We, the Association of Partners in Christian Education, value faith formation for all ages, stages, and walks of life. As we continue to learn and grow as baptized people, we acknowledge a lack of diversity in our organization. As followers of Jesus Christ, we admit we fall short in acting upon what we hear, not listening to all voices at the table. We acknowledge that our actions, both implicit and explicit, have stifled these voices long silenced. Jesus calls us to inclusiveness, which we seek to embody as we wrestle with how to achieve diversity, equity, and justice.

• We define diversity as creating and preserving a place at the table for all of God’s children regardless of color and its racialization, gender and/or sexual identity, ability, denomination, economic circumstance, culture, nationality, or other barriers to participation.
• We define equity as the good fruits of God’s intention, striving to bring special attention to those who have traditionally been treated unequally and unjustly.
• We define justice as giving support and comfort to the “least of these” – the outsiders, the powerless, and the voiceless.

Diversity Task Force Report

Our Diversity Task Force began their work three years ago, and we are extremely thankful for those who gave of their time, long hours, and commitment to this project.  Their final report has been received by your Coordinating Council and is attached (and again will be on the app) for your review. There is a letter from the Executive Council that outlines some of the next steps in this work of becoming a more equitable, just and diverse association.  We are committed to this work for APCE.

I look forward to seeing many of you in Birmingham and am thankful for your continued support of APCE.  I will be praying for safe travel for all that are making their way to the conference.

Renda R. Brinson, APCE President