Who We Are

The Racial Justice Team (RJT) is a ministry of St John Lutheran Church, rooted in the belief that all people are created in the image of God and are called to live in genuine community with one another. We seek to bridge divides, create awareness, and foster opportunities for meaningful engagement across racial and cultural lines.

Our Mission

Our mission is to inspire and equip our congregation to actively participate in dismantling racism and promoting racial equity by:

  • Raising awareness of racial injustice and its impacts.

  • Building authentic relationships with BIPOC communities.

  • Supporting and celebrating cultural diversity.

  • Creating spaces for education, reflection, and action.

Our Vision

We envision a church and community where racial justice is pursued with humility and courage, where barriers are broken, and where people of all backgrounds live in mutual respect, love, and solidarity.

What We Do

Our team focuses on providing opportunities for education, engagement, and action. Examples of our activities include:


    • Book studies on topics related to racial justice.

    • Movie screenings that highlight racial and cultural contributions and challenges.

    • Encouraging participation in experiences like the MLK Freedom Bus Ride, exploring the history of the civil rights movement.

    • Hosting events like the Juneteenth Service of Repentance.

    • Promoting and attending meals and fellowship with communities such as Le Christopher’s in Waterloo.

    • Organizing outings to diverse-owned restaurants and businesses to foster cross-cultural understanding and economic support.

    • Being a resource for those who wish to learn more about racial equity and justice.

    • Sharing events and opportunities within BIPOC communities to encourage participation and support.

    • Cultivating partnerships with local organizations, churches, and community groups dedicated to racial justice.

Why We Do It

We are driven by our faith and the belief that racism, in all its forms, contradicts the teachings of Christ. We recognize that racism still manifests in personal, structural, and systemic ways. Through education and action, we aim to inspire our congregation to move from awareness to engagement, promoting reconciliation and justice.