Race should not be an issue that divides us, especially Christians who believe that all are created in the image and likeness of God. Yet, the issue continues to put a wedge between humans, dividing us and inciting our indignation and rage.
This is not how it was meant to be, as Jesus desired that all humanity be united under him.
I pray not only for them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us. (John 17:20-21)
Let us never tire in fighting for unity and pray to God that true and lasting healing will occur.
Here is a prayer published by the USCCB that prays to God for healing of all racial divisions and may be an appropriate prayer to pray on a daily basis.
We thank you, O Lord,For in your loving wisdomYou created one human familyWith a diversityThat enriches our communities.We pray to you, O Lord,That we always recognizeeach member of this human familyAs being made in your image and beloved by you,With worth and dignity.We pray to you, O Lord,That we may envision a way forwardTo heal the racial divisionsThat deny human dignity andthe bonds between all human beings.We pray to you, O LordThat we may affirm each person’s dignityThrough fair access for allTo economic opportunity, housing,Education, and employment.We pray to you, O Lord,That we may have eyes to seeWhat is possible when we reach outBeyond fear, beyond anger,To hold the hand of our sisters, our brothers.We thank you, O Lord,For your call and challenge to usThat we may reveal your teachings and your loveThrough our actions to end racismAnd to proclaim that we are all your children,heirs to your sacred creation.Amen.Copyright © 2018, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. All rights reserved. This text may be reproduced in whole or in part without alteration for nonprofit educational use, provided such reprints are not sold and include this notice.
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Saints who fought racism
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“Racism is a sin that denies the truth about God and his creation”: US bishops on MLK Day
And today we celebrate...