ST. ANDREW'S EPISCOPAL CHURCH

Adult Forum:  Wednesdays, 7:00-8:15 p.m., beginning September 24

 

Talking Across the Divide:  How to Communicate with People You Disagree with and Maybe Even Change the World

 

In our polarized culture, it’s harder than ever to engage with people outside our bubble and have our
views heard. Whether we’re debating online, arguing with a relative at Thanksgiving, or working
toward social change, the arguments that resonate so well with like-minded allies don’t hold much
weight with people on “the other side.” At a time when a simple conversation can quickly turn into a
battlefield, it’s up to us to learn how to talk to one another again.

We’ll take five Wednesdays, September 24–October 22, to discuss Justin Lee’s book Talking Across the
Divide. Lee is a social activist, who has spent years building bridges between conservatives and
progressives. He reveals how to use empathy, storytelling, and strategic dialogue to break through
barriers that make people resistant to differing views. Together we’ll gain fresh insights to
understand people outside our own echo chamber, expanding our tools to make a difference in an
us-vs.-them world.

Sign up at St. Andrew’s Ministry Fair on Sunday, September 7, or in the Parish Hall any time before
we start. You can also email Jim Hoover (jimhoover@stanfordalumni.org). The sooner you sign up,
the sooner we can order books. Books will be $15.