Amphitheater Lecture Speakers - Post-Journal

Chautauqua 2012Chautauqua DialoguesReligion Department Launches DialoguesTell most people these days that you want to have a friendlyconversation about your differing political or religious views,and they are likely to head for the nearest exit.And yet the Department of Religion is launching ChautauquaDialogues, a new program designed to do exactly that.“The term ‘civil discourse’ often seems an oxymoron, butwhat could be closer to the heart of Chautauqua’s message tothe world?” said Joan Brown Campbell, director of theDepartment of Religion, in announcing the program.Chautauqua Dialogues is devoted to the premise that peopleof widely differing backgrounds and opinions can communicatein open, kind and compassionate ways, and that truly civildiscourse can bridge differences with love and understanding.At 3:30 p.m. every Friday afternoon, a number of smallgroups will convene to discuss the week’s Interfaith LectureSeries. Chautauqua Dialogues will be carefully facilitated toensure that all have an equal chance to express themselves,without interruption, and with the assurance that the dialogueremains respectful, confidential and on topic.A group of volunteer facilitators have been working as acommittee to develop the program and will continue thatprocess throughout the summer.Along with all the give and take about the week’s theme,there will be an important ongoing meta-conversation. Participantswill examine how we talk to one another, how we listen,how loving and compassionate we may or may not be.“Our intention is for participants to experience dialogue asan important tool for building compassion, understanding, andcommunity” said Subagh Winkelstern, who along with hiswife, Subagha, will help facilitate.Conversations will take place at several locations on thegrounds, and one can sign up at the 2 p.m. lectures to participate.Facilitator Roger Doebke will coordinate the signupprocess.LANDSCAPE,INC.3603 Edison Ave., Erie, PA 16510814.899.1880 • 814.899.1857 FAXPAGE 51