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Can we talk politics at church? With people who think like us? With those who are different?

Definitely not in an election year, right?

Christ’s call to love one another often feels like a call to minimizing conflict—and by extension, difference. But what if conflict has something to teach us? The Colossian Forum has spent over a decade exploring conflict within Christian communities as a call to love God and love our neighbors.

Our church’s DEI Ministry is proud to offer a six-session, small group opportunity using a Colossian Forum curriculum centered on political dialog. Facilitated by Pastor Philip and Charon Hannink, this group will explore and model Christ-centered forms of engagement around political ideology and conflict.

The group will meet on Sundays from 3-5pm on the following dates:

• March 24
• April 7
• April 21
• May 5
• May 19
• June 2

There are many goals for this program. Changing anyone’s mind about politics isn’t one of them. This group process is designed to allow for authentic relationships that will bear witness to a better way through conflict. There is a real opportunity to practice Christian virtues like empathy, curiosity, and to learn skills of how to speak about political passions without threatening or alienating others.

Our pilot program has ten spots available, and the group will be selected to be balanced by political affiliation, gender, and age. Confidentiality within the group will be assured. Not everyone will agree—maybe ever—but steamrolling, monopolizing, or shaming others will not be allowed. Each session will include connection, unity, engagement, and reflecting praises and laments to God in prayer.

If you are drawn to this opportunity, please submit an application by March 15th.

Submitting an application is understood as a commitment to attend at least five of the six sessions, if you are selected. Please hold these dates and times for this opportunity until you hear if you will be able to participate in the pilot. Completing brief, periodic assessments will also be expected for participation in the pilot program.

Sunday, April 14, Bishop Tom Berlin will be preaching at both our 9am and 11am services. Bishop Berlin began his new role as the Resident Bishop in The Florida Conference of The United Methodist Church in January 2023. Since then, he has been a dynamic leader and we are excited to have the opportunity for him to be on campus.

Come hear an impactful sermon and more information from the FL Conference!

Join us for 4 Pillars Counseling & Enrichment Center’s next Enrichment Workshop as we explore ways to leave a charitable legacy through Planned Giving. During this session, leaders will discuss the difference between planned giving and an annual pledge. The following topics will be expanded upon to help you achieve your generosity goals and leave a legacy during your lifetime and beyond.

• Reflecting on Personal Values
• Exploring Gift Options and Tailoring Your Plan
• Consulting with Financial Planner and Estate Planning Attorney
• Celebrating Your Impact

Childcare is available. Please indicate the number of children and their age during registration. 

DEI Doc Night is back on Wednesday, March 6th from 7–9pm in the Fellowship Hall! We will watch the 2016 short documentary Spectrum: A Story of The Mind which presents a number of stories of kids, teens, and adults living with autism. We will learn from a live panel discussion featuring parents and families members of children with autism, as well as a professional advisor from UCF–CARD (Center for Autism and Related Disabilities). Our time will end with small group discussions about autism in our communities and our church and a call to action to foster belonging and equity for people with autism.

DEI Doc Night is a recurring series that introduces various topics relating to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and seeks to build connections between our church and community leaders in those fields. Registration is free, but required. Light snacks and treats will be offered.