A Chicago church is “fasting from whiteness.” First United Church of Oak revealed its unusual decision in a statement on its website, saying the congregation has decided to refrain from music composed by white people.

‘”For Lent this year, First United is doing a mix of ‘giving something up’ and ‘taking something on,'” the church stated. “In our worship services throughout Lent, we will not be using any music or liturgy written or composed by white people.”

Instead, the music will be drawn from “the African American spirituals tradition, from South African freedom songs, from Native American traditions, and many, many more.”

“For Lent, it is our prayer that in our spiritual disciplines we may grow as Christians, united in the body of Christ with people of all ages, nations, races, and origins,” First United added.

In a statement to NBC Chicago, lead Pastor John Edgerton said the “Lenten theme has spurred considerable discussion, with some people questioning the message.” The intent, according to Edgerton, is “to lay aside our usual frames of reference and open ourselves to hearing the Gospel message through the voices of Black People, Indigenous People, and People of Color.”

“Our worship services in Lent have been diverse and beautiful, joyful and Spirit-filled,” the pastor said. “We pray that God oils the hinges of our hearts doors that they might swing open gently to receive the good news of Christ’s resurrection, which we all await at the culmination of Lent.”

First United Church

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