Commission on the Beloved Community
Eradicating racism and embodying God's vision of love, justice, and reconciliation.
Who We Are
The Commission on the Beloved Community helps lead the Susquehanna Conference in examining every aspects of ministry to dismantle explicit and implicit racial bias. Grounded in the Northeastern Jurisdiction's 2016 Call to Action for Racial Justice, we work to cultivate equity, inclusion, and justice throughout our conference.
Our Priorities
Educate white clergy and laity to recognize privilege and implicit bias
Encourage anti-racist leadership, congregations, and communities that dismantle racism and foster healing and justice
Embrace, equip, and support clergy of color and the congregations they serve through fruitful cross-cultural ministry
What is the Beloved Community?
The term Beloved Community was first coined by philosopher Josiah Royce and later popularized by Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. as a vision of society grounded in agape love, justice, and reconciliation.
Dr. King believed this vision was both realistic and achievable - a community where racism, poverty, and violence are overcome through love, equity, and peace. Howard Thurman further taught that this transformation begins within each person and extends outward into society.
Key Features of the Beloved Community
Peaceful
Reconciliation
Compassionate
Community
Courageous
Justice
Faithful
Integrity
Our Roots in The United Methodist Church
Since its formation in 1968, The United Methodist Church has committed itself to confronting institutional racism. The creation of the General Commission on Religion and Race reflected that commitment by promoting equity, intercultural compentency, and justice across the denomination.
The Susquehanna Conference Commission on the Beloved Community continues that work locally, seeking to embody God's Kingdom through equity, reconciliation, and faithful action.
Taking Action
Building the Beloved Community calls for both Education (inner transformation) and Action (outer engagement).
- Education - cultivating compassion, humility, and radical inclusion
- Action - supporting ministries, advocacy, and partnerships that confront racism and injustice
Together, we strive for communities where love overcomes fear, justice replaces oppression, and every person is valued as a beloved child of God.
