Honoring the Legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr.

The Justice Ministry of Highland Park United Methodist Church is committed to the pursuit of understanding and unity. We channel that dedication through educational classes, cultural journeys, and civil rights pilgrimages. Driven by a profound love for all of God’s creation, our mission is to guide individuals on a transformative spiritual journey. In recognition of MLK Day, we want to share some of the ways our church, a unified body of believers, honors Martin Luther King, Jr.’s legacy and follows the teachings of Jesus by engaging in the pursuit of reconciliation.

Our diverse staff actively contributes to our monthly Share & Prayer sessions, providing a platform to share their lived experiences. Our Cultural Journeys serve as a means for the congregation to delve into the historical injustices of race, fostering a commitment to extend our connections beyond current relationships and embrace unity with fellow believers. Through our Civil Rights Pilgrimages, a group of participants of all backgrounds embark on a profound exploration of the civil rights movement, deepening faith and fostering unity.

In collaboration with St. Luke Community United Methodist Church and Project Unity, Together We Dine events feature trained facilitators guiding participants through conversations about racism in a diverse setting. This event leaves attendees with a broader understanding of diverse perspectives. Facilitated by experienced individuals, our Justice classes and Small Groups aim to educate and guide participants on a spiritual journey, emphasizing that God created diversity for mutual learning. As we recognize diversity as a strength and reflection of God's intended unity, our Christian faith compels us to prioritize love for God and by extension, every individual He created.

Our vision is to continue honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr. by seeking peace, unity, and love as a congregation. Inspired by his message of equality and justice, we envision a world where individuals come together, regardless of background or differences, to build bridges of understanding and empathy. Through intentional efforts, we strive to create an environment that reflects the principles of nonviolence, where love triumphs over hate, and unity prevails over division. By embracing King's teachings, we pray for a society where every person is respected, valued, and embraced for their unique contributions in a culture of harmony and goodwill.