A Statement on Racism and Violence
June 2020
Understanding that silence in the face of systemic racism, injustice, and violence, particularly against our African-American brothers and sisters in Christ, cannot be tolerated, Church Council, with the assistance of the Church’s ministers, has prepared the following statement, which we think adequately reinforces and, in effect re-states, St. John’s Baptist Church’s long-held position on such evils.
As committed followers of Jesus Christ, the members of St. John’s Baptist Church of Charlotte, North Carolina condemn systemic racism in all its forms and the ways in which it contributes to our problems today. We recognize that we minister in a world that includes racism, injustice, hatred, and violence. Our covenant states, “We will be a servant church, recognizing the infinite worth of every person and believing that Christ has called us to active involvement in behalf of human brotherhood.” Therefore, we strongly condemn the recent violence witnessed across our country, particularly the violence against our African-American brothers and sisters, whose lives matter to us. Our congregation has historically raised its voice and initiated active faith against the systematic injustice in our society. We shall continue our ministries to dismantle injustice, to bring opportunity and dignity to every person, and to explore ways we can do better to create a more just world for every person, regardless of background, skin color, sexual orientation, or faith tradition.
Our plan is to also post this statement on the Church’s website and on its social media pages. This statement is merely the beginning of a long conversation on these issues.
Please join me, your deacon leadership, and your Church ministers in giving voice to what we’ve all long-believed and followed here at the corner of 5th and Hawthorne.
God bless,
Jason Benton
2019-2020 Deacon Chair
