2004 Peace Colloquy

All in God's Image:
Ethnicity, Religion, Power, and Privilege

 

How can we heal the divisions and conflicts that come from ethnicity, religion, power, and privilege? With a presence in more than 50 nations, how can the Community of Christ celebrate the wonderful diversity of peoples and cultures internationally and in local neighborhoods?

All humans are created in God's image (Genesis 1:26-27). How can disciples and ministers witness to this awesome truth? How can Aaronic ministers welcome and support ethnic diversity in their congregations? How can elders and seventies witness of Jesus and the worth of all people? How can high priests be bridgers of cultures and peoples?

In the United States of America, 2004 is the 200th anniversary of the Lewis and Clark expedition that opened up the West to settlers and depredations on native peoples. It is the 75th anniversary of the birth of Martin Luther King Jr. It is the 50th anniversary of Brown v. Board of Education, Topeka, Kansas, decision of the U.S. Supreme Court. The Supreme Court ruled that segregated public school education was unconstitutional. This event helped launch the Civil Rights movement in which Christians, Jews, and people of all colors worked together to forge a new kind of politics encouraging equality and dignity for all.

The struggle is not yet over. This Colloquy will help disciples and seekers learn to make a difference in healing of the spirit, reconciliation, and pursuing peace and justice for all.