The new unified Shelby County Board of Education held its first meeting this week. We asked our Faith in Memphis panel to offer some advice to the board, and also to comment on the photograph of seven new members bowing in prayer after they recited their oath of office. Here are several excerpts. Read all the complete responses at faithinmemphis.com.
Randolph Meade Walker
Castalia Baptist Church
The bowed heads suggested a humble spirit. I believe a major problem in Memphis' history has been an arrogant and elitist attitude on the part of some of our leaders. Recognizing that the individual is not self-containing and independent is vital to a servant attitude. This is a primary ingredient in a successful public servant's demeanor. I wish to see the new board members put their personal agendas, fears and ignorance of others aside. I pray they will have an holistic appreciation for every child in Shelby County.
Barbara Holmes
Memphis Theological Seminary
When you live in the midst of the struggle for justice for such a long time, it is easy to lose sight of the profound effects of social change on our community. In this photograph, overcoming the fear of change and proximity seems possible. The pause for prayer is a sign of hope and humility necessary for the success of the project. The work will be difficult, but facing the Herculean task of uniting two school systems is not as daunting when hands are held and heads are bowed.
Carol Richardson
First Baptist Church Memphis
Seeing the unified school board standing hand in hand with heads bowed, a position of humility with the realization that the task before us is larger than one person and even one body, was a sign of HOPE, of POSSIBILITY for a brighter educational future for all our children. May we all humbly join them, praying in the way our faith traditions dictate for the sake of a better Memphis. I also am a firm believer in the separation of church and state. All faith or nonfaith traditions must be carefully protected and honored in a country of religious diversity.
Source: http://www.commercialappeal.com/news/2011/oct/15/the-faith-in-memphis-panel-advice-and/?partner=RSS
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