As we head into the last few months of 2016, we will be engaging in deliberate and intentional conversation about race in our nation, and, about ways to actively work for racial justice. One of the ways we will focus on the topic of race is through a series of reading challenges. In the month of November, you are challenged to read Between the World and Me by Ta- Nehisi Coates. This is a short but powerful book (and an excellent audio book as it is read by the author.) In December, the challenge will be to read White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son by Tim Wise.
While reading raises awareness and broadens perspective, the heart of the challenge lays in the group discussion component. Our hope is that many of you will coordinate a small group discussion of the book in your home (or in a local gathering place in your neighborhood). You would schedule it at your convenience and you would invite not only members of our congregation but also neighbors and friends. Whether you are a host or a participant, the hope is that you would engage in meaningful of the discussion with a small group during November. (More information about how to connect with a small group will be shared as hosts volunteer.)
Would you be willing to host a book discussion? As a host, you would help issue the invitation, provide hospitality for the group, and facilitate the discussion. Group discussion guidelines will be provided. If you are willing to host a small group, please contact Judith or me.
Another opportunity to engage will be by participating in Richmond Hill’s lecture on Race and Richmond’s History on Monday, November 28 at 7:30PM. Dr. Alison Gise-Johnson (Director of the Doctor of Ministry Program in the School of Theology at Virginia Union) will lecture on “Implicit Cultural Bias and Race.” Worship begins at 5:30, dinner at 6:30, and lecture at 7:30. A recommended donation of $20 is requested. Contact me if you’d like to participate.