Sounds of Solidarity

This idea of "kenosis," or self-emptying exemplified by Jesus is central to the spiritual journey and the spirituality of reparations. 

Philippians 2:5-9, a book of the Christian New Testament describes Jesus "emptied himself," relinquishing divine privilege to become human and ultimately to suffer on the cross. This kenotic path involves giving away privilege and ego to make room for God and to honor, love, and sacrifice for the divine recognized in all creation. For Christian communities, embracing this path means turning away from domination and embracing a "cracked-open, uncertain, decentered state" to gain deeper life with God.

With this self emptying as a guide, concepts of reparations extend beyond financial compensation. Reparations calls for a deep spiritual reckoning to address the afterlives of historical injustices like slavery and genocide. This spiritual dimension emphasizes acknowledging past harms, encourages genuine repentance, and a commitment to healing and reconciliation on all levels of society. The wounds of injustice are not merely material but are deeply “etched into the spiritual and emotional lives of individuals and communities”.

When we consider reparations through this lens, it becomes an act of love and self-giving - “believing that love is stronger than death, that giving of ourselves restores and increases life for everyone.” This spiritual approach to reparations prepares us for solidarity, where love crosses boundaries of fear and selfishness to enter into mutual relationships and struggle for shared liberation. It's a call to transform privilege into a tool for dismantling unjust systems, a "stewardship of privilege" that follows Jesus' example of using power not for self-elevation, but to ensure everyone flourishes and experiences the conditions to thrive. This path, though requires letting go,, is ultimately a faithful and transformative journey towards God's dream of beloved community and justice.

Episcopal City Mission’s spiritual journey of reparations is providing a lived opportunity to grapple with how to follow Jesus on this kenotic path of healing. We have studied our history, written a statement of atonement, and allocated money for reparations from our endowment. We will be following the lead of a Black and Indigenous Reparations Advisory Council made up of Black and Indigenous leaders who are working for spiritual and systemic justice in the Massachusetts.

Note: The wisdom from this reflection is based upon the ideas and wisdom of the Canon Reverend Stephanie Spellers in her book The Church Cracked Disruption, Decline and New Hope for Beloved Community, 2021.

Reflection by The Rev. Arrington Chambliss