Social Justice

Social Justice is a core of SMBC

Social justice is a much-debated topic––especially when it comes to theology and the church. However, the St. Matthew’s Baptist Church of Harlem firmly believes that the God we serve is a God of social justice. We believe that God is a just God; that our God sent his son Jesus directly into society. As a result of his placement into humanity, Jesus is a social God who repeatedly demonstrated his concern about the unrighteous and unjust situations of his day.

Pastor Lisa and Social Justice

Justice is a relational word. It demands that we first live in right relationship with God. It also demands that we live in right relationship with one another. We firmly believe that a community built on equity, infused with humility and operating in love is a reflection of our Savior, Jesus the Christ. We are confident that our advocacy for the “least of these,” as Jesus mentions in Matthew 25:40 our collective calling.

Our Covid outreach efforts

“For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, 36 I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me.”

(Matthew 25:35-36)

Providing Services for the community

With God’s help….

  • We provide free food for those who are hungry.
  • We provide flu shots each year.
  • We provide COVID-19 testing.
  • We provide COVID-19 vaccinations.
  • We provide voter registration opportunities.
  • We provide a safe space for those in recovery.
  • We provide town halls for community advocacy.
  • We provide space for legislative officials to hear the concerns of our community.
  • We provide school supplies for children in our community.
  • We seek serve whenever the need arises as God gives us strength and wisdom.

“And what does the Lord require of you? But to do justice, and to love kindness and to walk humbly with your God.” (Micah 6:8)