Some passages from Scripture and PCUSA’s Constitution you may want to consider and study as you encounter divisive conflict in the church. It may be helpful to study and reflect on these passages or portions of these passages individually or as group through the process of Lectio Divina. Additionally, you may want to consider if certain passages would be helpful to be read as part of the negotiation process. For example, you may choose to begin and end each negotiation session with certain passages.
The First Principle and Foundation
The Goal of our life is to live with God forever. God, who loves us, gave us life. Our own response of love allows God's life to flow into us without limit.
Spiritual Practices and Perspectives of Negotiation - Prayer
Suggested Books for The Spiritual Practices and Perspectives of Negotiation
Scriptures for times of conflict.
1. Hear the word (that is addressed to you).
First reading (twice). Listen for the word or phrase from the passage that attracts you. Repeat it over softly to yourself during a one-minute silence. When the leader gives the signal, say aloud only that word or phrase (without elaboration).
2. Ask, "How is my life touched?"
Second-stage reading. Listen to discover how this passage touches your life today. Consider possibilities or receive a sensory impression during the two minutes of silence. When the leader gives the signal, speak a sentence or two perhaps beginning with the words 1 hear, 1 see, 1 sense. (Or you may pass.)
Liturgies for times when congregations are leaving a denomination.
Sacred Reading for Community Prayer [adapted from Carl Arico, A Taste of Silence (Continuum 1999)].
Lectio: Listening to the Word of God or Reading God’s Word