As we gathered to beat virus, we must gather to beat racism​​​​​​​

The volunteer networks have had less to do because the power of a caring neighbour has met the needs of those who are most vulnerable around them.

We have shared several displays of gratitude for care workers and those who are on the front line to keep our communities functioning.

Amid uncertainty and grief, we have come together and supported each other.

Our difference has been transcended.

When the news broke of the death of George Floyd while knelt upon by a policeman in the USA, it felt like the poison of racism would shatter the deep sense of unity in community that we have all felt.

The pain of feeling marginalised because of colour is very real to many. This terrible event caused a tsunami of anger, not just in America but globally.

As our communities have rallied to overcome the threat of a virus, so we must gather as one to overcome the divisive cancer of racism, holding close in our thoughts and prayers those who feel this death is another attack on who they are.

At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit filled those who followed Jesus.

The immediate response was to show love and unity to everyone.

To look out for the needs of all, particularly the poor and those who feel marginalised.

In the Bible, the community of faith was illustrated as a body; celebrating difference, declaring that we all need each other. We need to give special honour to parts of the body that are more fragile or vulnerable.

“So that there should be no division in the body, but that its parts should have equal concern for each other.” 1Cor12vs25.

It goes on to say that if one part of the body suffers, we all suffer, so we stand with our sisters and brothers who feel pain at the moment. We also strive to help all feel equally loved and valued and pray our world will be healed of all that seeks to divide and destroy what is beautiful in God’s eyes.

The Reverend Jonathan Haigh is minister of Victoria Hall Methodist Church in Sheffield city centre and Greenhill Methodist Church

See greenhillmethodistchurch.com