Should Every Church Congregation Be Racially Diverse?
Here is my response to the often cited concern that every local church should be racially diverse:
It's a good idea, but it is an idealistic and impractical notion. It is something which is not feasible for all congregations. 13% of our Black population cannot equally bear this burden with 65% of our White population.
Jesus said, “For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more." If racial diversity within congregations is the stated objective and if diversity is the standard by which churches will be measured, White believers should disperse into Black and Latino congregations. Presently, nearly all of the diversity is being accomplished by minorities attending majority congregations.
For minority populations, congregational "diversity" (as it relates to reflecting the composition of the population, excluding tokenism) may equal diminishing influence, and ultimately cultural marginalization. Taken to its logical conclusion, white folks end up in charge of everything.
Segregation is something very specific in our history. When Dr. King spoke of it on "Sunday morning," he was talking about injustice. To use his quote today is out of context and disingenuous. Where you choose to worship and serve is not segregation.
Diversity in fellowship, partnership and service to our community is a practical idea from which everyone benefits.
