti-racism as much as you can
- Engage in conversations with children, youth and adults about anti-racism
- Support peaceful protesting
- Commit to a 30-day season of prayer – praying for 8 minutes and 46 seconds at 8:46 a.m. and 8:46 p.m. daily.
- Eight minutes and forty-six seconds is the amount of time the officer held his knee on the neck of George Floyd.
- Pray for all who suffer from oppression and racism
- Pray for the church to be connected and to be a witness of God’s redemptive and transformative love
As United Methodists, we pursue ‘social holiness’ that is rooted in our biblical understanding, informed by John Wesley’s movement for change in English society, and built upon 250 years of work and witness by Methodists. Through acts of personal, social and civic righteousness we can reflect the reconciling love of Christ to the Church and society.” (Taken from the introduction of Creating Change Together: A Toolkit for Faithful Civic Engagement from Church and Society.)
Racial Justice Resources for Young People