Commission on Truth and Reconciliation

The work of reconciliation is a fundamental calling for the Diocese of Maryland. Reconciliation builds on our profound understanding of our history, gives us energy in the present, and forms the foundation to our future as faithful members of the body of Christ. As discussed at Diocesan Convention last spring, and building on the good work of the past, the diocese is establishing a Commission on Truth and Reconciliation. This commission, an ongoing entity within the diocese, will expand our capacity as a diocese to be truthful with each other and to reconcile deeply across rifts that have separated us.

In the next two years, this new commission will focus on racial reconciliation, broadening the dedicated work previously accomplished in the areas of educational training to help eradicate racism, researching the history of slavery in the diocese and its residual impact on our lives, and reparations. The commission will establish a foundation that will be used to address other areas in need of reconciliation in the future. Our desire is to have conversations about truth and reconciliation. From these talks we will gather names of persons interested in joining this initiative.

Recent conversations held at the Bishop Claggett Center, January 30 and the Cathedral of the Incarnation, February 28 were fruitful and encouraging. The newly forming Truth and Reconciliation Commission is co-chaired by Mr. Michael Sarbanes and the Rev. Angela F. Shepherd. They are seeking members who are willing to serve in a variety of ways. If you are interested, please click on the link below and complete the form. Deadline - March 6. This new initiative will be formally commissioned at the 2010 Diocesan Convention.

Download and print the Truth and Reconciliation Survey in Adobe PDF format