R.A.C.E. Toward Jesus

A Juneteenth Small Group Resource

This Juneteenth, we invite you to explore a profound worship and study resource created by the General Commission on Religion and Race (GCORR). Adapted from the Lenten devotional resource “Transform Us: Journeying with Jesus Towards a New Church,” this devotional draws inspiration from themes in our Racial Justice Prayer and Action Challenge: lament, repentance, hope, liberation, healing, and reconciliation.

This worship and study resource centers around the R.A.C.E. framework, a structured approach for individual and communal reflection. This framework was initially part of the wrap-up time on day 7 of the “Transform Us” Lenten devotional and is now adapted for Juneteenth. The reflection prompts within this resource are tailored for both white and BIPOC participants, recognizing and honoring their distinct experiences.

The 6-session worship and study resource can be used for personal study and group reflection. Here’s a brief overview of the R.A.C.E. framework:

1. Reflect: Consider how white privilege and participation in white supremacy have influenced your perception of Jesus and your faith.
2. Assess: Identify the areas in which repentance may be necessary.
3. Challenge: Confront the white normative perspectives that shape your engagement with Jesus and your faith, both individually and within your community.
4. Encounter: Discover Jesus anew through non-dominant cultural lenses.

The goal of this framework is to provide both white and BIPOC participants an opportunity to examine how systemic oppression and racism impact and harm humanity. Facilitators are encouraged to guide participants in using this time for deep self-reflection. Participants can write their reflections in a journal, jot them down on paper, or simply sit in quiet contemplation, reflecting on each prompt of the R.A.C.E. framework.

Our prayer is that as you engage with this Juneteenth resource during the Pentecost season, the Spirit of God will meet you in a fresh, transformative way, renewing your heart, mind, and spirit. May you encounter Jesus anew on your faith journey!

To download the Juneteenth Small Group Resource PDF, click here.

We hope this resource enriches your Juneteenth observance and deepens your understanding of racial justice within the framework of our faith.

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