Learn and Discern: Making Room for Faithful Conversation

Our five-week Learn and Discern series concludes with an invitation to put listening into practice. In “Spirit-led Conversations, Courageous Tensions”, host Mitch McCartney speaks with Kristen Opalinski, ELCA manager for ecumenical and interreligious relations, and Regina Banks, director of the Lutheran Office of Public Policy–California. Listening time: 27 minutes, available anytime.

Their conversation explores how Christians approach difficult discussions and how ELCA social teachings inform public witness and community life. They encourage empathy, active listening, and openness to the Holy Spirit amid polarization.

Across these five weeks, we have considered history, Lutheran ethics, conscience, and disagreement. We may finish with questions still unresolved. Faithful conversation takes time, especially when trust has been strained or people’s sense of belonging is at stake.

For our Grand Canyon Synod community, a next step can be modest and meaningful: invite a conversation, listen carefully, and make room for concerns that are difficult to express.

This week’s invitation: Consider gathering a small group around the ELCA’s Conscience and Conversation study. Begin with prayer and agree to speak from personal experience, avoid assumptions about others’ motives, and allow everyone room to speak or pass.

Return to any of the five podcast episodes and visit the ELCA’s reconsideration page for process information. Questions and feedback may be sent to Reconsiderations@elca.org.

May God grant us courage to speak truthfully, patience to listen, and love for one another as we continue discerning together.