Race: Where Do We Stand?

In August, parishioners were invited to participate in the first of a series of discussions addressing topics of race and racism. This series was entitled Holy Listening in an effort to practice the sacred act of listening to the truth of another. I am pleased to share with you the next phase of our conversations, which will begin on Wednesday, October 14.

Led by a joint planning committee of lay leaders, parishioners from Lomax AME Zion and St. Michael's are invited to participate in a multi-session discussion series on race and racism. Joining together in conversation, we are building upon the previously established relationship between the two communities, in hopes of having a more complete understanding of the work that is before us. Over the course of four sessions, we will endeavor to understand our past so that we might be reconciled in the future.

Relationships—with trusted fellow parishioners, with sisters and brothers from Lomax who may be new to us, and with God—will be the foundation of this work. Becoming the church God has called us to be is dependent on our willingness to commit to God and to one another, and trust that the Holy Spirit will guide us along the way. I hope you will mark these dates on your calendar and make every effort to join in these discussions.

October 14: Our Churches' Past
The Racial and Civil Rights History of St. Michael’s Episcopal and Lomax A.M.E. Zion Churches, and Arlington

October 21: Who are We?
Getting to Know Each Other and Creating Sacred Trusted Space for Sharing Our Stories

October 28: Our Churches Today

November 4: A Call to Action

Who is my neighbor, and how can I help?