A Unique Gathering Offering Conversation and Community
Harmony Creek's Salon provides a non-worship setting to gather and engage in thoughtful, stimulating conversation. Each week is unique as Salon members and guest facilitators offer interesting and ever-changing topics for discussion.
Although the concept of Salon is not well known today, conversation salons were once popular across Europe and in the United States. Here at Harmony Creek, former pastor Ruth Hopkins created our Salon several years ago as a way to more fully embrace the popular United Church of Christ slogan, “No matter who you are or where you are on life’s journey, you are welcome here.”
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Salon has no sermon, prayers, or singing. It is a safe, non-judgmental space for participants to share ourselves, build relationships, and enjoy discussions about a variety of life experiences. We think that’s pretty amazing! Many Salon participants also support church-wide justice activities and participate in congregational events.
As one member of the group put it, “Salon provides an opportunity for us to discuss how to be better people to the benefit of ourselves, one another and the world.” We welcome you, your thoughts, and your ideas to our community.
Salon meets on Sunday mornings from
10:30 am to 11:30 am in the church lounge.
Salon
Salon Schedule
Oct 6: 10 Possessions to Lose
Facilitator: Juli Burnell
Do you find yourself obtaining “stuff” without realizing why? Does it ever feel like “stuff”
weighs you down? What things are important to you for your happiness? This discussion will
help us make more choices for a simpler, happier life.
Oct 13: What’s on Your Mind?
Facilitators: Salon Participants
We get into some fascinating discussions about things that have been going on in our world.
What would YOU like to talk about?
Oct 20: How Do You Solve a Problem Like Columbus?
Facilitator: Kathy Swensen
Did you observe Columbus Day or Indigenous Peoples Day last week? Both? Neither? These can be
tricky questions as they point to the "messiness" of America's history. Join us for a no holds barred
discussion of our history's winners and losers, heroes and villians, and everything in between.
Oct 27: Do You Know about Period Kits Ohio?
Guest Facilitator: Geoff Davis, Founder, Period Kits Ohio
Period Kits Ohio believes that everyone who has a period should have consistent and reliable access to the products they need and when they need them. They distribute period kits consisting of a month’s worth of product to those struggling to make ends meet right here in Ohio through our network of supportive community agencies. Come and hear more about this important organization and find out how you can get involved.
Salon "Rules of the Road"
We follow these guidelines to help create a safe and inclusive community:
Show courtesy and respect to each other.
Respect confidentiality with private information.
Listen to the thoughts and ideas of others.
(Listening is more than waiting for an opportunity to speak.)
Speak your truth with gentleness; use “I statements.”
Share the air-time so everyone has a chance to contribute.
Refrain from interrupting others.
Assume good intent.
Contact
For more information on Salon, contact the church office at (937) 434-3941.