Sankofa Reflection 2017: Ashley Barnd, Evergreen Church – Bloomington
Sankofa Journey to Harmony
[I was] not prepared for the level of emotions that arose within me.
Going into the trip I expected to be interested and intrigued by the sites and events but was not prepared for the level of emotions that arose within me.
For many years, I have been wanting to make an impact in the area of racial reconciliation. It’s my belief that we are not far from where were in the 50’s and 60’s. It may look different today, but so many injustices remain. In visiting sites where tragic and awesome things happened 60 years ago, had me feeling a deep visceral connection with the people who came before me. They inspire me to keep pressing regardless of the enormity of the task ahead.
I still struggle to understand why some people have such a hard time with people that are different from them.
One of the most amazing parts of the trip was sharing this incredible experience with people from all different backgrounds. There were different races, but also different denominations, ages, etc. We went in as strangers and came out a diverse united group of brothers and sisters. This reaffirmed in me something God has been continually placing on my heart, which is that we have to come together as the Church, as a people. We cannot let our differences and preferences cause so much division. I know that unity is possible if we extend the love that Christ has given to us for one another.
I am so completely thankful that I got to go on this trip. It was honestly life changing. If you ever are presented the opportunity to do this trip jump at the chance.
Ashley Barnd and her husband Kevin are in ministry at Evergreen Church – Bloomington.