One year ago, our city witnessed the raw evil of racism and white supremacy at the violent Unite the Right rally. Since then, our nation has grappled with the reality that racism is still very alive in American life, even within our churches.
On Sunday, Aug. 12, we will host a special service calling for continued racial reconciliation.
On the one-year anniversary of this dark day, it’s incumbent upon us to resolve to confront racism in our hearts and our communities and to see it for what it is: sin.
White supremacism, white nationalism, anti-Semitism and all forms of racism are evil. These ideologies do not represent the heart of Jesus and do not represent our Christian faith. If we are honest, racism is not an issue of politics, nor is it an issue that can be handled passively. We must face it head on, or it will continue to pit us against each other and lead us to hurt one another.
During the past year, I’ve been part of many conversations and events where the discussion on race has taken center stage. It’s been so healthy and encouraging to hear the dialogue that’s taking place in many church circles and the efforts that are being made to build bridges of peace and understanding. Besides just identifying the problem, this is an opportunity for the church to point to the solution. True reconciliation is impossible apart from Jesus. When we are in Christ, there is no room for racism or hatred.
I pray this Sunday, our nation will take this anniversary as an opportunity to commit ourselves to redouble our efforts to tear down the walls of hatred and prejudice that have divided us for too long. And I pray we will remember that, in the eyes of God, every human life is sacred and precious. {eoa}
Charisma Staff 
Joseph Mattera