Oak Grove Presbyterian to host Respectful Conversations On MN Marriage Amendment

On April 29^th, from 12:30-3:30 (lunch provided) Oak Grove Presbyterian in Bloomington will host the Minnesota Council of Churches’ (MCC) Respectful Conversations Project on the marriage amendment. The purpose of the program is to explore the issues of the proposed amendment defining marriage through facilitated discussions convened by the MCC. 

On November 7, 2012 Minnesota voters will vote one way or another on the amendment.  It is NOT the aim of this project to lead people to a certain point of view.  Rather,  MCC is partnering with the Bush Foundation to invite people into a safe setting where all viewpoints can be heard and relationships among the participants will be enhanced.

The Project’s aim is to reduce people’s feelings of animosity towards those whose views on this issue differ from their own and to increase feelings of trust and commonality that participants have towards each other.  The dialogues will help people explore this issue through the lens of deeply held convictions.

Pparticipation is limited to 45, and members of other nearby churches will be invited. then you will be put on the waiting list.  If we have a large enough waiting list, we will attempt to hold another session, or direct you to another church that is having a session.  It will also reach beyond the faith community, inviting the broader population to participate in the conversation, engaging as many people as possible in safe, authentic listening and sharing sessions and training them in constructive dialogue methods. If you know others who would benefit from the experience, they are welcome to attend.

It will demonstrate and promote an approach, other than the compulsion to engage controversial issues by butting heads, that faith communities will be able to use to explore polarizing issues in a healthy fashion.

If you wish to participate, contact the church office at 888-4621 to register.