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Sacred Ground is curriculum designed by The Episcopal Church to foster thoughtful and honest conversations about America’s history of race and racism, grounded in our Christian faith. This course makes use of videos and reading to offer participants a narrative of race that weaves together storytelling, class struggles, and regional identity. This curriculum is part of The Episcopal Church’s commitment to becoming “a beloved community,” which is defined by four key features:
This course is unlike other formation classes at St. Alban’s and requires both pre-session preparation and active participation. Each session will have required viewing (averaging 68 minutes/session) and reading (essays, book excerpts, interviews). All necessary materials will be provided before each session for all registrants. Participants will also be asked to commit to a set of principles for dialogue, called Touchstones. In each session, we will talk through our viewing and reading for the session and then spend the majority of our time in discussions at round tables, known as “dialogue circles.”
There are 11 sessions total, which meet every 3 or so weeks. We recognize that life is full and that you may not be able to attend every session or may join the course mid-way through–that is okay! We ask that you commit to the work for the sessions you are able to attend and simply do your best to fill-in some of what you missed through additional viewing/reading from missed sessions.
Sessions will take place on select Sunday afternoons in the Parish Hall from 1–3 PM. Lunch will be included (suggested $5 donation welcome, but not required).
Sacred Ground is FREE, but you must register to participate. Once registered, you will receive a reminder email about the next session and to RSVP for the session.
If you have any lingering questions before registering, email Dr. Rachel Toombs, Director of Formation & Connection, or give her a call at 254-221-7133.
All sessions meet on Sunday afternoons from 1–3 PM in the Parish Hall. To participate, please register for Sacred Ground, you will then be able to RSVP for upcoming session. This class will run through the fall.
Upon registration, you will receive login information to access course material, including video links, required reading, and optional resources for each session.