WASHINGTON, D.C. – In the aftermath of police killings of unarmed Black people, the bishops of The United Methodist Church today called on all United Methodists to act now by using their voices, pens, feet and hearts to end racism.

In a statement released by Council of Bishops President Bishop Cynthia Fierro Harvey, the bishops are urging every United Methodist to reclaim their baptismal vows to resist evil, injustice, and oppression in whatever forms they present themselves.

“We ask every United Methodist to name the egregious sin of racism and white supremacy and join together to take a stand against the oppression and injustice that is killing persons of color,” the statement said.

The bishops said they are joining with other church leaders and boards and agencies of the United Methodist Church to add strength to the message that “we will no longer remain silent nor complicit but must act now!”   

As part of the that pledge, for at least the next 30 days, all United Methodists everywhere are asked to join in prayer at 8:46 a.m. and p.m. for 8 minutes and 46 seconds, the time the officer held his knee on George Floyd’s neck.  “Pray for all persons of color who suffer at the hands of injustice and oppression.  Pray for our church as we take a stand against racism.”

Click here to read the full statement from the Council of Bishops.

Note: If you travel to the Twin Cities area you might see digital billboards with the message, "United Methodists stand against racisms." The billboards, designed and sponsored by United Methodist Communicaitons, are along I-35W, I-35E, and / or I-694S. 

Resources:
Why Black Lives Matter: A Spiritual View
Five Tips for Addressing Racism with Children
Ways United Methodists can stand against racism
Racial Justice Conversations Guide