As we gather here at Camp McDowell, Alabama, we acknowledge the Yuchi, Muscogee,  and Shawnee people, the traditional custodians of the land on which this camp stands. We recognize that they occupied and cared for this land over countless generations before being invaded and decimated by European forces.

Kyrie. Christ, have mercy.

We also acknowledge the enslaved Africans who lived in bondage here in Walker county, Alabama. In 1850 census, we find that 263 Africans – ranging in age from four months to 75 years -- were enslaved by 76 owners.

Kyrie. Christ, have mercy.

This land on which we walk and pray and laugh and weep – this land is stained by the blood and sweat, moans and tears of indigenous and African siblings.

Let us walk gently on this land, hallowed by the blood and sweat, moans and tears of indigenous and African siblings.

Kyrie. Christ, have mercy.

We pause in confession, in respect, in mourning.

We offer our hearts, our minds, our spirits to the Holy One who listens and who heals. Kyrie. Christ, have mercy.

Rev. Beth A. Richardson