RECONCILIATION IN NORFOLK--From left: Ron Robinson, Keith Brittain,
Curtis May, Steve Brown, Emory Jones and Stan Murphy.
By Gail Singleton Taylor
VIRGINIA BEACH, Virginia--The Norfolk, Virginia, congregation, pastored by Stan and Saundria Murphy, was host to a racial reconciliation workshop May 16 and 17.
Members also attended from Richmond, Virginia, and a number of congregations in North Carolina.
During the morning of May 16, Curtis May, regional pastor in Pasadena, and Steve Brown, pastor of the Clearwater, Florida, congregation, conducted the racial reconciliation workshop.
The goals of the workshop were to increase awareness and sensitivity, strengthen relationships, encourage greater appreciation for cultural diversity and avoid polarization.
Both pastors shared their experiences with facing prejudice and racism. Members also learned about dealing with internalized racism.
An apology was made to and from the African-American brethren who have been affected by racism in the WCG.
After a break, church members shared incidences of prejudice as well. The workshop concluded with a buffet luncheon.
A worship service took place that afternoon. Members heard sermons by the workshop leaders and a testimonial by Ron Robinson, an elder from Montvale, New Jersey.
Members were treated to inspirational music from soloist Corliss White of Norfolk, and gospel groups, the Fayetteville Freedom Singers and the Jacksonville New Birth Gospel Choir.
The next day a WCG-African-American Cultural Event took place. The master of ceremonies was Keith Brittain, regional pastor for Virginia and North Carolina. A buffet luncheon and an African-inspired fashion show wrapped up the weekend.
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