About The Project

Why this matters

• Adolescence is a formative time for developing ethnic-racial identity, particularly for youth of color. Research shows that a healthy ethnic-racial identity leads to: 

  • • Stronger mental health

    • Higher self-esteem and confidence

    • Better capacity to handle life's challenges. 

• Churches have a unique opportunity to support this growth by creating welcoming spaces where adolescents can feel deeply rooted in both their cultural heritage and Christian faith. 

• This curriculum invites youth see that their ethnic-racial identity and Christian faith are not separate, but beautifully woven together in God's grand story. 

What is the curriculum?

• This 16-lesson curriculum draws from powerful Biblical narratives such as the story of Jesus and the Gentile woman, Paul, Zipporah, Jethro, and others.

• Lessons focus on themes such as: 

  • Stories of immigrants and refugees

  • Mixed and bicultural identities

  • Diverse cultural perspectives within God's people.

• Each lesson engages youth through group activities, reflection questions, meaningful discussions, and real-life applications connecting to the everyday lives of ethnic minority youth. 

• To support those leading the lessons, the curriculum includes a teaching guide designed for pastors, lay leaders, and parents—equipping them to walk alongside youth with clarity and confidence.

For the outline of the curriculum: See "Overview" tab.

Purpose

To help adolescents develop a healthy ethnic-racial identity grounded in Biblical truths

Goals

• Discover God's work through ethnic-racial identities by studying Bible characters from different cultural backgrounds.

• Connect Scripture and ethnic identity by seeing how God used ethnic identity to fulfill His purposes in Scripture—and what that means for us today.

• Value immigrant experiences and cultural perspectives by recognizing their value as vital parts of God’s ongoing story.

• Facilitate meaningful conversations about ethnic-racial identity by creating a space for meaningful dialogue —especially in churches serving youth of color.

Why Use This Curriculum?

• Supports Mental Health and Spiritual Growth. A strong ethnic identity is essential for both emotional well-being and spiritual maturity.

• Empowers At-Risk Youth. A healthy ethnic-racial identity can be a protective factor for youth of color facing social and emotional challenges.

• Shapes Self-Understanding. Ethnic identity helps young people of color understand who they are in relation to God and how they belong in His world.

• Builds Resilience. A strong sense of ethnic identity reduces the negative effects of discrimination

• Makes Scripture Personal and Relevant. The curriculum helps youth connect with Bible stories and characters who reflect their own experiences.

• Develops Culturally Competent Leaders. Equips youth to lead with confidence and empathy in an increasingly diverse world.

• Keeps Youth Engaged in the Church. Helps the church reach and retain the next generation through culturally grounded faith formation.