In 2020, many in our congregation (and our nation) recoiled from witnessing the evidence of social injustice in the U.S. In response, the St. Mark’s Adult Spiritual Growth team offered a season of learning about racism, equity and justice with three studies that Fall: “White Fragility,” a 21-Day Racial Equity Challenge and “Be the Bridge.” Following these studies, those who felt called to do more formed a Racial Equity Task Force. Its purpose was to provide a plan and lay the groundwork for change in ourselves, our church and our community. It started by creating a vision and mission statement for St. Mark’s.
Vision Statement
St. Mark’s is a beacon of racial justice and compassion.
Mission Statement
To open our hearts and minds to listen, learn and take actions to foster racial justice and social equity.
Our initial focus as a church is deepening our understanding through education.
Current classes available here.
We created a list of racial equity resources for personal learning. It includes historical timelines and current issues, including a local Tucson focus and personal stories. Click here.
Statement on Racial Justice from the United Methodist Church Constitution (Article V):
The United Methodist Church proclaims the value of each person as a unique child of God and commits itself to the healing and wholeness of all persons. The United Methodist Church recognizes that the sin of racism has been destructive to its unity throughout its history. Racism continues to cause painful division and marginalization. The United Methodist Church shall confront and seek to eliminate racism, whether in organizations or in individuals, in every facet of its life and in society at large. The United Methodist Church shall work collaboratively with others to address concerns that threaten the cause of racial justice at all times and in all places.
Monthly Devotional
November 2024 Devotion
In recognition of Native American Heritage Month in the U.S., we offer these worship resources written by Rev. Delana Taylor, Local Pastor from the Oklahoma Indian Missionary Conference.
Native American History Month Resources
PRAYER
Creator God, as you have gathered us in generations past, lead and guide us this day
As we seek your wisdom and your vision for our people.
Give us eyes to see one another as you see us,
People of one God,
Connected to one another and to you
In all our relations, and in your son Jesus.
Give us ears to hear the wisdom of our elders
And the laughter of our children.
Give us words of blessing and healing for a hurting world.
Open our hearts and lead us on the path of peace.
We stand together on sacred ground with grateful hearts,
Knowing that the One who promises is faithful and true.
Amen.