This past Sunday, Rev. Kenneth Pettigrew and Rev. Kayla engaged in a conversation on what it is to worship and be in community across theological, cultural and racial diversity. Rev. Kenneth named that often in predominantly white spaces, the people of color are not seen as being there, or fully human. This naming received words of gratitude from the congregation. He also named that it is a matter of intellectual integrity and honesty to be able to express different names for and expressions of the holy in theologically diverse spaces (including God and Jesus).

He challenged us: how can we be present and take the light, word, hope we find when we’re together, while acknowledging not everything can be for us in a space of theological and cultural diversity?

And I challenge us: let’s be more consciously present of what speaks to us, and what we imagine might speak to someone else. Let’s move that imagination into knowing by taking the time to have a real conversation and get to know someone we don’t know. Especially someone who has a different theology or culture from us, someone who is of a different race, class or age group.

We are only as real, as deep and as honest as we make ourselves. Let’s co-create this community together.

Curious about how we are framing being in such a diverse community, working to truly make space for all, instead of unconsciously centering a few? Read more about Paula Cole Jones’ framework of Community of Communities here.