Working for change

Updated on

Dear friends,

We posted the following statement last Sunday.  We hope you have found your own way to speak and act in this critical time.  It will take all of us working together to bring about the healing, justice, peace, and change so desperately needed now.  With God’s help.

As an organization committed to social justice and racial reconciliation, Richmond Hill stands in solidarity with African Americans and their allies who are peacefully protesting anti-black violence. Unfortunately, any mass protest offers opportunity for people to exploit these actions. This should not be held against the protesters who are righteously indignant and making their voices heard.
You may know that recently Richmond Hill has been researching black lives on our land. That history includes enslavement, the Jim Crow and more. Policing of African Americans has deep roots in this country. The proverbial knee has been on the necks of black people from before the nation’s founding. That sad history lives in this moment. Today is a continuation of the past. African Americans need air — and we must all work to see they have it.
In these times, silence is unacceptable. We must speak out for police reform and change. Zyahna Bryant, an activist from Charlottesville, offers additional ways that we all can help.
As has been said, let us put legs on our prayers.

— Richmond Hill

We’re looking forward to:

  • Poverty, the Pandemic and Personal Stories from the Frontline – our Koinonia School of Race and Justice invites you to a webinar on Tuesday, June 9, at 7:00 PM with physician Erik Martin and researcher Imani Randolf.  Both have been on the front line of the Covid-19 pandemic in New York and have important information and stories to share about health and resource disparities further revealed by this crisis.  Click here for more details and to register.
  • Listening to the Silence – Tuesday, June 9, from 10 AM – 3 PM with Rita Ricks – a virtual framework for deepening into silence wherever you are. Sign up here or with Rita directly.
  • Tuesday Community Worship – continue to join us at 5:30 PM on Tuesday evenings on our Facebook page for a brief service of worship led by members of our staff and community.
  • Centering Prayer – join the weekly group on Tuesday, June 9, at 7:30 PM or another group in the city by contacting Becky Robinson, Chapter Coordinator of Contemplative Outreach of Richmond and Co-Leader of our Tuesday night group, at bbtsmi@aol.com.
  • Monte Maria Chapel Turns 125 Years Old – Wednesday, June 10 marks the 125th anniversary of the dedication of our chapel.  Join us on Facebook at noon for Midday Prayers and a brief telling of the history of the chapel and a virtual tour.
  • Men’s and Women’s Circles – Thursday, June 11, at 7:00 PM Men’s Circle – Practice the Way of Council virtually Thursday night, May 14, 7:00-8:30 PM via Zoom.  Send an email to info@richmondhillva.org to receive the Zoom link.
  • Song and a Prayer to Close the Day – Every evening at 9 PM from Richmond Hill, an abbreviated compline service is live streamed on our Facebook page.

Other news:

  • Juneteenth Zoom Gathering – in commemoration of the anniversary of the ending of slavery in the United States, join us on Thursday evening, June 19, from 7:00-8:15 PM for a conversation on roots, rights, redemption and you as we search for an answer to the question What does it mean to be free?  More details here.
  • The Community Foundation for a Greater Richmond awarded $9,000 to our Armstrong Leadership Program to assist with the needs of food insecure students and families during this time of pandemic.

To learn more about any of the above opportunities or to be connected with a prayer partner or spiritual director, please contact us at (804) 783-7903 or info@RichmondHillVA.org.  Visit our website or Facebook page for updates.

Thank you for your continued support and engagement with Richmond Hill during this time of separation.

Working for change,
Lisa and Joel

You may donate to our Annual Fund by clicking here or mailing a check to Richmond Hill, 2209 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23223.