Faithful Connections: Understanding Ableism, Beloved Community, Equity, and Intersectionality

The current climate of our country and world is deeply polarized and divided, with active efforts to erase cultures and experiences that are not recognized or accepted by the dominant culture. This erasure rejects the beauty of diverse abilities, equitable communities, and intersectional identities. It fosters disconnection, encouraging humanity to deny, dismiss, and erase the image of God in those who do not look like us or share our background and experiences.

This essay series seeks to engage with terms central to the work of dismantling racism within the global landscape of both church and society.

As an extension of our “What Is?” series, we are pleased to offer GCORR’s Faithful Connections—a deeper exploration of concepts related to institutional equity, antiracism, and tribalism. Each essay examines a term through historical, theological, and experiential lenses, emphasizing the importance of the intersections of faith through the framework of the Wesley Quadrilateral (Scripture, Tradition, Reason, and Experience).

What You’ll Find Inside

• Pre-work – Comprised of a video link and a general and specific reflection question to orient participant engagement.

• Scholarly, In-Depth Essays – Each piece offers historical analysis, theological reflection, and real-world application. 

• Critical Reflection – Questions guide readers to wrestle with implications for faith, identity, and practice. 

• Facilitator Support – Designed for seminary classrooms, clergy gatherings, or advanced congregational studies. 

• Practical Next Steps – Recommendations for moving from theory to action in building just and equitable communities.  

Why This Matters

Faithful Connections challenges readers to move beyond introductory conversations into sustained study and action. By engaging with this resource, leaders will: 

• Deepen their theological grounding for dismantling racism. 

• Connect deeper with the lived realities of marginalized communities. 

• Equip themselves and others for faithful, justice-centered ministry in a polarized world.  

Essays in This Series

• Ableism – by Rev. Justin Hancock 

• Beloved Community – by Rev. Dr. C. Anthony Hunt 

• Equity – by Rev. April Casperson 

• Intersectionality – by Rev. Dr. Valerie L. Jackson 

💡 Faithful Connections is available for purchase at $80. Invest in this advanced resource for your classroom, congregation, or leadership team, and take the next faithful step toward equity and justice.