The sin of slavery thrived in Virginia and the sin of racism continues to infect and hamper the people and parishes of the Diocese of Southern Virginia.

How do we reach a place of material and relational reconciliation and spiritual healing that will lead us to new life in Christ? This study guide, together with the accompanying video, is prepared for use in its entirety in parish communities.  The Repairers of the Breach Task Force trust that it provides a structure and resources to understand the past and present influence of slavery and racism upon us as individuals, congregations, and a broader community of faith across the Diocese.

The process involves sharing individual members’ stories, emphasizing how and where individual views and beliefs concerning racism were forged, challenged and/or repudiated by family, friends and culture.  We hope this method will prove invaluable in identifying and understanding how personal and institutional racism harmed each of us in the past and has served to maintain the breach.

The Repairers of the Breach Task Force will offer trained facilitators to assist parishes and/or convocations in using this material. Contact the diocesan office if you wish to avail yourself of this service.

Click here for the Repairing the Breach study guide.

Click here to view the Repairing the Breach video.

A Reconciliation Resource for November Liturgies on healing the sin of racism

"Repentance, Reconciliation and Healing: A liturgical resource for congregations" - Following the format of Holy Women, Holy Men, this booklet offers several options for readings and psalms. Annual Council Resolution R-1 resolved that “November 2, 2014, All Souls Day will be designated as the ‘Day of Repentance and Reconciliation’ in the Diocese of Southern Virginia and parishes will annually hold this observance during the octave of All Saints.” If you need further assistance or have questions, please contact Canon Lynn Farlin, lfarlin@diosova.org or 757-213-3377.

Service of Repentance, Reconciliation & Healing

A diocesan service was held November 2, 2013 at Christ & St. Luke's, Norfolk.

Click here to watch video of the service.

Click here for the Order of Service.

Click here to read Bishop Hollerith's Formal Apology on Behalf of the Diocese of Southern Virginia.

Additonal Resources

Finding hope amid the Fla. verdict, The Rev. Craig T. Kocher, Richmond Times Dispatch, July 20, 2013

Johns Memorial, Farmville, commemorates 1963 "Kneel-Ins", July 28, 2013