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
Sept 1: Let’s Embrace the Present Moment
Facilitator: Juli Burnell
Do you find yourself obsessing about the past or worrying about the future? Do you miss the joy in the present moment? Let’s discuss how to “be where our feet are.”
Sept 8: School Daze!
Facilitator: Kathy Swensen
Now that the kids are back at school, it's a good time to reminisce and reflect on our own schooling and its impact on our lives. We'll share our school experiences, talk about what we learned and what we wished we'd learned, and consider what makes a good learning experience. There will be no pop quiz—we promise!
Sept 15: Do You Know About the Tulsa Race Massacre?
Facilitator: Diana Miller
What caused the murder of hundreds of black Americans while thousands fled their neighborhood as it burned to the ground? This horrific event has also been referred to as The Burning of Black Wall Street. Could it happen again today?
Sept 22: Sharing Our Stories
Facilitator: Pastor Michelle
Pastor Michelle will lead a discussion around the power of our stories. She will share some of her story and invite others to do the same. Let’s remember what the wise Maya Angelou once said: “There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside you.”
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Sept. 29: 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?
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.