“Civil Discourse: A Workshop Demonstrating Respectful Conversation About a Controversial Issue” Have you ever been involved in a conversation or dialogue that suddenly became uncomfortable or antagonistic? Do you ever find yourself thinking, “

“Civil Discourse: A Workshop Demonstrating Respectful Conversation About a Controversial Issue”
 
Have you ever been involved in a conversation or dialogue that suddenly became uncomfortable or antagonistic? Do you ever find yourself thinking, “I wish I had said …” sometime much later?  Do you discover it difficult to advocate for a point of view and still be tolerant of other opinions? These are issues of “civil discourse”. Our patience, listening skills, and respect for others is tested everyday. In church we are reminded of the Golden Rule, where it is compelling and effective to treat others (even the ones with whom we don’t agree) as we would like to be treated.
 
Plymouth Congregational Church – UCC in Helena recently received funding from Humanities Montana to hold two identical workshops this fall, focusing on civil discourse, specifically in reference to the refugee crisis in Montana. The first workshop will take place at University UCC on Saturday October 22 from 8:30 AM to 2:00 PM.  The second will be in Helena at Plymouth - UCC on November 5.
 
Led by Bruce Whittenberg, Director of the Montana Historical Society, assisted by Senator Diane Sands of Missoula and by Jamie Doggett of White Sulphur Springs, former Meagher County Commissioner, each workshop invites only 20 participants. As hosts it is the responsibility and privilege of the congregations involved to provide gracious and welcoming space and a warm meal at mid-day. What better place to provide warmth and hospitality than in the Christian embrace of our fellowship.
 
The UCC Conference Minister, Rev. Marc Stewart, is assisting with financial and administrative support as we seek to introduce a very practical approach to the Golden Rule. It is hoped that the UCC’s role in modeling civility will earn requests from other faith-based institutions throughout the state to host similar workshops in the months and years ahead.
 
If you have questions you may contact Jennifer Jeffries Thompson, Project Director, in Helena at jjthompson@bresnan.net.