Greetings!
We are living in unprecedented times, confronted with a pandemic which has exposed injustice and racism long present but often ignored. As Episcopalians, we promise in our baptismal covenant to work for justice and peace, and respect the dignity of every human being. The work of acknowledging and deconstructing racism is part of our mandate as Christians. 

If you have been moved by the events of recent weeks, you may wonder where to go from here. Our Becoming Beloved Community group is creating opportunities for St. David’s to learn, pray and act in these tumultuous times and beyond. 
LEARN : We are creating a curated list of resources about racism: articles, books, films, documentaries, blogs addressing racism. This list will include resources for children and adults. If you know of resources you would like to share, please send your suggestions to BBC@sdlife.org . Look for this list on our St. David's website very soon.
Beloved Community 101 : What do we mean by beloved community? How do we define racism? What is white privilege? 'I'm not racist, am I?'
The topic of racism is difficult to talk about and often uncomfortable. If you have questions, or are curious but don't know where to start, come to this single session class on June 24, Wednesday at 7pm. We will define terms, outline the issues broadly and outline available resources. Come open the door.  

If you'd like to dive deeper, we will be offering a BBC class on line.  This small group will meet for six sessions to learn and share our experiences as we deepen our understanding of racism and its effects in the context of our baptismal covenant. Please contact Rev. Mary Kay if you are interested in being part of this group, which will start in July.  
PRAY : Please join Rev. Mary Kay for a time of prayer and conversation Wednesdays at 7pm. (Zoom link here). Bring prayers and inspirational writings that may have spoken to you.  Prayer is essential in these times, and powerful. All are welcome.
ACT :  We are creating a list of opportunities to act in ways great and small - in protests, demonstrations, walks, public forums in our own area. We’ll share what we know.  If you know of events taking place, please forward the information to BBC@sdlife.org .  
BBC is starting a subgroup to explore public policy and ways in which St. David’s can be an effective agent of change at local, state and national levels. We will keep you posted about this group as it develops.  

The BBC team welcomes the opportunity to learn, pray and act with you to work toward God's dream of justice and peace for all people.  

Blessings,

Rev. Mary Kay+