Brooklyn Church's Journey from Stained Glass to Social Justice

In the bustling heart of Brooklyn, the Old First Reformed Church stands not only as an architect’s dream but now also as a beacon of the urgent journey towards racial justice. The church’s majestic stained glass windows, though breathtaking, narrate an uncomfortable history, highlighting a darker chapter tied to slavery.

A History Rediscovered

The Old First Reformed Church is delving into its Dutch denominational roots revealing undeniable ties to the transatlantic slave trade. This historical audit has been led by the dedicated Remembrance and Racial Justice Working Group which meditatively sifts through legacy records, bringing to light the stories of those enslaved families of the founders tried to forget.

According to United Church of Christ, during this thorough exploration, the working group unearthed crucial narratives linking their church’s grandeur to unpaid labor from forgotten lives, weaving honesty into every stained glass piece.

Confronting the Past

Driven by a commitment to uncover truth, the church has started addressing these deep scars of the past by introducing QR-coded plaques beneath these stained windows. The initiative serves not only as a reminder but as an educational tool, narrating the lives of individuals who contributed to the church’s physical and spiritual foundations.

Building Relationships at the Table

The working group hasn’t stopped at uncovering truths. They regularly meet to discuss not only the church’s role in historical racial injustices but also reflect on personal biases and interpersonal relationships within their walls. This introspective work begins at “our table,” as the group’s leader, Jane Barber, calls it—emphasizing a need for broader empathy and deeper understanding.

Engaging in Spiritual Reflection

“It’s about spiritual work,” shares Rev. Cheri Kroon, the church pastor. This ongoing action isn’t merely procedural; it’s deeply transformative, seeking reconciliation and genuine change. By closely examining their heritage and the present racial landscape, Old First aims to live out its Christian mission authentically and with conscious integrity.

A Model for Change

The Old First Reformed Church and its congregation’s path towards racial justice stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community commits to confronting uncomfortable truths. Their journey stirs hope and serves as an exemplar for other faith groups yearning to make meaningful strides toward justice.

The church, as Rev. Kroon points out, is not just participating in a trend but embedding justice into the very heart of its community ethos. Through embracing past humiliations and educating themselves purposely, the church aims to model the way forward in dismantling systemic racism embedded within religious and community structures alike.