Greater Milwaukee Synod Authentic Diversity Initiative
Rev. Afi Dobbins-Mays – Assistant to the Bishop for Authentic Diversity and Leadership
About four years ago, the Greater Milwaukee Synod began a vital journey toward becoming a truly welcoming, affirming, and diverse church. While our Synod has expressed this desire for many years, the reality often tells a different story. Nationally, the ELCA remains one of the least racially diverse denominations in the country, with 96% of its membership identifying as White.
Rostered Ministers and Lay Leaders of our Synod have come together and are working to help our congregations move toward a new reality: one where people of all races, backgrounds, genders, ages, and abilities are seen as sacred, made in the image of God, and genuinely welcomed.
Some may ask, “Why do we keep talking about this?” or “Can’t we just love each other and focus on the good news?” The truth is – this is the good news. Christ’s Love calls us to compassion, healing, and justice. In her visits to congregations, Pastor Afi Dobbins-Mays has heard from Black, Indigenous, and other People of Color who often feel unseen or misunderstood in their worship communities. Their tears and pain remind us why this work cannot stop.
One of our synod’s pastors shares why he invests in this initiative: “The resources and approaches I have learned through our synod’s authentic diversity work have made an impact in my congregation, and in my family relationships. They have empowered me to have open and deep conversations with family and friends who believe different things than I do. Through reading and discussing together, we have been able to find common ground while growing in our awareness of systemic racism and division. In these days of hyper-partisanship and loneliness, I can think of nothing more important than learning tools that help us speak Gospel (good news) truth to the dynamics that separate us.”
The Authentic Diversity initiative of the Greater Milwaukee Synod helps congregations and individuals learn, grow, and heal — cultivating spaces that reflect the compassion and grace of God. Many have already begun this transformation, and many more are ready to begin.
Your financial gifts make this sacred work possible. Together, we can build a church where all of God’s children are fully seen and embraced. Please consider supporting this vital ministry. To God be the glory!
