As this pandemic is hopefully coming to an end, what lessons (self-care or socially or otherwise) do you think we can carry forward, to foster a better society, whatever that entails?

Topic:
As this pandemic is hopefully coming to an end, what lessons (self-care or socially or otherwise) do you think we can carry forward, to foster a better society, whatever that entails? (ie: gender equality, business accountability, racial justice, better mental health, more community/less capitalism)
Key ideas from the source (only use that source and explain to foster a better society Sigmon wants preachers to think beyond COVID to how they can continue to break down the white supremacy and colonization even when they move back to a physical place of worship.):
The reading was written for Christian priests and pastors (and those in training to go into such a vocation). That said, as feminists the reading presents us with an important intersectional message, particularly at this point in history, not only with respect to COVID but also colonization. asks her intended readers to consider how a change of technology (by moving church services online) can change their approach to their parishioners and the public. Sigmon argues that while the pulpit (itself) is embodied with symbolism and history, the present time is one to acknowledge the white supremacy, colonization, and patriarchy of Christianity, and to speak against these not only in the message (ie: a sermon) but also the format of delivery (ie: not using the pulpit). Sigmon argues that now is the time to change the traditional tactics of leading from behind a pulpit (dictating “proper” ways of conduct) to one of leading through meaningful communication and engagement with marginalized communities. In terms of moving forward, Sigmon wants preachers to think beyond COVID to how they can continue to break down the white supremacy and colonization even when they move back to a physical place of worship.
When I chose Sigmon’s article, it was before the start of the semester, and thus before the confirmation of the buried Indigenous children. At the same time, I recognized the intertwined nature of COVID with Black Lives Matter and continued colonization. I recognize that many of you may be resistant to any positives coming from communities of faith, particularly Christian churches, at this time – due to the history and hurt, I too am very skeptical sometimes. At the same time, it is important to recognize that for many Black people and Indigenous people, and other people of colour and other marginalized people, communities of faith have been and continue to be places of empowerment, culture, activism, and healing. If you are feeling that you know what is best for others, I encourage you to take a step back and acknowledge where those feelings are coming from, and also acknowledge the agency that people have to engage with faith where they find healing and communitcixy, and also they have agency to leave.

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