Rev. Shannon Led Workshop Series in Tennessee
The Presbyterian Older Adult Ministry Network hosted a series focused on navigating difficult societal conversations.
Updated on Sept. 28, 2026 in Christianity
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The Rev. Denise Shannon presented the Walking Wisely curriculum at the Rooted in Hope conference in Knoxville, Tennessee, in September 2026. The program seeks to facilitate productive dialogue on complex issues like poverty and Christian nationalism.
Why it matters
The series aims to move participants beyond defensive debates toward active listening and mutual understanding. It provides a structured space for addressing contentious topics without causing conversational shutdowns.
The workshop uses a six-part structure that incorporates Scripture, history, science, and personal experience. This program is currently available through Westminster Presbyterian Church in Westminster, Colorado.
The players
The Rev. Denise Shannon
She serves as the moderator of the Presbyterian Older Adult Ministry Network.
Westminster Presbyterian Church
This religious organization based in Westminster, Colorado, developed the Walking Wisely curriculum.
The details
Developed by Westminster Presbyterian Church, the series utilizes small-group exercises and reflection periods to integrate various viewpoints. Each session follows a formal format beginning and ending with an opening and closing prayer.
Timeline
The POAMN conference took place in Knoxville in September 2026.
The Walking Wisely curriculum is scheduled for publication in early 2027.
Culture Shift
The introduction of the Walking Wisely series at the Rooted in Hope conference marks a shift toward intentional, structured dialogue in religious settings. This approach counters the rise of polarization by prioritizing personal narrative and active listening over ideological debate.
The curriculum provides a template for congregants and community members to initiate constructive conversations about poverty and immigration within their own circles. Participants can utilize these structured reflection periods to improve communication habits during complex discussions.
The takeaway
Engaging in active listening requires a structured environment that validates personal experience alongside academic and spiritual context. Implementing such frameworks can help groups navigate polarizing topics while maintaining community cohesion.
What happens next
The Rev. Denise Shannon is slated to release the complete Walking Wisely curriculum for broader use in early 2027.
Further reading
For more on faith-based community programming, visit the Christianity section.
More information
View the Walking Wisely workshop slides for an overview of the curriculum.
Source note: This article includes information reported by PC(USA).
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