Letter from Jon, July 2020 

 Dear Church Family
 
It is just over one month since the death of George Floyd in police custody in Minneapolis, a shocking event recorded on video for all the world to see, and which triggered an uprising throughout the world, peaceful and otherwise, under the banner of ‘Black Lives Matter’.  I confess that Fiona and I have been largely ignorant about the extent of racial injustice and discrimination across the world and indeed in our own country, not initially understanding the need for a 'Black Lives Matter' slogan.  After all, as followers of Jesus don't we all believe that all lives matter?  Prompted by the protests however we've been on another steep learning curve, learning why we do in fact need a Black Lives Matter slogan and that discrimination against black lives is right on our own doorstep.
 
I have been shocked and ashamed about what I have heard, as I know have many others.  I feel embarrassed at my ignorance and silence.  I've heard it said recently that it is not enough to say that you are not a racist but that we have to be actively anti-racism, and the more I have considered that the more I realise how true it is.  I have never considered myself to be racist but I find myself examining my own heart and attitudes again and asking what I need to do differently.  When I look at Jesus I see someone who actively disturbed the norms of society, spending time with the marginalised and the oppressed and even starting conversations with others who were different, as Stella showed us recently with his conversation with the Samaritan woman at the well. 
 
God has placed Liberty Church within a diverse community of people to bring hope, grace and acceptance to all we meet, and I know that we would want our Church to be a place where all felt welcome and part of the family.  Can I encourage you to consider your own thoughts and actions, to talk about the issue of race within life groups and with those you meet, and to start conversations with those of a different ethnic background; to actively reach out to those who are different.  I am not sure what long term change will result from the events of the last month, but I know that we, the church, have been called to be light in the darkness and to point people towards the God who so loved all the world that he gave his Son.
 
Love and Blessings
 
Jon