On September 27th, the Diversity & Reconciliation Commission for The Diocese of West Missouri had a workshop for clergy and lay leaders hosted by St. Peter & All Saints Episcopal Church.
The purpose of the workshop is to assist the diocese in eliminating the sin of racism, while fulfilling the intent of several General Convention resolutions. These resolutions call for leaders at all levels of The Episcopal Church to receive training on the Church’s teaching about racial diversity and other forms of diversity present within the human family.
“It is always encouraging to gather with others from the diocese engaged in similar work,” says Janette Platter, a participant during the workshop. ” The training included many opportunities for us to discuss questions and reflections together at our tables. I especially enjoyed learning about the history of our diocese and formative figures that shaped our own history, here.”
“Diversity training is important anywhere,” continues Platter. “…and especially so in our diocese where there is still a lot of segregation due to historic redlining and sundown towns and counties throughout Missouri. We represent and serve a diverse group of people; it’s our responsibility to do that with intention, learning from our mistakes and doing better for our future so that all feel safe and loved in our midst.
Photos of the event can be found below.
