Building Bridges- Let’s Talk Even When We Don’t Agree
In today’s polarized world, it can feel challenging to have meaningful conversations with those who hold different viewpoints. Can we bridge divides and engage in civil dialogue? How can we, as individuals and a community, work toward creating a more peace-filled world? These are some of the important questions that will be explored on at our Building Bridges event on October 23 at 6:30 pm, sponsored by the Blessed Sacrament Social Justice Committee.
We are excited to welcome three insightful speakers: Jon Lynch from Three Rivers Company, Kathy Snyder, director of the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition, and Erin Patrice, founder of The Breaking Bread Village. Each of them brings a unique perspective on fostering civil conversations in everyday life. They will share practical strategies and ideas on how we can improve our ability to engage in thoughtful, respectful discussions, even when we disagree.
After the presentations, attendees will have the opportunity to share their own experiences and practice these new conversation skills in small group discussions, guided by the speakers. This interactive portion of the event is designed to encourage reflection and personal growth, providing a safe space to apply the ideas discussed.
As Pope Francis reminds us: “The world will recognize the disciples of Jesus by the way they love one another. Love, in other words, is the Christian’s identity card, the only valid ‘document’ identifying us as Christians.” Let’s come together to live out this message through civility, kindness, and a shared commitment to peace.
We hope you’ll join us for an evening of learning, dialogue, and growth. All are welcome!
About Our Speakers
Erin Patrice
Erin is a conversationalist and a Midland, MI, resident and native to Cincinnati, Ohio. She is the creator and founder of The Breaking Bread Village; a space intentionally created for people to come together and have transparent conversations with no judgment so ideas and perspectives may be heard respectfully. Erin is a mother and wife and has been a community advocate for twenty years. She worked as a life coach for the Midland Public Schools with the at-risk youth and alternative education program.
Kathy Snyder
Kathy Snyder is the Director of the Midland Area Wellbeing Coalition. She spent 27 years teaching high school psychology before moving into this community role. Her educational background is in both counseling and applied positive psychology as she is endlessly curious about the human experience. Kathy and her husband Mike are outdoor enthusiasts and have been married for 31 years. They are proud parents to two wonderful young adults. Kathy is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership with a concentration in Community Leadership.
Jon Lynch
Jon Lynch is the President of Three Rivers Corporation, which for over 45 years has served health care, commercial, and industrial construction customers with the hallmarks of safety, quality and value. Previously Jon spent 26 years in public service to the Michigan communities of Midland, Big Rapids, and Coldwater in positions ranging from Planning Director to City Manager. In 2005 Jon was named Leader of the Year by the Leadership Midland Alumni Association, he received the Midland Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman’s Award in 2014 and in 2016 was named Michigan’s Outstanding Community Administrator by the Michigan Association of Planning.