Belonging and Inclusion
Photo by Tim Mossholder on Unsplash
Being wholehearted in our embrace of all our neighbours, visibly countering racism through loving action.
‘Going over to him, the Samaritan soothed his wounds with olive oil and wine and bandaged them. Then he put the man on his own donkey.’
Luke 10:34
As Methodists we are clear that since each person is made in the image of God, we will respond to all with dignity, respect and compassion. We are particularly aware that each person will have their own set of experiences that we will not be aware of unless we actively listen to them.
As we see in the case of the Good Samaritan, Christian discipleship practically impacts on how we love our neighbour who may be from a different background than ourselves. It means us going out of our way, using our resources and at times potentially putting ourselves in danger.
We have been deeply concerned in recent years about the rise in anti-immigrant sentiment, racist language, threats and violence directed towards those of racial / ethnic minorities. Events this summer have underlined our concern. We recognise that it is particularly important at this time for Jesus’ followers to be visible in our compassion and active in our embrace of those who have reason to feel fearful.
We strongly commend the ‘From Every Nation?’ resource produced by ‘Churches in Ireland’ which equips Christians and churches to consider their thinking and actions.
As those who are called to be salt and light in the community, we would urge Christians and churches to be more proactive in demonstrating love and compassion to those from other countries and ethnicities, while opposing racism.
Alongside it, we also commend the following as some practical examples of how churches may respond.
What can churches do?
Become aware of, and challenge, everyday racism in our conversations.
Think about who, in your community, may feel threatened because of immigration, race, culture or religion. Think of a small, but positive action, e.g. give them a phone call, call at their door (in daylight), bring them a home-made or other gift, invite them to your home or other setting.
Host an open event in church premises where various people can mix over a coffee etc. Or attend one organised in your community.
Familiarise ourselves with what is happening to encourage good relations by local groups. A search online will inform you about known and trusted groups who may be organising activities which you can join.
Make your embrace of others obvious with clear posters on your church page or notice board.
In church services, ask those gathered to speak the Lord’s Prayer in their own language. Make positive reference to integration in the prayers and sermon.
Consider becoming a Church of Sanctuary or a Welcome church. ( cityofsanctuary.org / welcomechurches.org )
Take as many opportunities to learn as much as you can – from support groups for example; about our governments’ policies and decision making; how things work.
Become an ally of those impacted by hate.
Support the removal of threatening posters or graffiti in your area. There are some settings where it is up to the authorities to intervene and others where Christians can practically take action themselves. Every setting is unique and must be addressed with great wisdom. Any action by churches should be in the context of strong relationships with the local community, community groups and others.
Solidarity campaigns
There may be opportunity to be active at other outdoor gatherings. A local church may consider having a banner or posters referencing the love of Jesus and the local church. The church members could join in a local community gathering that may be an act of solidarity with those who may feel under threat, whether in response to a specific incident or not.
The Methodist Church in Ireland encourages churches to be active where possible in these gatherings. Most of these gatherings are organised by community groups. There may well be a variety of groups supporting and being active in such gatherings. These other groups may or may not share some stances that MCI or a local church agrees with. In any given setting local churches or Christians will seek to exercise wisdom about whether or how to be involved. However, not being in entire agreement with others is not of itself a reason to avoid such gatherings. Also, if nobody else is doing it, it may be that the local church should be at the forefront of making such a gathering happen.
A note on Counter-protests
Often anti-immigrant demonstrations are best ignored, while we get on with the good that we can do. However, there are times when it is right to directly confront that which stands against the Kingdom of God. If such circumstances arise, it is important to consider the thinking of other community leaders, local community groups, the police and those similarly concerned.
Other social need
In both jurisdictions in Ireland there are various pressures on services and infrastructure. These include housing, education, general and mental health services and more. In any given local area, particularly working class communities, there can be very particular challenges often related to social inequality or other needs not being met. Sadly, these pressures can be used as a breeding ground for resentment and misdirected frustration.
The Methodist Church in Ireland, through local Circuits and Missions, is addressing social need in its various forms week by week. And through the Council on Social Responsibility, we consistently speak out and advocate for the provision and resourcing of services to help those in need. We continue to call upon our elected representatives and others to work for the good of all, particularly those most easily marginalised.
You can download this document in full below.