Led by area faith leaders known for their ability to build community at the intersection of spiritual growth and social justice, these workshops -- Leading Reconciling Communities -- have offered brief theory presentations that serve as a springboard for individual and group exercises designed to help participants develop an understanding of strategies and skills for strengthening the calling of all God's people.

Leaders Judith Oleson and Tulaine Shabazz Marshall will engage participants in the nature of conflict and healing in organizational systems. Participants are encouraged to learn specific facilitation skills for healing historical wounds and embedding reconciling practices in parish and other organizational settings.

Oleson is an associate professor of Sociology / Social Work at Gordon College where she teaches group work, organizational systems, and directs the field practicum program. Her life work has focused on building partnerships for social change initiatives, and she currently provides consultation and training to non-profits and faith communities in visioning and change, organizational healing, and facilitating reconciliation.

Marshall is the national director of Graduate and Youth Opportunities at Youth Build USA where she oversees national efforts to help Youth Build graduates successfully enter college and the 21st century workforce. Marshall has significant leadership experience in national expansion, organizational development, program assessment, strategic planning, school launch, and training/staff development, believing in the power of young people to make the world a more inclusive and equitable place for all its residents.

The cost of this workshop is $75 or $60 per person for three or more people registering together; a light lunch is included with each registration. Pre-registration is required; to register for this event, contact Priscilla Burns at pburns@eds.edu or call 617-682-1506. The workshops are handicap accessible. Participants are encouraged to take public transportation as parking is limited. There is a $10 charge for parking in the EDS lot.

Further information is available here.