I was just about to respond to Beverly’s comments when I realized the implications of her second remark. Did she really assume that because my friend Joy is black, she would automatically go to a predominantly African-American church? Worse yet, was she implying that Joy wouldn’t fit in at our church? “Actually,” I measured my words carefully, “Joy really felt welcomed here and plans to come back next Sunday.”

Beverly smiled. “I’m so glad. She’ll be a great addition to our class.”

“I think so too,” I said, realizing I’d misinterpreted her question. “She’s looking forward to getting to know everyone better.”

While racism may seem a thing of the past, some people still carry subtle prejudices that affect the way they think of and treat people who are different from themselves. Even in our churches—local outposts of God’s kingdom—unseen barriers and unwritten rules can still exist, making some people feel excluded, dividing rather than unifying.

Depending on the geographic location of your local church, your congregation may be made up of people who are of the same color and ethnicity, or it may be quite diverse. But regardless of who regularly attends your services, you can be an agent of love and unity by intentionally making everyone feel welcomed and included. Prayerfully evaluate if you harbor any prejudices that keep you from extending love and kindness to people of other races. Consider what you might do to tear down those barriers and build bridges instead.