Beloved ConversationsA curriculum for exploring the role of race/ethnicity in individual and congregational livesRacism is as old as history itself, and as such, needs intentional spaces to reverse its damaging impact. Commissioned by a congregation in need of resources to hold its members in covenant as they learned how race and ethnicity shape their spiritual and social lives, Beloved Conversations: Meditations on Race and Ethnicity is now serving more than 140 Unitarian Universalist, Jewish, and Quaker congregations across the United States.
Using a small-group ministry format, the curriculum creates a supportive space for congregants to talk about their own experiences, while identifying places where growth is necessary. As an instrument of faith formation, it offers participants a chance to rediscover the sacred and important presence of compassion, grace, risk-taking, vulnerability, and the healing joy when cross-racial relationships are reconciled. In addition, the curriculum’s third edition (2017) offers real-time faith formation resources explicitly for people of color, as well as organizational support for making institutional change. UCH has had multiple groups go through this 10 week class so far and are encouraging everyone to engage. It is challenging but extremely rewarding work and alumni then join the Racial Equity Team and begin offering their own insights and skills toward breaking down the systems of oppression we all live within. Contact Marian Honel-Wilson for more information. |
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