Statement of Faith into Action
The First Presbyterian Church of Metuchen stands in solidarity with Black and Brown communities in affirming that as a human right, Black lives matter – to us and to God. As a church, we have been slow to speak out about racial injustice. We can remain silent no longer. We pledge our moral and financial support as well as other direct actions in a peaceful call for justice.
Statement
We believe: Black lives have been disproportionately impacted by violence and oppression, with many cut short by acts of racism.
We believe: Black lives have been treated as if they matter less in America far too long.
We believe: Racial oppression is the opposite of what God intends for humanity.
We believe: The Church is called to denounce and oppose all forms of racism, discrimination, brutality, violence, and oppression, particularly those reinforced by systems of power.
We believe: People – regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, ability, religion, age, or sexual orientation – deserve dignity, love, respect, and freedom from degrading or violent treatment, and equitable access to social, educational and economic opportunities.
Resolutions
We commit to facilitating learning opportunities which will inform, inspire and empower individuals and the Church to take peaceful actions that encourage antiracism, decenter whiteness, foster racial justice, help dismantle structures and policies which perpetuate racism, break down barriers to understand, build congregational vitality, impact change, help to eradicate systemic poverty and provide more equal opportunities for Black people to thrive. This will include:
- Visibly presenting our faith-based antiracism statement broadly across many platforms.
- Encouraging dialogue within our congregation through educational programming such as forums, civility, diversity training, speakers, and other resources, to foster the empowerment of individuals to impact change and promote racial justice.
- Initiating fellowship and partnership opportunities with local, predominantly Black churches, with the hope of listening, learning and standing together to support systemic change.
- Reviewing annually the Investment and Endowment portfolio with a goal of investing in a socially responsible manner.
- Continuing to be mindful that our boards, commissions, staff, and committees should accurately represent the racial diversity of our congregation.
- Seeking out Black owned businesses as potential vendors.
- Preaching and teaching the Gospel as justice from the pulpit, praying together for change.
- Discerning new actions the Church can take on within the community to support oppressed and marginalized groups.
Racial Awareness Booklet Resource – Click Here
For more information, contact Rev. Dr. Fred G. Garry at or (732) 491-2300.
Resources for Parents
Below are resources to assist parents with communicating difficult topics to their school-aged children.
The topic of racism is on the forefront of most everyone’s mind these days. Here are some materials parents may find useful as conversation starters with their children:
10 Tips for Teaching and Talking to Kids about Race