Salon

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.

The History of Salon

What is Salon?

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.”

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 Schedule

Honesty ... The Best Policy?

May 3

Facilitator: Kathy Swensen

How honest are you? Your answer may range anywhere from being brutally honest to

engaging in outright people-pleasing. Most of us likely fall somewhere between these

extremes. How do you decide whether it’s kinder to tell a “little white lie” or if only “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth” will do?

How Do You Define Self Care?

May 10

Facilitator: Juli Burnell

What do you do to take good care of yourself? Do you make yourself a priority or is that “being selfish”? Let’s discuss how loving ourselves prepares us to love others.

Pick a Topic!

May 17

Facilitators: All of us

Join us for our always popular “Pick a Topic”. The group will select a sealed envelope

that contains a topic with related conversation starters and take it from there. Join us as we see where our discussion goes!

Adaptive Color Guard

May 24

Guest Facilitator: Vi Taylor

Join us for a powerful and inspiring time as we welcome Vi Taylor, who will be sharing about the incredible work of the Miami Valley Adaptive Color Guard—an organization she proudly volunteers with. Founded in 2012 by Cathy Barnes-Miller, this groundbreaking program was the first of its kind in Ohio, created to support individuals with special needs in developing motor skills, listening skills, and meaningful peer relationships. What began in Miamisburg has grown into a vibrant regional group with over 18 members, performing across the Dayton and Cincinnati areas. Come hear Vi’s heart, learn about this beautiful ministry of inclusion, and be inspired by what’s possible when everyone is given a chance to shine.