What our program participants are saying

Following a 25 year career providing counseling as a therapist, I was curious to participate in the pilot for Want to Talk: Communication Tools for Divided Times. Communication skills were an important skill addressed with many clients. I thought this new JFM module covered many of the essential "tools" for effective communication in most relationships, especially with the recent challenges with so many controversial topics. I hear many people comment: "I just don't know how to respond", or "how do I have this conversation". This module will provide many skills that can make a real difference.

Nancy Rosenberg • Pilot Group

As a Unitarian Universalist residing in the Bible Belt, I've become used to interfaith-based conversations that revolve around all the flavors of Christianity, so this course on Spiritual and Racial Equity surprised me as being true to its promise of welcoming and speaking to people of all faith traditions. My favorite part could be the guided meditations which were effective even over Zoom. I recommend this course for people who recognize that systemic racism in American makes individual relationships messy, complicated and nuanced - yet the participant is prepared to dig in anyway, willing to experience discomfort at times because, ultimately, the pavers on the pathway to justice we are laying down are comprised of joy, prophetic wisdom, empowerment, and good will, all of them being spiritually-centered attributes and pursuits that we may overlook. Engaging in the 'struggle' and the 'work' of anti-racism may be necessary labor but this program prepares participants' hearts and minds to be open to the beauty and transformation that are always within our reach along the way, no matter how distant we may be from the justice we seek.

Jim H.

Participating in and facilitating the "Want to Talk" program was a game changer for me. Effective communication is the key to understanding as well as the path to furthering deeper relationships and healthier conversations which can only lead to a more equitable society. The program has instilled in me a very intentional inner voice that prompts me to "practice the pause" before responding. I look forward to attending and participating in more JustFaith programs in the future. I would encourage everyone to do the same.

Rhonda Rawlings