Be The Bridge

"We did the White bridge builders 101 class and it was an eye opener. I guess it’s a little embarrassing how much I didn’t know I didn’t know. That class took the blinders off of white culture being “normal” and not the white experience. It is of course shocking to learn about how differently we are treated than black people even at present day. None of us in the class had understood the severity of the difference until the class laid out the stats in the White Privilege section. I have also read the book Be The Bridge and that has been inspiring, challenging, and helpful as well. Latasha writes like a friend who wants you to recognize problems so you can do better and we can all heal. She writes with Christian love." - Hilary

"Regarding the BTB small group, my wife Shirley and I applaud this discipleship initiative at Colonial. We are no strangers to efforts like this having been engaged in cross-cultural ministry for over three decades. Yet, we continue to learn and grow. While the studies are good, the platforms created by the studies are even better. We met and engaged with white brothers and sisters who were eager, honest and receptive. Our prayer is that the seeds planted and nurtured in each of our lives will bear fruit for God's glory through Christ and our personal and corporate good." - Arthur, Pastor

"I am forever grateful to have joined a BTB group a year ago. The honest discussions with people of color was life-changing! My spirit was ready to hear the hard truths of what my Black and Hispanic brothers and sisters in Christ have been and are going through in American society. For me, God opened my eyes to the fact that I need more friends of color and people of color need more white friends. I was challenged to get together with someone in the group outside of class. I asked a young woman of color for coffee and we became fast friends. Since the class, I have been very intentional about reaching out to my black neighbors. We were friendly before, but not friends. This is my heart’s desire to be a real friend. We discuss hard topics now, but it breaks the wall down when I admit my white privilege and ask for forgiveness and friendship. This is the path BTB has encouraged me to follow." - Lauren, Colonial Presbyterian Church

"I absolutely LOVE the BTB discussion group! I'm participating in my 2nd group (as a co-leader this time around), and the dialogue has been incredible. My group had received the information that we share and the topics discussed very well. We're transparent with our discussions. We continue to build strong relationships. We enjoy each other! Our group is coming to an end in a few weeks, but it is safe to say that I've made an impact and so have the other members. Shout out to Jim Anderson...he drug me into going through this again. I reluctantly agreed, but I'm SO glad to say that I'm delighted he asked me to pair up with him. Thank you to Colonial for opening doors and conversations that most likely would have never happened had it not been for BTB." - Robyn, Oasis Church International

"It has been very rewarding to be a part of my BTB group. We have engaged in tough conversations, but they have created room for growth, understanding, and friendship. While our group completed the study a couple of months ago, we still meet monthly to check in with one another, share experiences, and even confide in each other when we experience things in the world that bring us pain, joy, and grief. I am so blessed to have met new friends through this ministry that I really believe care about me and desire to see our world as a better place for future generations." - Porsche, River’s Edge Church, Caring for Kids