Reconciliation
As a church family, we are committed to a Christ-focused perspective surrounding issues of race and ethnicity. To that end, we are resolute in working toward the unity of all people under the cross of Jesus. Our core beliefs have shaped our values as a church and diversity is central to our mission. We believe that multi-ethnic relationships and gatherings are key to understanding systemic issues and humanizing people we may not initially understand.
It is with this in mind that we are seeking to restore, repair, and reconcile people to God and one another. We will not be complicit in culture wars because we believe the issues of racism, disparity, and injustice can only be solved with hearts that have been softened by the love of God. We will champion a church of unity and do all we can to ensure consistent movement toward racial equality and justice for our church family and the community we serve.
EDUCATION
There is much to learn when it comes to the historic nature of racism and injustice that has existed in the United States and even the American church. We believe understanding first comes from knowledge and we are committed to creating opportunities for our church and community stakeholders to learn more about how we arrived here and ways we can work toward a gospel-centered approach to healing.
ACTION
Racial disparity and injustice surface in many ways and as a church, we are committed to a gospel-centered approach toward activism when and where our brothers and sisters need it the most. We will do all we can within our influence to act on their behalf.
RECONCILIATION
Reconciliation involves bringing people back into good standing with God and each other. We have a vision for helping our community do both. Because reconciliation begins first with a relationship, we are committed to helping our church and community stakeholders enter into a relationship with those they’ve feared, been far from, misunderstood, or simply need to be in proximity with.
RESOURCES
Below you will find a list of resources that we believe may help you begin to discover how you may engage your heart in education, action, and reconciliation.
CHURCH OF THE CITY SERMONS
The Controversial Jesus: Jesus and Privilege - Jon Tyson
Love Must Be Stronger Than Hate - Jon Tyson
A Missional Life: Justice and Mercy - Suzy Silk
Class, Race, Reconciliation, and the Kingdom of God - David Bailey
Responding as a Church Family: Lament and Repentance - Jon Tyson
Crying Out: Prophetic Lament - Suzy Silk
Coaching Tips to Bridging Racial Barriers - Dr. David Ireland
Crying Out: The Cry of the Heart - David Bailey
Crying Out: A Cry For Others - Jon Tyson
