Well before the tragic events including and surrounding the shooting death of Michael Brown began to unfold, we had already planned to begin the next Academy for Faith & Life series on the topic of “Race, Religion and the Dream of a Beloved Community.” Now, of course, it seems all the more pertinent to do so. In this series, we will reflect on the continuing legacy of racism in America — what has often been referred to as “America’s original sin” — as well as the ways we might find solidarity and support in our shared struggle to overcome it. Not only will we gain a deeper understanding of what is meant by phrases such as “white privilege” and “systemic sin/racism,” we will pay attention to the ways in which religion has helped — as well as hindered — the dream of a beloved community built on the biblical dream of justice, righteousness and peace. Come prepared to do serious introspection and exploration. This will not be an easy conversation, but we believe it will be a faithful one.
Dates and Times
Wednesday evenings from 6:30-8:00 p.m. beginning Sept. 3 and concluding Oct. 22
Facilitators
Phil Snider & Camielle Famous
Books
Race Matters by Cornel West
The New Jim Crow by Michelle Alexander
The Church Enslaved by Tony Campolo and Michael Battle
Killing Rage by bell hooks
Registration
– Registration fee is $25 (all proceeds go directly toward supporting the Greater Springfield Center for Diversity and Reconciliation)
– Please RSVP by emailing brentwoodchristianchurch@gmail.com
– All are welcome to register, even if not a participant at Brentwood
About the Academy for Faith & Life
The Academy for Faith and Life at Brentwood Christian Church provides an opportunity for participants from both the congregation and the wider community to engage theological and ethical topics in an in-depth manner not usually found in conventional church study groups. The Academy for Faith and Life explores topics related to religion and culture that is similar to what might be found at the university (and at times even the seminary) level and at the same time provides tools for cultivating individual and societal transformation, all based on an approach to Christianity that values both the mind and the heart.
Two courses are generally offered each year (concurrent with fall and spring semesters) and meet on Wednesday evenings for 6-10 weeks. Each is taught by Rev. Snider unless otherwise announced. Participants are expected to read three to four books per course. All registration fees directly support the Center for Diversity and Reconciliation, an organization dedicated to promoting, advocating, and working toward economic dignity, race equity, social justice, and equal rights for all people in the greater Springfield area. A limited number of scholarships (based on financial need) are available.
The Brentwood Christian Church Blog 
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