Living Our Faith: A Summer Series on Social Justice

Join the Race, Reconciliation, and Social Justice committee (RRSJ) for seven enlightening summer Sunday school sessions exploring how the United Methodist Social Principles guide us toward John Wesley’s call to do justice and show mercy and compassion to all.


Starting with a comprehensive overview and understanding of the United Methodist Social Principles, our sessions will provide practical knowledge on pressing issues from creation care to economic mobility, immigration, and LGBTQIA+ support. With the guidance of distinguished speakers, including Duke Divinity professors, attorneys, and community leaders, we’ll learn how to embrace the differences, value and dignity of every person and work for equality and justice for all.

July 13 - August 27 | 9:55 AM | Community Room

  • July 13: Overview and History of the United Methodist Social Principles

    Dr. Laceye Warner, Professor of the Practice of Church Ministry and Methodist Studies, Associate Dean of Wesleyan Engagement and Hybrid Program, Duke Divinity School

  • July 20: Creation Care

    Jonathan Brake, Eco-Mission and Creation Care Coordinator, Western North Carolina Conference, United Methodist Church,  Elder in Full Connection 

  • July 27: Reforming Cash Bail in North Carolina: Challenges and Opportunities

    Peter van Dorsten, Volunteer with North Carolina Interfaith Cash Bail Reform Committee of the North Carolina Council of Churches, Retired Business Executive with IBM

  • August 3: Understanding Immigration

    Ann Marie Dooley,  Attorney with McKinney Immigration Law, North Carolina Board Certified Immigration Law Specialist, Member of Christ United Methodist Church

  • August 10: The Challenges Faced by LGBTQIA+ Individuals and Tangible Ways Churches and Individuals Can Offer Support and Care

    Angel Collie, Director, Duke University Center for Sexual and Gender Diversity

  • August 17: Understanding DEI

    Jennifer Mercarini, Attorney and Director of Cultural Engagement at the national law firm Fox Rothschild

  • August 24: Issues of Economic Mobility in North Carolina and Greensboro

    Craig Richardson, Truist Distinguished Professor Economics and Director of the Center for the Study of Economic Mobility, Winston-Salem State University