Once you have registered your cluster here, you’re ready for the first component of faith250: clergy-only conversations about key American texts that form the basis of the entire faith250 program. If you don’t yet have a cluster, click here to learn more about forming or joining one.
The clergy-only conversations have several objectives:
Establishing the space to acknowledge theological differences as strengths and recognize common values that promote civic health.
Enabling clergy to experience the process of exploring historical American texts, tie their messages to scripture, and gain comfort in leading congregational sessions.
Identifying how to translate this experience for congregations.
This group should plan on meeting four times, one for each text, although some groups may opt to combine texts into one session. Each session will require a minimum of 90 minutes; more likely two hours. Clergy should review the two-page document about each text in advance. The document includes the text (or key excerpts), brief notes on the historical background, and a “pre-session question” to ponder to relate the text to one’s personal experience. The document also provides a suggested flow of discussion and activities for the congregational gatherings.
Groups may need additional time to plan congregational recruitment and the first congregational gathering. Future congregational gatherings will benefit from experience in the first one; there is no need to plan it all in advance.
Suggested agenda for clergy conversations:
A prayer invitation.
An introductory ice-breaker question related to the text (suggested on the text document).
Discussion of the text (discussion questions suggested on the text document).
An invitation to connect the text to scriptures from various faiths.
Open conversation focusing on the values to appreciate in the text.
Thoughts on how congregations would talk about the texts and engage in small group activities to build community (suggestions on the text document).
Details for the next clergy conversation.
Closing prayer invitation.
Suggested practices to guide clergy conversations:
Meeting in person, in a House of Worship, relying on the holiness of a faith-dedicated building to cradle these discussions.
Praying and being true to your differences. America protects our freedom to believe, and we honor America through our varied traditions. Consider song if that is part of your tradition.
Breaking bread.
Reading aloud a shared “Covenant for Conversation.” A sample is provided here.
Structuring the conversation with an acknowledgement of listening. In Hebrew, the word Shamati means “I hear you” and reminds us of Deuteronomy 6:4, the Shema. Thus, by listening to each other, we can feel God’s presence between us.
Focusing on America’s big story, our narratives, and our identity as Americans. Avoid today’s policy positions.
Minimizing conversation about the history/historical context. Instead, approach the conversation soulfully, asking what about this text speaks to the core values that provide meaning for your life.
Holding personal narratives up in the light created by the American narrative. We all experience this country differently. Respectfully listening to each other’s stories is a civic way to “love thy neighbor as thyself.”