Activities during week of Aug. 24 will affirm Black Lives Matter movement

LOUISVILLE — As the country continues to reckon with its history of racism and oppression of Black and brown people and take steps toward healing, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) is planning to host a Week of Action Aug. 24-30.

The week will provide a variety of ways for Presbyterians and other individuals to show their support for the Black Lives Matter movement and those who tend to be marginalized by society because of their race, ethnicity, gender or sexual orientation.

“The Presbyterian Church cares, knows what’s going on, and we’re beyond just making statements,” said the Rev. Shanea D. Leonard, the lead organizer of the Week of Action. “We’re hoping that anyone that is willing to and able to will get involved in some way.”

The Week of Action is a collaborative effort by the Presbyterian Mission Agency (PMA), the Office of General Assembly (OGA) and the Administrative Services Group (ASG). READ FULL STORY→

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

Note: More information, including how to register for events, will be added as details become available.

◾ Monday 8/24: Global Day of Solidarity

The Global Day of Solidarity is a day to hear about and experience the support of our siblings from around the world and to witness their experiences of racism in their own context.

◾ Tuesday 8/25: Town Hall

The Town Hall Gathering is an opportunity to engage with theologians, community activists, pastors and practitioners on the intersectional work of anti-racism, how the PC(USA) in all its expressions grapples with the legacy of white supremacy and racism in our history and theology, finds ways to do prophetic and renewing work in current moments for racial justice, and how we can listen to and come alongside community and national leaders to show up together for racial justice. This event will be at 1:30 p.m. EDT. Registration information available soon.

◾ Wednesday 8/26: Liberation Bible Study and Twitterstorm

The Liberation Bible Study: In a time of so much information, it can be hard to know where to begin to resource ourselves in a loving and ethical way that is true to the Good News of the Gospel. We will hear from practical theologian scholars on how they approach the lectionary with through a liberation foundation to equip us for a more faithful service.

On Twitter, from 12–1 p.m. EDT, engage in discussion around some of the week’s previous events. Follow @Presbyterian for discussion prompts. Use #WeekofActionPCUSA to join the conversation.

◾ Thursday 8/27: BLACKOUT Day and COVID-19 Memorial

All year long, Presbyterian Women joins the World Council of Churches in “Thursdays in Black” to protest gender-based violence. Throughout the day, we will share information about ways Presbyterians can support ministries and efforts that benefit Black communities in preparation for Give 828 Day (also known as “Give Black Day”) the following day, which is a national effort to encourage giving to Black-led non-profits. We urge the entire denomination to wear black in solidarity with both “Thursdays in Black” and the struggle for Black lives.

The COVID-19 Memorial will be a uniquely sacred moment to pause and remember those we have lost during the pandemic.

◾ Friday 8/28: Documentary Premiere and Young Adult Round Table

Join the Office of the General Assembly and the Presbyterian Mission Agency for the premiere of their collaborative documentary series and e-course titled Trouble the Water: Conversations to Disrupt Racism and Dominance. Attendees will watch episode one of the series and then join a round table discussion of racial justice organizers and leaders. Registration information available soon.

The Young Adult Round Table is an opportunity to have a conversation with and see how young people are engaging and processing faith in the midst of racial and health pandemics.

◾ Saturday 8/29: Rally/ Public Action

Engage the entire denomination in a multi-city rally that calls attention and action to the racial injustice happening in our country. This will include various speakers, music, poets, etc.

◾ Sunday 8/30: Day of Service

This day encourages congregations and mid-councils to engage in service to their communities following worship. Info sheet available soon with volunteer opportunities and ideas.