October 20, 2022
Arlington Korean United Methodist Church recently launched a sermon and learning series on inclusivity and building new relationship. The series, based on the scripture in Galatians 3:18 (“There is neither Jew nor Gentile, neither slave nor free, nor is there male and female, for you are all one in Christ Jesus“) is designed to help the church better understand what it means to be in relationship with its neighbors.
Senior Pastor Rev. Ryu believes that by deepening their understanding of this scripture, the church can faithfully live out its calling to be in ministry with those across different races, cultures, religions, and socio-economic backgrounds.
The series includes a variety of discussions, presentations, sermons, and group activities led by various community and church leaders. Sunday worship will include speakers and preachers who are working to create a more inclusive and unbiased community.
Speakers are invited to share their stories and experiences of what it means to build an inclusive and diverse community. The speakers are often asked to share how their understanding of faith has come to include forming cross-racial and cross-cultural relationships.
“We hope this series will help our church members see that we all have a role to play in building God’s diverse community. We become a stronger body of Christ when we work together and learn from one another,” states Rev. Ryu.
The church leaders have also invited speakers from United Methodist Church entities, including the General Board of Church and Society and the General Commission on Religion and Race. The hope is that all will learn about these ministries of the church and be able to strengthen their relationships through true connection.
Rev. Ryu reminds us that, “Our church comprises mostly first-generation Korean immigrants. It’s easy to stay in our bubble and remain within our own community, but we know that God calls us to minister to and minister with others in our neighborhood. This series is an important step in that direction.”
In the coming months, the church plans to engage in various community outreach activities with local non-profits in the city of Arlington. Through these outreach activities, the church seeks to make a difference in our world, while sharing the love of God.
Jeehye Kim Pak, Sr. Director of Communications and Marketing of GCORR, was invited to speak at Arlington Korean UMC on September 4, 2022. She spoke about how her journey of faith has led her to work for racial justice. She shared how cross-racial and cross-cultural relationships have impacted her understanding of God and doing the work of bringing righteousness into our everyday lives.
This series is one way that Arlington Korean United Methodist Church is working to build community beyond its church walls. What are some other ways that churches can work towards this goal? Share your thoughts with us on Facebook or Twitter.
#inclusivechurch #koreanumc #arlingtonva #UMC #GCORR
