Study Guides & Workbooks
For those interested in digging deeply into issues, there are some study guides and workbooks available. Some come out of our own denomination; others are from our ecumenical partners.
The 2016 General Assembly of the PC(USA) adopted a church-wide anti-racism policy
called "Facism Racism: A Vision of the Intercultural Community." It's worth taking time to read and taking seriously its 'Challenge to the Church.'From it's powerful vision statement: "The Bible insistently reveals that God loves diversity and justice." ... "Racism is the opposite of what God intends for humanity. It is the rejection of the other, which is entirely contrary to the Word of God incarnate in Jesus Christ... Through colonization and slavery, the United States of America helped to create and embrace a system of valuing and devaluing people based on skin color and ethnic identity."... "In our humility as sinful people, we will listen openly to diverse voices regarding how racism functions in our society."
The Presbyterian Intercultural Network (PIN) receives encouragement and support from the Racial Ethnic & Women's Ministries office of the Presbyterian Mission Agency and its Intercultural Ministries group - we have a great deal in common! We are particularly grateful for the work they did in developing a Study Guide to go with the Facing Racism policy. The topics of the six guides are: Biblical Imperatives to Antiracism, Envisioning a New Way of Life Together, PC(USA) and Racial Reconciliation, Racism 101, Enduring Legacy of Racism in the U.S., and Responding as a Community of Faith. This training tool also includes a list of antiracism resources for congregations or presbyteries desiring further information.
Presbyterian Women made their commitment to anti-racism a long time ago. One of the resources they offer is the study packet, "Becoming the Beloved Community." What we've posted is a shortened version. The full packet and optional DVD can be ordered from PW.
"Talking Together as Christians Cross-Culturally: A Field Guide" (from the ELCA) answers why we should talk cross-culturally, what it's like, and how we train leaders and lead conversations, then provides culturally specific factors of which we should be aware as we enter cross-cultural territory that may be unfamiliar to us.
"Facing Racism in a Diverse Nation" is put out by a national organization called "Everyday Democracy." It describes this as "a guide for public dialogue and problem solving." It's six discussion sessions cover "Making Connections," "Our Ethnic Backgrounds and Racism," "Our Unequal Nation," "Why Do Inequities Exist?," "Looking at Our Community," and "Moving to Action."