Recently, the committee prompted the diocese’s trustees to adopt policies on diversity, equity and inclusion, and forgive property loans for congregations of color. Following its recommendations, the diocese’s leadership agreed to forgive nearly $300,000 in loans used to cover building maintenance.
Over the next six months, a group of 12 clergy and lay people, selected by church leadership for their knowledge of racial justice efforts, will be responsible for appointing commission members and establishing a framework for its mission. In the development phase, they will identify areas where the commission’s attention is needed, Sifontes explained. Though the length of the commission members’ appointments is unclear, the commission will function as a nonprofit organization headed by a board.
