The Ministry of Race Relations is mandated by synod to design, organize, and implement programs that will assist the denomination, churches, and members in eliminating the causes and effects of racism within the body of believers and throughout the world.

Its three-member staff is trained to present workshops for churches, classes, and members. They also distribute books and videos to help persons and congregations to challenge racism and promote in-depth reconciliation.

The promotion of multiethnic Christian celebrations is an important aspect of its ministry. On the denomination-wide level, it resources the synod-sponsored All Nations Heritage Week celebrations. It provides churches with bulletins, worship resources, and advice in order to help congregations celebrate our God-given diversity.

What’s New

The newest and most compelling program in which Race Relations is involved is the Initiative for Dismantling Racism. The ministry is at the core of this large project that includes all CRC agencies and institutions. Anti-Racism is a long-term program that shows great promise because it deals not only with personal racism, but also with the societal and institutional realities that promote racism. At present there are seven organized anti-racism teams. It is also preparing to organize new church clusters that will create congregational teams in different parts of the U.S. and Canada.

Fast Facts

• More than 300 congregations had special All Nations Heritage events and services last year.
• Topics for workshops include: "Eliminating Prejudice from the Church," "Intercultural Communication," "First Steps Against Racism," "Sharing Facilities with Another Ethnic Group," and "Preventing Bias in Children."
• Other areas of service are: Advocacy, Leadership Development, Conflict Resolution, Grants, and Scholarships for special programs.
• We carry out two successful Middle School Multicultural Camps: Camp Dunamis in Southern California, and Camp Koinonia in the Chicago area.

Contact

Rev. Esteban Lugo, Director
(800)272-5125
(616)224-5883
lugoe@crcna.org