We have been journeying together since the December 2024 issue of the Emmaus eNews. We began with the foundational truth that Emmaus Ministries is called to be ecumenical, interracial, and international, reflecting the body of Christ in all its richness and diversity. We then examined the barriers to the realization of this vision and we offered practical steps to foster greater inclusivity. As we conclude this series, we look to the future as we answer the following question: How do we sustain transformation? How do we ensure that our commitment to diversity does not fade with time, but becomes embedded in the identity and culture of our local community?
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.
The third article outlines practical steps Emmaus Ministries communities can take to foster diversity and build bridges.
This article is packed with practical guidance for communities that are ready to take on the challenge of moving from one-off efforts to lasting change. It is a call to make inclusivity not just a value we talk about, but a reality we live.
From Initiative to Culture
In order to be sustained, transformation must be part of the community’s culture. It takes inspiration and intention to create a diverse community, but sustaining it requires structure and discipline. Indeed, it is one thing to host a diverse Emmaus Ministries event but, it is another to build a culture where inclusion is the norm, not the exception. The fact is that transformation only lasts when it is woven into our everyday habits, our systems, and our leadership practices. So, it is important that transformation must move from being a special project to becoming part of who we are as Emmaus Ministries communities.
Celebrating Progress
Making time to celebrate also matters. Before moving forward, the Community must take time to acknowledge what has already changed and celebrate the milestones — small and large — that show evidence of growth. These may include new partnerships with churches from other denominations, event teams or community leadership that better reflect the community’s variety of racial and cultural backgrounds. Such public celebration reinforces commitment. The community may also consider hosting an annual event focused on unity and diversity, or highlighting stories of transformation in newsletters and community updates. These practices honor the work already done and they also inspire continued action.
Ongoing Evaluation and Reflection
Sustainable transformation requires continuous evaluation. Communities engaging in this process must regularly ask “who is represented in our leadership, on teams, and among participants, who is missing and why, and what assumptions or systems may unintentionally exclude others”. Conducting a simple annual review or diversity audit can help find answers to these questions. Communities may also have it as a practice to invite members of the community to reflect on their experiences, especially those from underrepresented backgrounds. They will listen carefully and adjust accordingly. All of this matters because transformation thrives where learning is ongoing and humility is practiced.
Building Systems of Inclusion
In order for diversity to become part of the community’s identity, inclusivity must be reflected in its systems and decision-making processes. Communities should integrate diversity goals into strategic planning, ensure that team formation processes allow for broad representation, and update the content of local resources to reflect Emmaus Ministries' ecumenical and international spirit. Internal policies should be adopted that actively support the inclusion of marginalized voices. By creating structures that reflect its values, communities make space for transformation to take root and flourish.
Equipping and Empowering Diverse Leadership
Inclusive leadership is key to long-term cultural change. Communities must be intentional in mentoring emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds and in ensuring that they are supported through a clear, well-developed path such as our Progressive Servanthood model. This provides them with the training, the formation, and the confidence that is necessary for thriving in leadership. In order to guarantee that the next generation of Emmaus Ministries leaders reflect the Kingdom of God and the mission of the movement, ongoing learning opportunities around intercultural competence, ecumenical theology, and inclusive leadership might be sought.
Creating a Culture of Grace and Accountability
For transformation to be sustained, honest and grace-filled conversations are required. Mistakes will happen. People will do foolish things. When this is the case there must be an ability to remain open to graceful feedback and a commitment to growing together. Safe spaces must be created for discussion, where community members can share concerns or offer constructive input. Encouraging spiritual practices of confession, reconciliation, and restoration strengthens trust and deepens community. These matter because transformation is also long-lasting when accountability is rooted in grace and a shared purpose.
Staying Connected to the Global Body
As we continue our reflection on sustaining the transformation, we must have in mind that Emmaus Ministries is not just a local or national movement — it is international. As our Annual Virtual Gathering reminds us, we are part of a global fellowship of believers from every continent and culture. Staying connected to this global reality enriches our understanding and strengthens our witness. With this in mind, communities are encouraged to partner with Emmaus Ministries in other countries for prayer, training, or cultural exchange, for the sharing of stories, resources, and even best practices. These might all offer opportunities to grow in our understanding, respect for, and openness to others.
A Vision for the Future
Now, I invite you to pause for a while. Imagine Emmaus Ministries communities where worship is multilingual, teams are racially and denominationally diverse, and every participant feels seen, heard, and valued. Imagine communities that reflect Revelation 7:9 — a great multitude from every nation, tribe, people, and language standing before the throne in worship. This vision, my friend, is not only possible — it is faithful. It honors our Christian roots. It reflects our mission, and it proclaims to the world that the Gospel is for all. What is your community’s vision for the future?
Final Invitation
As we bring this series to an end, based on its vision for the future, every Emmaus Ministries community is invited to develop a twelve-month action plan focused on diversity and inclusion. This plan should include specific goals and timelines, concrete steps for leadership development and community engagement, and ways to celebrate milestones and evaluate progress. We keep in mind that transformation is a journey, not a sprint and, on that journey, every faithful step brings us closer to the inclusive, loving, and Spirit-led community God has called us to be.
Let us continue to walk together, trusting that the Holy Spirit will guide and sustain us in this sacred work that we carry out together.
Reflection Questions for Your Community
Here are a few questions for your community as it continues to work towards greater inclusivity:
Friends, we have come to the end of our 4-part series. Our prayer is that, in the interest of God’s kingdom, as we continue to renew Christian disciples and strengthen local churches for their mission, we may build communities that reflect the boundless grace of God, communities that are ecumenical, interracial, and international in spirit, mission, and love.
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