Day 3 Civil Rights Trip 2024!

Day 3 Civil Rights trip in Birmingham! We spent the morning exploring Birmingham – Kelly Ingram Park, AG Gaston motel, Negro Baseball league museum, and following the footstep of 1000 of marchers. In the afternoon, we were at Bethel Baptist church, the pulpit of Rev. Fred Shuttlesworth. Shuttlesworth’s sacrificial work from the late 50’s through the 60’s led the way to finally break the stronghold of Bull Connor and the Birmingham elite to end the grip of segregation. At Bethel, we heard a remarkable, information-packed presentation by the lead historian from the Civil Rights Institute. And before returning to the hotel, we stopped by the site where Martin Luther King was imprisoned and wrote the Letter from the Birmingham Jail. That’s a quick summary of what we did, but it doesn’t capture what we learned, experienced, felt, and were unsettled by. Like the previous days, there was so much stirring in my soul, learning the stories of the worst of humanity coupled with the strength shown by the best of humanity. And while hearing those stories, I was reflecting on this movement in our country to squelch the teaching of history. Historian Doris Kearns Goodwin wrote, “History is here to help, but it can’t help us if we cripple it.” And our speaker followed up that quote with these words: “History can teach us what to do and what not to do.” History can’t hurt us. It’s done. It’s happened. It’s like a graveyard, according to Kearns Goodwin. But its an important resource for moving forward in our effort to creating a more justice, equitable community and world. As followers of Jesus, we’re called to a life of humility. I see humility as an openness to recognizing that we don’t understand everything and my perspective is limited. But opening myself up to the stories of others, whether those living now or those who’ve gone before, isn’t a threat to me, but rather a gift to help me better understand myself, others, and our world better. I’m so thankful for this journey. For the 42 traveling companions. For their reflections, questions, kindness, openness, and curiosity. And for all of you who are journeying with us through facebook and your prayers. Looking forward to worship tomorrow at the 16th St. Baptist Church in Birmingham.