The type of polarization we are experiencing now in America is appropriately referred to as “toxic polarization” because we don’t just disagree but see each other as “the enemy.” Toxic political polarization involves ridicule, contempt and disdain for people who vote differently.
Why Christians Should Care About Political Polarization
For Christians, polarization is particularly bad because it increases hatred and anger and dehumanizes people. Also, we are told by Jesus that we are to be peacemakers. We will look at political polarization from a spiritual rather than a political perspective and ask ourselves four questions:
- Which Christian teachings help us understand how to respond to toxic polarization?
- How am I doing in my own political attitudes and actions towards others?
- In what specific ways can my faith help me combat polarization in daily life?
- How do I want to respond to what we have discussed together?
The program has three goals:
- Understand why political polarization is a serious moral problem for Christians
- Learn how our Christian teachings can help combat political polarization
- Identify some specific ways we can be peacemakers and help bridge divides between people of different political views.
FACILITATORS: Paul Manfredi has been a member of Braver Angels since 2021 and a member of St. John’s Episcopal Church in New Milford. He is an approved Ambassador, Workshop Moderator, and Debate Chair. He is committed to the Braver Angels method and find their process enables him to have deeper conversations about difficult topics. He believes in Democracy and thinks it works when we can freely share our thoughts without fear. We are at our best when we can openly communicate and can understand our differences. We all can learn something from one another and if we listen carefully we might learn something new too.
Ken Steller has been a member of Braver Angels for 7 years. Over the past 2 years he has become an Ambassador and Workshop Moderator for the CT Braver Angels State Alliance. He believes that Braver Angels has taken a leadership role in providing the knowledge, skills and strategies for individuals, communities, and organizations to move beyond divisive partisanship to a deeper understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives on challenging issues. Braver Angels programs provide everyone with opportunities to freely express their perspectives without fear through a supportive environment that promotes dignity and respect for each person.
Event Timeslots (2)
Session Three (2:15–3:45 PM)
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April 27
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