Articles
We post several short articles per month, tackling complicated issues and giving space for Christians to share their experiences about race in an edifying way. Longer essays are a scholarly contribution to UWP. They examine racism in the church in light of historical and theological contexts. Both Short-Form and Long-Form essays are written by people burdened with racial reconciliation in the church.
Learning from the History of the African-American Missionary Movement
Courtney Reissig shares what she has recently learned about the history of African American Missionaries and reflects on the implications for the broader church.
John Lewis: On Bridges, Movements, and Sharecropping Sons
Karen Ellis remembers John Lewis and reflects on the indispensability of prayer for meaningful change.
Meet the Black Church: Absalom Jones
John Talley III spends some time reflecting on Absalom Jones, a key figure in American history who is not widely remembered.
How Can You Support Black Lives Matter or President Trump?
Michael Kelsey makes the case for extending the right to nuance consistently to our brothers and sisters.
In Memoriam: John Lewis
Dr. Kevin Smith remembers American hero, Rep. John Lewis.
Be Careful Before You Label Somebody
Pastor Eric Saunders gives some helpful questions to ask yourself before labeling your fellow image-bearer.
Does Just Preaching the Gospel Kill Racism?
Austin Suter answers a regular objection we receive–that if we’d just preach the gospel, racism would go away.
A Kind Providence, A Long-awaited Moment, in the Midst of a Pandemic and Nationwide Unrest
Dr. Ligon Duncan shares his experience of the retirement of the Mississippi state flag and some reflections on where he hopes this movement will go.
What Made Racial Violence Real to Me
Drew Bratcher gives a horrifying account of racial violence in his hometown over a century ago and describes how the event has shaped his thinking today.
Understanding the Past as a Way to a United Future (Part 2)
Pastor Bobby Scott concludes his reflection on American history by offering hopes and prayers for the future.