Imagine a church where diversity isn’t just a buzzword. It is a lived reality. That’s Davies Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church. This church stands as a beacon of inclusivity and progress. It embraces people from all walks of life. Davies Memorial is a place where different beliefs converge into one faith.
Davies Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church is a multicultural and multiracial religious community. It welcomes everyone to engage in their personal search for truth. The church provides a nurturing spiritual community. Here, individuals explore reflect and learn.
The story of Davies Memorial took a significant turn when Reverend John Crestwell, Jr. joined. Five years before 2007, he and his family were among the few African Americans in the congregation. Crestwell was drawn to Unitarian Universalism for its vision. He admired its message and principles. He also liked its liberal theology.
In September 2005, Rev. Crestwell became the church’s first African American minister. The congregation grew by 50 percent. Thirty-seven percent of its members became people of color. Davies Memorial became one of the most diverse congregations in the Unitarian Universalist Association.
Rev. Don Cameron played a crucial role in this transformation. He partnered with Crestwell. Together, they envisioned a congregation growing in both numbers and diversity. This plan included a transition in ministry. Rev. Cameron would eventually move to another congregation.
Davies Memorial leaders reached out to the local community. They shared the church’s liberal message. They also hired Rev. Crestwell as the director of outreach in 2003.
Internally, Davies Memorial started an anti-racism adult education program. It was called ADORE A Dialogue on Race and Ethnicity. The church also launched a new newspaper. It was named the Freedom Xpress. The newspaper promoted their strategic transformation.
The congregation installed a bold new sign. They revamped their website. The website promoted their Diversity Growth Plan. It also featured testimonials.
Davies Memorial emphasized its welcoming inclusive and justice-oriented vision. The ministers preached on social justice and equality. They explored world religions. They also explored poetry and the blues.
Rev. Crestwell believes Davies Memorial Church’s location in an African American neighborhood was important. He also knew that outreach was essential. Many people seek a liberal religion. They are unchurched and looking for a spiritual home.
Davies Memorial UU Church was named a UUA Breakthrough Congregation. Rev. John T. Crestwell, Jr.’s book was released in May 2007. It told the Davies Memorial Church Growth & Diversity Story.
Davies Memorial stands as a testament to the power of inclusivity. It exemplifies the realization of Dr. King’s dream. It is a moral guardian. It preaches brotherhood and sisterhood. It makes it a reality within its own body.