Introducing the Combating Racism Taskforce
Dear Church Family,
God’s vision has always been for all humanity, united in our diversity, recognizing, uplifting, and cherishing the sacred worth of all people. So, as followers of Jesus, there is no sin more antithetical to our life together in the body of Christ than racism. Part of our calling as disciples and as a church is to work against present patterns and past histories of racism and injustice in our culture and community that we might continue to strive toward God’s unwavering vision of love for all people from every “nation, race, language, and tribe” and live out the true beauty of the beloved community of Christ.
To help our church pursue this sacred calling and as part of the North Texas Conference’s “Journey Toward Racial Justice” congregational group, the Administrative Board of First United Methodist Church of Denton is pleased to share information about the creation of a new workgroup called the “Combating Racism Task Force.” This committee, with representatives from across the church and always open to new people, is charged with helping our congregation to grow in our knowledge, discipleship, and ability to act wisely; to look at our history and our present to see ways we can learn and grow; and to develop community partners and missions to help our church work toward making God’s vision for humanity, for Denton, and for our church a reality.
The work of the Task Force will include an internal review; spiritual growth and anti-racism programming; and community outreach. The first offering sponsored by the Task Force will be a congregational series called “Combating Racism” led by Pastor to Youth and Families, Rev. David Finley. The four-week series will launch Thursday, January 21 at 6:30 pm on Zoom with a session exploring “What Is Racism?” To register for this study, click here.
In the coming year, you will hear more about the work of the Task Force and enjoy more opportunities to learn, grow, serve, and share. In the meantime, if you are interested in joining the work of the team, we would love to have you. For more information, visit fumcdenton.com/CRTF or contact Dr. Karen Anderson-Lain, Combating Racism Task Force Chair, at kanders1313@gmail.com or Rev. Jonathan Perry at JPerry@fumc-denton.com.
We look forward to this work together for our city, for ourselves, and for the vision of the One who created all humanity in the sacred image of God, that we might shine God’s love into every life even brighter.
With Grace & Peace,
Karen & Jonathan