What does racial reconciliation in the church look like? Listen as Susie talks with Laurel Bunker, dean of campus ministries for Bethel University. We talk about what it means to have a church with people from every tribe, every tongue, and every nation.

“It’s important for us to realize that no matter what God asks us to do, He’s already given us the power to do it. We who are reconciled to Him must also do that work [with others]… when we separate from other people who are not like us, we are staying in a place of … preference. God doesn’t call us to preference. He calls us to understand.”

Laurel grew up in an era where African-Americans were not represented in the media or in the marketplace – there were no African-American models or newscasters. There were no cosmetics, nylons, or Band-Aids for women with darker skin. She was rejected by many because of her affluence coupled with her ethnicity.

“I’ve learned what it is to keep my eyes on Christ. If I were to live out of anger or resentment, there’s no way I’d be able to speak and lead a predominantly white campus. For the sake of the Church, for the sake of this generation, we have to get this right.”

Laurel powerfully unpacks

• Why the Church needs to lead the way in reconciliation.

• Why the conversation is “not just a race issue, but a justice issue”.

• Common stereotypes and how we can recognize our own biases.

• The heavenly picture of worship and how we can start to image that here on earth.

• How to overcome fear and discomfort.

For those who have walked through trials, rejection, prejudice, and violence, Laurel has a powerful invitation – don’t run from the Church.

“We need your story. We need to respect the power of your story. There are more people who are for you, and for reconciliation, than those who are against you.”

Key Scriptures: 2 Corinthians 5:16-20; Ephesians 2:11-20

Theme Song: Press On by Mandisa

Highlight : Learn from the past

Heavenly worship

This program has been previously aired.