Meeting Diversity, Training and Spiritual Needs

In spite of diversity statistics Religious Services are still the most segregated places in the U.S.

Cultural and economic diversity is a powerful variable

Developing multicultural environment means realizing or acknowledging cultural differences, socially and economically disadvantages and

Cultural understanding is the first thing needed when dealing with cross-ethno-cultural audiences

The feelings of acceptance ensure one creates a comfort level that allows a person the freedom to meet God as a whole person

Depart from me, for I was hungry and you gave me nothing to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me nothing to drink, I was a stranger and you did not invite me in, I needed clothes and you did not clothe me, I was sick and in prison and you did not look after me.

"They also will answer, `Lord, when did we see you hungry or thirsty or a stranger or needing clothes or sick or in prison, and did not help you?’ "He will reply, `I tell you the truth, whatever you did not do for one of the least of these, you did not do for me.’

Anyone who is in need is your neighbor. Welcome to the neighborhood!

The gospel must first be preached to all nations (Mark 13:10)

Everyone is bias !

However, how we choose to handle or react to these biases is another monster.

If people are aware of their hidden biases, they can monitor and attempt to correct and change attitudes before they are expressed through behavior.

This correction could include attention to language, body language and to the stigmatization shown to specific groups.

“The VESICLE Approach to Learning Theory” (Odom-Dull, 2005).

V.E.S.I.C.L.E is an acronym for, Valuing Ethno-cultural Strategies Includes Communication and Learning Enhancements.