A Google search for any significant topic turns up a cacophony of conflicting opinions. This hopelessly murky situation is our new reality, and it is here to stay. But we believe it is important for Kingdom people to hold to the existence of objective facts, and to take responsibility, to the best of one’s ability, to discern what these facts … Read More
Jesus died to tear down the walls of hostility that divide all people groups in order to create in himself “one new humanity” free of division. [1] Jesus died to fulfill God’s original dream for humans to reflect God’s loving character through love for one another. So why do we keep bringing this up? Because it’s a central reason the … Read More
Whether you are white, black or brown, the Gospel tells us we are all sinners in need of a savior. [1] So of course an individual black or brown person may be as prejudiced as any white individual. In addition, anyone can be discriminated against for any number of reasons. Some people are discriminated against because of their poverty, gender … Read More
You may wonder what this has to do with you if you don’t personally hate black people and you may wonder if you should be held responsible for other people’s past decisions? Certainly you are not responsible for your ancestor’s individual choices. But when it comes to racism in America, your personal responsibility doesn’t tell the whole story. In America, … Read More
When most white people think of racism, they think of someone in a white hood and robe or a generally hateful person. This is individual racism; the racist attitudes and actions of individuals. The examples of this are obvious, but systemic racism (sometimes called structural or institutional racism) is harder to understand. Does systemic racism just mean a bunch of … Read More
Yesterday, George Floyd was laid to rest in his hometown of Houston. How can we possibly respond to this pain? The Bible gives us a way forward through the tradition of lament found in the books of Psalms, Job and Lamentations. A lament is not a theological study but rather an attempt to express the anguish of a sorrowful human heart. In the spirit of biblical lament, we at Woodland offer our own lament. Read More
Echo, our youth ministry for 7th-12th graders, has a team of student leaders who commit themselves to taking on a bigger role in Echo. They are called Echo Catalysts and they serve as role models for the rest of the students. Through sacrificial contributions of time and talent, they model servant leadership, hospitality and commitment to the broader Echo community. They agree to welcome others, participate in discipleship, live out God’s story and ultimately be the body of Christ. Though COVID has put a twist on things, the Catalysts have continued to show up through consistent attendance and participation on Echo’s live stream. As they look back on this year and their time with Echo, they remember what they’ve learned and how much they’ve grown. Read More
Your family is invited to join us at Woodland Hills for a REVERSE PARADE! The Heroes Gate staff and volunteers will honor social distancing by spreading out along the front sidewalk at the church. They are excited to wave, say hello, and even chat from a safe distance with your kids (while they stay safe inside your car). You just drive through the front parking lot slowly. You can even stop and chat for a while! Read More
Due to historic inequities, the work of local African American churches and ministries are have been disproportionately impacted by the recent crises in our Twin Cities. We want to partner with our brothers and sisters to help ensure they can continue providing critical life-giving spiritual and practical service and support to their communities. Read More
The history of racial injustice can be overwhelming, but we want to be a part a future that better reflects the Kingdom of God. Change takes time, and there is much to learn and discuss – especially for those of us who are white. We’re abundantly thankful for the diversity of people who call Woodland Hills their church home. But as a predominantly white church, we want to provide resources for our people to wrestle with these issues. Read More
