My study project seeks to foster a theological and practical framework for the work of public remembrance and reparations in the context of a historic, predominantly white, mainline congregation.

Together with members of First Church in Cambridge, we wish to initiate a lasting public remembrance project to honor the 39 persons who were enslaved by First Church members and who are listed as part of our membership from 1698 and 1776. This memorial or monument should:

• promote remembrance of the injustices done to enslaved persons, while honoring and celebrating their place in our history and church family

• be a call to repentance and action, drawing connections between the injustices of Northern slavery to the urgent demand for racial justice today

• be inviting to individuals, providing a place for quiet learning and reflection while also offering suggestions for further study and action

• be a model for other congregations

In consultation with a diverse group of theologians, memorial design architects, historians, and racial justice experts, and in conversation with First Church members, neighboring clergy, and local residents, I hope to equip myself and my congregation to lead a collaborative process of moral and spiritual examination of the themes of remembrance, repentance, and reparation. What are the key questions to ask, and how can our theological tradition and spiritual practices equip us to face our shared history, shared present, and shared future? Our records of First Church's complicity with slavery give our current membership a specific entry point to engage this work of reflection. Eventually, we hope it will also provide us with a specific call to action to address contemporary forms of racial injustice.