Since when has cultural and racial diversity been important to the church? We have been challenged to cultural and racial diversity from the very beginning; it is our missionary mandate.
“Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.”
Matthew 28: 19-20 (NABRE)
“And they were all filled with the holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them to proclaim.”
Acts 2:4 (NABRE)
Cultural and racial diversity has many other Biblical roots as well.
“For my house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples.”
Isaiah 56:7
“With your blood you purchased for God those from every tribe and tongue, people and nation.”
Revelation 5: 9
“After this I had a vision of a great multitude, which no one could count, from every nation, race, people, and tongue. They stood before the throne and before the Lamb, wearing white robes and holding palm branches in their hands. They cried out in a loud voice: “Salvation comes from our God, who is seated on the throne, and from the Lamb.”
Revelation 7: 9-10
Even the scriptural vision for the future is inclusive of the diversity of all peoples and cultures.
Reflection Question
What does this mean for me, and what specific action can I take to help my community or parish become more welcoming, inclusive, and responsive to people from different cultural and racial backgrounds?
