GCORR and The United Methodist Church

Erin Hawkins, General Secretary

The United Methodist Church has done a tremendous job in fulfilling God’s call for justice and inclusiveness. However, there is still much work to be done. Racism continues to be the Church’s unfinished agenda.

We at the General Commission on Religion and Race, affirm your efforts to eradicate racism. The Commission rejoices in the progress that the denomination has made in the journey towards racial and ethnic inclusiveness. However, the journey has not ended. Racial injustice and discrimination, personal and institutional, are still prevalent in our church and world.

As we become more diverse, racism takes different manifestations – some of them violent and blatant; others subtle and difficult to recognize. The mandate of the church is to be a source of hope, healing, empowerment, justice and reconciliation to the poor, marginalized, and broken during these challenging times.

I believe that by the power of the Holy Spirit and with our perseverance we can conquer the sin of racism and hate among us.

May the grace of Jesus Christ enable us to continue the journey of discipleship by pro-actively proclaiming and living the inclusive community of God.

Erin M. Hawkins, General Secretary