At Good Shepherd KC, we recognize Black History Month as a sacred time to honor the enduring legacy, resilience, and extraordinary contributions of Black people throughout history. We celebrate the richness of Black culture, the strength of Black families, and the profound impact of Black leaders, activists, artists, innovators, and everyday individuals who have shaped our world. From the struggle against slavery and the fight for civil rights to the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality, the story of Black history is an integral part of the American story, and a vital part of our shared human experience.
This month, we especially lift up the voices and stories that have too often been silenced or marginalized. We acknowledge the systemic racism and injustice that has plagued our society for generations, and the ongoing struggle for equity that continues today. We recognize that the work of racial justice is not just a moment, but a continuous commitment – a commitment we must embody every day of the year.
As a community of faith, we also acknowledge our own history, recognizing that the Methodist Church, like many institutions, has at times been complicit in perpetuating racial injustice. We confess our past failures and the ways in which we have fallen short of embodying the love and justice that are at the heart of the Gospel. We ask for forgiveness for the times we have been silent when we should have spoken out, and for the ways in which we have contributed to systems of oppression.
We believe that true reconciliation requires truth-telling, repentance, and a commitment to action. Therefore, we commit ourselves anew to the work of dismantling racism in all its forms, both within our church and in the wider community. We strive to listen to and learn from the experiences of our Black brothers and sisters, to amplify their voices, and to advocate for policies and practices that promote justice and equity for all.
This Black History Month, we invite you to join us as we celebrate the richness of Black history and culture, reflect on our past, and renew our commitment to building a more just and equitable future, one where all of God’s children are truly valued and loved. We encourage you to engage in learning, reflection, and dialogue throughout the month and beyond. We offer resources [Link to resources or information about church events related to Black History Month].
We pray that God will guide us on this journey towards healing and reconciliation, and empower us to be agents of change in the world.
