Local pastors speak up on discrimination, injustices

Pastor Ricardo Rodriguez WikiCommons/ Abisai20

Pastors, primarily black and white, discussed racism and inequality during “D.C. Talks” at the Museum of the Bible. The dinner event is organized by Bishop Derek Grier of Grace Church in Virginia.

The activity introduces the “Let’s Talk” initiative that allows Christian leaders in the United States to meet via Zoom every month come December.

Grier aims to create an avenue for multi-ethnic pastors to voice their first-hand experiences and concerns on racial discrimination in America. It is also a chance to bring up practical solutions to address the issue.

Leaders of color gave details on how they have become a victim of racism through the years. They also shared how they coped with those traumatic experiences by drawing closer to God.

On the other hand, white pastors seconded what the black pastors mentioned regarding the impact of racism on them. An apology has been their message to the victims.

Faith leaders have drawn out solutions saying that they need to be attended to inside and outside the church.

From Victimized to Friendship

The founder and lead pastor of Eagles Nest Church in Atlanta, Rev. Lee Jenkins, shared an experience with a police officer when he was younger. He was a victim of discrimination because of being black.

The trauma lasted on him even until he became a pastor. To overcome his bad experience, he invited the white police chief to his church and made friends with him.

“It was incredible what the Lord did in our relationship. We became good friends. And the police chief said: ‘Lee, if you see anything we’re doing that is not conducive for racial unity, would you let me know?” Jenkins shared with the audience.

Jenkins concluded his talk by encouraging the people to rise above the negativity and do what is right in the eyes of God.  “It is worth it to push through pain because you’ll see change.” 

Another Black pastor from California shared his experience of being discriminated against in America. Bishop Kenneth Ulmer calls himself a “recovering racist” who was once a victim of racism but has claimed to be changed by God.

From Racism to Reconciliation

As a number of black pastors shared their testimonies, white leaders confirmed their stories and showed empathy and apology for what these church leaders have experienced. “Racism exists and should be stopped.”

Rev. Frank Santora, national TV host of “Destined to Win” and lead pastor of Faith Church in New York, attended the gathering.

Santora, an Italian, felt that he owed an apology to people who share the same features as him for the racism in America. He believes that something should be done to be reconciled, and that is an apology.

He had emphasized the story of Jesus when He became a representative man. He was not supposed to be crucified at the cross, but he took the responsibility. This is the analogy given by Santora when white people say that they do not have to apologize for things that they did not do.

He concluded his talk with an apology to the people who have experienced injustices in the country. The multi-campus New York pastor said that he never experienced racism but has witnessed it happen to other people.

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