If you want to build community, or deepen community connections, join us for Episode 178 as we seek to model grace-filled, curious conversation about topics we can sidestep in our communities. 

Episode 178 is Part 1 of a two-part conversation with April Casperson. April serves as the Director of Diversity and Inclusion for the West Ohio Conference. April shares grace-filled wisdom about community, relationships, and yes, diversity. Her role is to help people work better across difference.

We start by exploring the distinction between groups and teams as well as community. Then we name an assumption one of us made about community. By looking at the intentional choices that nurture community, our conversation turns back to the distorted views that can emerge about groups and teams – and what might need to be different for authentic communities to form.

Early in the episode, April reminds us about “any difference that makes a difference.” As our conversation unfolds, we talk about agape love. We begin to explore whether community is always supposed to be comfortable and what love looks like when we’re building relationships. We’re reminded that sometimes we start the conversation with race. Oftentimes we start the conversation with theology and politics or generational differences or geographic differences. 

Listen to explore questions about community, diversity, love, and belonging. Listen to experience curiosity, conversation, and a taste of community in a virtual space. 

Write it Down/Talk it Out

1. Do you want community? Why, or why not? 
2. What attributes make up an authentic, Christ-centered community? What behaviors support those attributes? 
3. Is community always supposed to be comfortable? Why, or why not? 
4. What relationships do you need to cultivate to experience community?