Sunday Morning Class: The Old Testament and Reparations

Reparations involves making amends for a wrong that has been done, taking action to repair torn or frayed relationships. In a contemporary context, reparations often refers to taking action to repair the damage done by the legacy of slavery and the ongoing impact of systemic racism. Opinions on reparations run deep; information, on the other hand, is frequently shallow. Restoring relationships is a central theme of Jesus’s teaching. As we grow into our anti-racist identity as a congregation and as Christians, what do we need to learn about restoring relationships and making amends for past wrongs?

Throughout the summer and fall, we’ll be taking periodic looks into reparations from a variety of perspectives. This Sunday, Carol Hodges will lead us in a conversation about reparations from an Old Testament perspective. She will draw on an recent Christian Century article, “Saving the Egyptians,” written by Matthew Schlimm, a member of our church when he was in his early teen years. Matt is now in his mid-forties, a professor of Old Testament at Dubuque University Theological Seminary in Iowa, a United Methodist pastor, and a member of the Michigan Conference. Come join us for a thought-provoking look at reparations and what the Old Testament has to say about them. The class will meet in the Parlor at 11:15am. Participants may also join by Zoom.

CLICK HERE to join this conversation on Zoom on Sunday, June 5 after worship.
Meeting ID: 858 1867 6776   (No passcode needed, Carol uses the waiting room feature.)

Note: The series will continue on Sunday, June 12 as Jennifer Clark looks at the way poets have struggled with reparations.