In Episode 032 of The United Methodist People Podcast Bishop Julius Trimble speaks to Rev. Dr. Brad Miller about his reaction and reflections on racism in the light of the killing of George Floyd in Minneapolis MN on May 25 by police officers and the subsequent nationwide marches and protests for civil rights, racial equality and police accountability.   

 

Bishop Trimble speaks about his own experiences as a black man in experiencing racism and describes how the matter of racism is systematic and is prevalent matter in the minds of all people of color.

 

He talks about his reaction to seeing the video of the killing of George Floyd and how it impacted himself and how he thought that event set into motion the protest for reform around the country.  He related how the killing has raised the consciousness of racism to the surface for while people.

 

Bishop Trimble went on to describe the biblical foundations for speaking to peace and justice and racism and  how our churches and clergy can step up their involvement in the movement to creating a beloved community.   He believe the the call that Black Lives Matter is a part of the role of Christians and the church to value the lives of all people and that a true beloved community cannot be created apart from this call.

 

Bishop Trimble closed his conversation with Rev. Dr. Brad by challenging anglo clergy and laity to take the next steps of peace, justice and racial harmony by prophetic teaching and activism in their ministry context.

 

The Untied Methodist People podcast is created by Rev. Dr. Brad Miller with the purpose of strengthening the connection in the United Methodist church through conversation and commentary.

 

June 8 2020

Rev. Dr. Brad Miller