Each and every human being is worthy of God’s love and grace and, as Christ’s followers, we are called to live out that truth. This was modeled for us by Jesus Christ, who treated every person, regardless of how society viewed them, as one the Father loves.

Read our leadership's statement about racial justice.

This past winter, our leadership went through diversity, equity, and inclusion training. Following that, our church launched a book club to read Roadmap to Reconciliation 2.0 by Brenda Salter McNeil together as a church community, including our staff. In addition, on May 22, 2021, we partnered with over 30 churches in the Bay Area in solidarity against hatred and racism with a prayer vigil, “Stronger Together.” 

Our staff has created an internal Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) team with representation from all our campuses. This group’s purpose is to strategically and critically think of ways to tangibly implement change across our ministries and staff. It is an action-minded group that is divided into three teams: book club next steps, community collaboration with other nonprofits and partners, and staff awareness. Our staff DEI team is aiming to implement a few initiatives during the latter part of 2021, and we look forward to sharing them with you as decisions are made. If you have questions about our DEI team, contact Jadine. 

Meaningful racial reconciliation takes time. It's a journey that we plan to continue as a church in the months and years ahead. We are grateful for your support and engagement as we take this journey.

LEARN

Watch Brenda Salter McNeil's message, Journey to Reconciliation.

Watch a special Menlo Church Q&A with Dr. Brenda Salter McNeil in which she discusses the next steps we can take in our journey of racial reconciliation.

Looking for more resources? Here are some recommended books and videos compiled by Sarah Akutagawa, Menlo Member in Mission, and National Director of Diversity with InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. Additionally, the Asian American Christian Collaborative offers a wide variety of resources that cover anti-Asian racism and more. 

RESPOND

Looking for more ways to respond to racial brokenness and systemic injustice? Check out Be the Bridge, a community rooted in scripture that equips people to address these issues. In addition, the following resources give practical tips for every day situations. While written from the perspective of the Asian community, the principles could help in many contexts.

How to respond to racist comments
Safety tips when you experience or witness hate

SERVE

Find some relationship-centered opportunities to SERVE our community through our ministry partners.

PRAY

There are many ways to fight for positive change and, as Christians, our starting point is prayer. Pray for healing in our community, humility to learn, and wisdom in our words and actions. As you pray, listen for what God may be asking you to pursue as a next step.

Watch our Worship and Prayer Night - June 11, 2020