Religion is a topic traditionally not discussed in mixed company. But what do we lose when we avoid exploring our religious differences? Oregon is among the states in the US where people are most likely to identify as religiously unaffiliated. Many Oregonians have spiritual practices that both align with and transcend institutional definitions. Others filter strongly held values through religious traditions and frameworks. Writer and former chaplain Elizabeth Harlan-Ferlo will lead participants in examining the tools we use to talk about religion without dismissing others' beliefs or flattening the beautiful and sometimes harrowing complexities of our experiences. At the host's request, this conversation may be customized to fit the specific needs of their community.

 

Leader

Elizabeth Harlan-Ferlo | Portland

Elizabeth Harlan-Ferlo has created extensive curricula on religion and intercultural competency and served for nine years as an Episcopal school lay chaplain. She is trained in facilitation for community, conflict, and collaboration with a creative arts focus. Elizabeth holds an MFA from the University of Oregon and her poetry has been published in many literary journals, including Fourteen Hills, Anglican Theological Review, and Tupelo Quarterly. She hosts the Eavesdrop podcast and curates the Artists in Conversation Series for Interfaith Muse.

Program Themes

Community , Divides , Oregon , Religion , Spirituality

Equipment Needs

digital projector , screen , speakers , wireless Internet access

All equipment optional