I am writing in response to the most recent acts of hate and provocation in Washington, D.C., that took place before the recent Electoral College vote.
What happened in front of these historic Methodist churches should only serve to make us more resolute in our commitment to anti-racism and the promotion of love over hate, peace with justice, and grace that allows us to welcome the Christ Child as the sign that Christmas has real meaning for today as we work to bring peace on earth and goodwill to all people.
What can we learn from events of conflict like this one?
Do research on Asbury UMC. Why are churches named Asbury, and what was his witness? What is the history of the Metropolitan African Methodist Episcopal Church? Who was Frederick Douglas, who attended these churches, and what was his contribution to racial progress in our country?
Rather than writing my opinion on this recent news story, I am asking all United Methodists to revisit our baptismal vows and join the growing number of people who embrace being anti-racist as a part of being truly maturing Christians.
Also, click here to read a statement from Bishop LaTrelle Miller Easterling of the Baltimore-Washington Conference. Bishop Easterling grew up United Methodist at University UMC in Indianapolis and is a graduate of Indiana University and Indiana University School of Law.
Be encouraged,
Bishop Julius C. Trimble
Resident Bishop
Indiana Conference of The United Methodist Church