As a queer Black Christian, the phrase "created in the image of God" resonates deeply with me. It is a profound truth, yet it often stirs tension when I reflect on my experiences in the world and the Church. Genesis 1:27 boldly declares that all humanity is made in God's image, affirming that every aspect of our being reflects God's creativity, love, and purpose. However, for those of us living at the intersections of marginalized identities, this divine affirmation can feel overshadowed by societal prejudices and systemic inequalities.
I often ask myself: What does it mean to be created in the image of God when the world seems to devalue parts of who I am? How do others interpret this sacred truth? While I know my identity is God-given and precious, the reality of being judged based on race, sexuality, or gender identity remains a constant challenge. It's a painful reminder that even within faith communities, the fullness of God's diversity is not always embraced.
Even in progressive Christian spaces, where inclusion and justice are prioritized, there are moments when I feel unseen or undervalued. While these communities often celebrate diversity, they can fall short of addressing the deeper systems of privilege and bias that continue to harm marginalized people. Microaggressions, unconscious biases, and unspoken assumptions can still linger, revealing that even the most well-intentioned spaces have more work to do.
This reality underscores a broader truth found in the United Church of Christ's Manual on Ministry. It emphasizes the call to "love God, neighbor, and self" and the ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:18-19). Building truly inclusive communities requires dismantling biases and fostering relationships rooted in mutuality, accountability, and love. Covenant relationships, as described in the Manual, remind us of our shared responsibility to represent Christ in unity and wholeness (John 17:21).
Despite my achievements and efforts to live faithfully, I am often reduced to stereotypes or dismissed because of who I am. Yet, when I return to the truth of being created in God's image, I find reassurance in my inherent worth—a worth that no one's biases can diminish.
Living into this truth requires radical self-love and acceptance. It means embracing the fullness of who God has made me to be and extending that same love and affirmation to others. God's image is not fragmented—it encompasses the beauty of our differences and the strength of our shared humanity.
I invite you to reflect on those verses mentioned earlier and ask yourself: How do you see God's image in yourself and others? How might we, as a Church, better affirm the diverse ways God's image is reflected in our community?
As part of its commitment to justice and equity, the United Church of Christ requires all authorized clergy to complete six hours of anti-racism training during the 2023–2027 cycle. The Culturally Responsive Ministry Training (CRMT) on Race, led by Rev. Gary T. Smith and Rev. Dr. Marsha Williams, helps clergy address cultural biases, examine personal assumptions, and navigate issues of race and racism in ministry.
The next session is on March 13, 2025, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. MST via Zoom. Registration costs $30, and a Zoom link will be provided on March 10. Clergy are encouraged to register early to participate in this vital justice and equity work. Let us walk together, celebrating that we are all wonderfully made in God's image and called to love one another as God first loved us. May we continue striving to embody this love more fully, ensuring that every space—whether in our churches or communities—is truly one of belonging, transformation, and hope for all.
Please register here. We’ll send out the Zoom link to all registrants on March 10.