Conflict Conversations: Mediation for Christian Leaders

Mediation is a method of helping people and their disputes through the use of a neutral third party, who assists them in reaching a voluntary agreement. Mediation is a method of handling conflict that has been used by many cultures throughout the ages. Most congregations have no rules or structure for helping people negotiate or collaborate, only procedures for voting or appealing to denominational authorities. Mediation can be viewed as a more authentically biblical form of conflict resolution than an adversarial system, following Jesus' word about how his disciples were to deal with conflicts (Matthew 18; 1 Corinthians 6:1-7).
In partnership with the Conflict Transformation Ministries of the NC Conference of the United Methodist Church, the Center for Reconciliation at Duke Divinity School is pleased to host a yearlong series of conversations about conflict transformation. Join us on Wednesday, April 11th with Grace J. Marsh, Executive Director, Elna B. Spaulding Conflict Resolution Center, Durham N.C., as she talks about Mediation for Christian Leaders. In addition to giving a short presentation and engaging participants' questions, Mrs. Marsh will provide practical resources and lists of materials to help equip us in our journey to be more self-aware and more confident as we work in and on conflict. This event is co-sponsored by the Hispanic House of Studies, Methodist House of Studies, and Thriving Rural Communities. Registration is requested but not required.