For congregations that are already engaged in ongoing anti-racism work and are ready to tackle more difficult materials and take more concrete steps, Level Three is for you. This level focuses on facing hard truths and moving from education into visible action. Here, we begin to challenge the symbols, language, and structures that have perpetuated white supremacy, even unknowingly, in our faith communities.
Our Goals for Level Three are to:
Recognize and critically examine the symbols, language, and theologies that perpetuate white supremacy within our church.
Prepare to move from education into concrete, visible action, including direct community engagement and allyship.
Become more equipped to offer solidarity, support, and pastoral care to marginalized communities.
Suggested Activities to get you started:
Conduct a Critical Theological Reflection & Worship Audit. Form a committee to review your worship life, identifying where whiteness is centered in hymns, prayers, images, and leadership roles. This audit can reveal subtle but powerful ways your church may be unintentionally perpetuating norms that exclude.
Prepare for Community Engagement & Crisis Response. Begin planning for engagement opportunities outside your church walls, and consider forming an early-stage “crisis response team” that can mobilize if racially charged incidents occur internally, locally, or nationally. This team can offer solidarity, support, and pastoral care in moments of need, drawing on wisdom from other organizations.
Explore Inter-faith Learning. Connect with local synagogues, mosques, or community centers that are well-versed in security and crisis response. Their experience and guidance can be invaluable for a congregation seeking to become a more visible and active ally.
Introduce advanced resources that help leaders and members become more aware of harmful imagery and language, making it clear why these resources are being used and how they contribute to awareness.
Next Step: If your congregation is ready for Level Three, visit the Level Three page on our website to access the resources and begin planning your next steps toward meaningful action.