![]() Once everyone has spoken, turn over to the identified youth leader for folks to ask each other questions about their answers and how we can support each other. This is the jumping off point for the topic at hand.(If the group is larger, you may want to do this in smaller groups to save time) Everyone around the circle gets one sentence to answer. An adult observer asks the question “How is it with your soul?” and explains its significance as United Methodists.Offer a list of definitions, or a process the group can use to define terms specific to the conversation, so that each participant agrees on what a term means (For a gun conversation, consider how the definitions of semi-automatic, assault rifle, and bump stock could be similar, but each are very different).The suggested time is 15-20 minutes, led by a participant chosen ahead of time As a group, name unhelpful words/phrases that the group agreed not to use (like “gun nut” or other derogatory language) As terms are lifted up, the youth should justify why the words are unhelpful, and the final list must be agreed upon by everyone before the conversation itself can begin.Step 2) Naming the Landmines (or Trigger Words) ![]() If a rule/norm is being broken, or seems close to being broken, this observer can simply point to the rules/norms list as a signal to pause and change the course of the conversation. Also consider naming a person (preferably a youth or young adult) who is observing and has a way to signal the group if they perceive the need for a time out for prayer, to sing a song together, or to take a break.(Go over these together to be sure there is common understanding). Participants can use them during the conversation to keep things open and positive. Consider printing cards for each participant with Eric Law’s “ Respectful Communication Guidelines”.The suggested time is 15-20 minutes, led by a youth who was chosen ahead of time. The youth leader can invite all participants to be honest and open, and bravely talk about their thoughts respecting each other even though there may be disagreement.This can be done using either a large piece of paper, or white board. Keep this list of rules/norms visible during the meeting. (example: speaking from their own experiences, asking questions instead of making assumptions, etc). As a group, the youth should make a list of rules/norms that they would all agree to follow throughout the conversation.Step 1) Creating a “brave space” rather than a “safe space”. “ Guides in Covenant Discipleship with Youth” can provide helpful guidance for selecting and preparing youth leaders. Meet with them ahead of time to prepare for the conversation. Leadership: Invite one or several mature youth to consider leading the session. Have several trusted adults in the room on the periphery to make sure things don’t go off the rails. If you have more than 20 participants, consider having two sessions. Do include a candle (real or symbolic) and a cross. That altar can be created from items meaningful to the group that is gathering, or symbols and signs that represent the community they have come together to discuss. Room Set-up: Up to 20 chairs, arranged in the round, with a mini-altar in the middle. You could use it for conversation about school shootings, gun violence, violence in general, or just about any controversial topic. ![]() This is a basic outline to aid in the creation of a talking space for just that purpose. One of the ways we can be helpful to young people in times when they are processing difficult topics is by creating space for them to speak with each other, without the pressure of adults in the room who can be perceived as judging them.
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