This past week at the College for Congregational Development was a deep dive into the beautiful, complex, and sometimes messy work of being the Body of Christ together. Through sessions on personality styles, discussion styles, conflict styles, and intercultural conflict styles, we explored the many ways people show up—how we speak, listen, disagree, and connect. And more importantly, we learned how to make room for those differences rather than be divided by them.
With tools like active listening, summarizing for clarity, and practices for grounding ourselves when we’re emotionally triggered, we were invited into the holy work of bridge-building—of creating space where every voice can be heard and every person seen. It wasn’t just theory. It came alive in our small groups, in shared laughter and tough conversations, and especially in the sacred trust among my diocesan clergy cohort. Going through this intensive week of learning and practice with the Rev. Canon Richard Norman, the Very Rev. Michelle Robertshaw, the Rev. Michael Brady, and the Rev. Marcella Drawdy helped to build partnerships not just among different churches, but deaneries, as well.
The most meaningful formation didn’t just happen in the classroom—it was found in each sunrise a reminder of God’s mercies made new, and in the realization that we are not alone in this call. God created us for relationship — with one another and with Him. And this week reminded me that the Church can be a place where that call is lived out with grace, courage, and joy.