The
‘Difficult Conversations’ Programme is an
integral part of Peace and Reconciliation in a Plural
Society. We encourage and support groups, churches and
organisations to have conversations about things that
matter. We believe that good conversation has the power
to bring people together and in the dance people find
courage and hope for the future.
Since the ceasefires, the Belfast
Agreement, the establishing of an Assembly and then
the suspension of devolved government, have created
a new set of questions for some people. Old assumptions
have been challenged, and many are searching for new
understanding. Some people remain confused and uncertain
about what has been happening. Others have developed
passionate views and are clear about what ought to be
done.
In
our context it can be very costly to share our thoughts.
We risk being misunderstood or causing offence. So,
sometimes it is easier to err on the side of silence.
At the Centre we have become aware of Christians that
have wanted to talk honestly about our current political
impasse and the core issues that remain unresolved -
truth, justice and forgiveness to name a few, but have
found it difficult to do so.
With
this in mind, we have developed ‘Difficult Conversations’
to make it easier for friends, families, small groups,
prayer groups, organisations and congregations to share
what they are thinking and feeling about the difficult
issues and dilemmas we are facing. We also want to make
space for conversation that is different or surprising
to the old conversations we have been having.
For the Centre for Contemporary Christianity in Ireland
(CCCI), a ‘Difficult Conversation’ is any
conversation that is animated by a search for understanding
rather than for agreements or solutions.
A
‘Difficult Conversation’ offers those who
participate the opportunity to:
listen and be listened to so that all speakers can
be heard;
speak and be spoken to in a respectful manner;
develop or deepen mutual understanding;
learn about the perspectives of others and reflect
on one’s own views
