From Barriers to Bridges: Practical Steps to Foster Diversity in Emmaus Ministries Communities

Jesus calls us to be one body, united in love across denominational, racial, and cultural differences. Emmaus Ministries embodies this vision as an ecumenical, interracial, and international movement. However, many of our communities remain homogenous, predominantly composed of members from a single denomination or racial background. How can we better reflect the diversity we aspire to on Boards of Directors, Event Teams, participants, and relationships within our communities worldwide? 

Our first article explored the Gospel’s call to unity in diversity.  

The second article identified barriers to ecumenism and inclusivity, inviting honest reflection and action.  

In this third installment, we will outline practical steps Emmaus Ministries communities can take to foster diversity and build bridges.

Creating a Welcoming Community

True inclusivity begins with hospitality —- not just in greetings but in fostering environments where everyone feels valued and heard. To cultivate a welcoming atmosphere: 

• Listen to diverse perspectives – Invite individuals from different backgrounds to share their experiences and engage with an open heart and mind. 
• Embrace different traditions – Be open to worship styles, music, and expressions of faith that may be unfamiliar but deeply meaningful to others.  
• Make intentional invitations – Reach out personally to individuals and churches beyond your usual network rather than expecting them to come on their own. 

Engaging Churches from Different Denominations

While Emmaus Ministries is ecumenical, many communities struggle to attract participants beyond their dominant denomination. To expand denominational diversity: 

• Build relationships with local pastors – Reach out to clergy from different traditions and invite them to experience Emmaus Ministries firsthand. 
• Host interdenominational gatherings – Organize fellowship events. 
• Celebrate what unites us – Focus on shared Christian values such as love for Christ, discipleship, and church renewal. 

Promoting Racial and Cultural Diversity

Racial and cultural diversity reflects God’s kingdom, but it requires intentional effort. Here’s how communities can foster greater inclusivity: 

• Invite diverse leaders – If leadership remains homogeneous, it may unintentionally signal exclusion. Create opportunities for diverse voices to lead. 
• Incorporate multicultural worship elements – Include songs, music, prayers, and sharing from different cultural traditions. 
• Address unspoken barriers – Be willing to engage in open, honest conversations about race, privilege, and inclusion. This might be done outside of regular Emmaus Ministries events such as Walks, Flights, and Encounters. 

Overcoming Socioeconomic and Language Barriers

Not everyone has equal access to participate in an Emmaus Ministries event. Financial constraints, transportation challenges, and language differences can be obstacles. Communities can remove these barriers by: 

• Offering scholarships – Ensure financial hardship does not prevent participation. 
• Providing transportation support – Pair participants with sponsors who will guarantee their presence at an Emmaus Ministries event or arrange carpools. 
• Addressing language barriers – Offer translation services or organize Emmaus events in multiple languages. 

Developing Leadership for a Diverse Community

A truly inclusive community is reflected in its leadership. If diversity is only seen among participants but not in leadership, it may send the message that some are welcome to attend but not to lead. Steps to diversify leadership include: 

• Identifying and mentoring diverse leaders – Look beyond familiar circles and invest in potential leaders from different backgrounds. 
• Creating leadership pathways – Ensure that potential leaders, from various backgrounds, experience the Progressive Servanthood model. 
• Committing to long-term change – Move beyond tokenism toward sustainable diversity that becomes embedded in the community’s culture. 

Sustaining Change: A Long-Term Commitment

Building a diverse Emmaus Ministries community is not a one-time effort; it requires ongoing commitment. Communities can sustain progress by: 

• Regularly evaluating progress – Reflect on what is working and where improvements are needed. 
• Forming a diversity and inclusion team – A dedicated group can help maintain diversity as a priority. 
• Remaining open to learning – Diversity work is a journey, not a destination. Stay adaptable and willing to grow. 

A Call to Action

Building bridges requires effort, but it is a sacred calling. The body of Christ is made up of people from every tribe, tongue, and nation, and our communities should reflect that reality. 

As an Emmaus Ministries community, what action can you take in the next three months to foster inclusivity? Whether it’s reaching out to a new church, inviting a diverse leader into your event-team, or making practical changes to remove barriers. Remember that, every step brings us closer to God’s vision for his Church. 

Our next article will explore how to celebrate and sustain progress, ensuring that inclusivity becomes a lasting legacy. 

May we continue to journey together, trusting that God will guide and equip us to build bridges of love, unity, and renewal. 

Reflection Questions for Your Community

1. What steps have we taken to build bridges in our community? 
2. How can we be more intentional about including diverse voices in leadership? 
3. What partnerships can we form to strengthen our ecumenical and multicultural reach?