Newfrontiers Diversity Conference
‘For he himself is our peace, who has made two groups one and has destroyed the barrier, the dividing wall of hostility…His purpose was to create in himself one new humanity out of the two, thus making peace, and in one body to reconcile both of them to God through the cross, by which he put to death their hostility.’ Ephesians 2:14-16
In March of this year, Tope Koleoso and I co-hosted an event for the UK apostolic teams looking at the issue of racial diversity. About 50 of us came together for what was a stimulating and challenging day. In the two main sessions, Tope and I each addressed the important subject of race from our different perspectives and experiences.
I highly recommend Tope’s talk to you. He gives historical context to the issue of race and racism, brings a biblical perspective, and shares some of his personal experiences. It is challenging and honest. He finishes with an encouragement to the Church to be biblically persuaded, to be personally aware and have open conversations, and to act with wisdom. In doing so, he argues, we can go beyond integration to true acceptance, move from tolerance to love and go beyond native culture to kingdom culture. You can watch Tope’s talk by following the link below.
https://youtu.be/SsRhtQFfo_0
In my session I spoke about some of the many mistakes I have made over the years in the area of diversity. I am grateful for the grace that has been extended to me by the members of King’s as we have navigated what is involved in becoming a racially diverse church. It is a journey we have been on for the last couple of decades, and we know there is further to go. We have addressed the subject directly in three different teaching series, Gracism, Invited and our most recent, Undivided. I have learnt a lot since coming to King’s in 1995, but I am aware that there is always more to learn. Hopefully, by sharing some of my mistakes I can save others from repeating them! It begins with an interview with King’s very own Head of Ops, Janett Read. Follow the link below to watch.
https://youtu.be/iK9fRLx8jSQ
