Statement Against Racism
The Session first took up the issue of racism back in July as protests continued nationwide in the wake of George Floyd’s murder in May. We felt compelled as the elected and called leaders of the congregation to join this outpouring of voices, and to make plain that racism is sin.
We do not offer this view as though our moral insight is superior to others. Rather, we make this statement in deep humility and with profound regret that such pronouncements are even necessary in 21st century America.
While this statement draws from multiple denominational and church declarations against racism, it is equally the result of much prayer, reflection, and discussion within the Session. As the ruling elders and pastor of First Church, we welcome your comments and invite further dialogue.
Statement Against Racism
Adopted by the Session of First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo, September 16, 2020
We, the pastor and ruling elders of the First Presbyterian Church of Buffalo, as followers of Jesus Christ, affirm that our neighbors are of every race, color, and nation, and that every human being is a beloved child of God with inherent and sacred worth. Thus:
WE CONFESS that the pestilential sin of racism blights our community and that too often our congregation has stood silent;
WE MOURN those whose lives, livelihoods, and hope have been lost to racism;
WE CONDEMN racism in all its forms, wherever it dwells;
WE PRAY for God's mercy and grace for our congregation, and we pray for God's Spirit to usher in a new day of peace, reconciliation, and hope in our community and in the world.
Furthermore, relying on God's grace,
WE RESOLVE to confront racism, within ourselves, our congregation, and our community,
WE COMMIT ourselves to listen carefully to members and neighbors who may look or think differently than ourselves,
WE AFFIRM that seeking equal justice under law is at the core of the Church’s purpose.
WE SEEK God's wisdom for the way forward as we educate ourselves about the experiences of those whose skin is of a different color than our own.
As we move forward toward a more just society, we will deepen our commitment to:
WELCOMING into membership, leadership, and employment those who celebrate diversity and tolerance,
SERVING the poor and homeless of our community with compassion,
SUPPORTING local and global missions that address the needs of the vulnerable.
TOGETHER we denounce prejudice and embrace our members, friends, neighbors, and colleagues of every color, creed and nationality; their lives matter to God and to this congregation.