Reparation as a primary task of the 21st century American church
Chris Dela Cruz, a pastor in Oregon, shares how and why the Presbytery of the Cascades gave land to a local Native coalition.
The idea of reparations in the United States has been considered, in one form or another, since the 1700s. Denominationally, the topic of repair has been floated since the 1960s. In the U.S. Congress, resolutions have arisen – but a concerted, national effort to bring about reparatory justice for the descendants of those who were kidnapped, enslaved, driven from their own lands, forced into schools that stripped their language and identity, has not come to fruition. Aristotle said, “Education is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” Truly coming to terms with the human destruction that happened on U.S. soil, for many, is a painful journey. Generations who have lived with the compounded weight and sadness of that destruction have their own painful journey.
In this issue of the Outlook, our writers consider the act of repair and the steps the PC(USA) is taking to help mend the breach.
Chris Dela Cruz, a pastor in Oregon, shares how and why the Presbytery of the Cascades gave land to a local Native coalition.
"Karl B. Travis reframes the stewardship conversation, moving from a dreaded, annual recitation of budgetary woes to a fully joyful exploration of generosity — God’s and ours." — John Wilkinson
"The arc of Magic Enuff bends toward hope, however, offering readers a benediction in a slim volume of poetry that reveals deeper truths upon each re-reading." — Amy Pagliarella
“(T)hose who dismiss the idea of reparations will appreciate [Robert Turner's] heartfelt and forward-facing approach that does not point fingers ... He does, however, hold everyone accountable.” — Antonia R. Coleman
Gratitude to God inspires us to admit and apologize for our denomination’s role in historical harms, writes Jermaine Ross-Allam.
There is no redemption without restoration, no deliverance without atonement, writes William Yoo.
In each issue of the Outlook, we include a discussion guide to further reflect on the issue. We recommend using this guide in your Bible study, small group or book club. It's our invitation into a faithful conversation.
Outlook Editor Teri McDowell Ott introduces our issue on reparations.
Dartinia Hull interviews Paul Roberts, president of Johnson C. Smith Theological Seminary, on repairing the breach and healing our souls.
Jermaine Ross-Allam offers an introduction to the purpose of the PC(USA)'s Center for the Repair of Historical Harms, where he serves as the inaugural director.
Wordsmithed policy, if celebrated as an end in and of itself, is not a step on the journey toward a new way of being, says Larissa Kwong Abazia.
Gregg Brekke writes about restoration, redemption and reparations in Lansing, Michigan.
Westminster Church has started a program to pay 'royalties' for Negro spirituals.
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