Introduction:

We know conflict is part of life and can be both creative and destructive. We notice that many people – including those in faith communities – can struggle to find helpful ways to respond to change, transition, tension and difference. Some structures, cultures, systems and habits can make it difficult for people to hear each other well and relationships may break down. We also know that there is much transformational potential in conflict.

Accepting these realities, and wanting to offer a positive response, Place for Hope is delighted to be running the Certificate in ‘Faith in Change and Conflict’ in Scotland again in 2023. 

Knowing there is help and support available can be a great source of hope for those experiencing difficulties and divisions within their congregations and communities, and Place for Hope have a proven record in helping individuals and faith communities find both support and ways through the difficulties. 

Course Information:

The course will be delivered mid-week over two residential 3-day blocks of teaching at St Mary’s Kinnoull on the dates specified above, as well as two 2-hour online sessions on dates to be planned with participants, attendance is required at all blocks of training.

This advanced course is for all in leadership (ordained, lay, formal, informal) in our churches who want to deepen their learning about conflict, change and transition in faith contexts, in order to strengthen their skills base for local application.

Over the two 3-day in person sessions plus two online sessions,  the course will cover four units:

Unit 1: Introduction to Conflict Transformation and Personal Development
We understand how conflict, change and transition operate in others, and in our churches when we understand how it operates in ourselves. Unit 1 guides us through this journey, and introduces us to the course, and to the context in which we will be applying our learning.

Unit 2: Communication and Facilitation Skills
Honing facilitation and communication skills is essential as we lead others through times of change and transition. This unit offers a bedrock of learning for the following units.

Unit 3: Conflict and Mediation Skills
In this unit we dig deeply into some of the skills needed for transforming conflict, for hosting difficult conversations, and for working together to transform the culture of our churches and communities.

Unit 4: Conflict in the Context of Faith
What are the specific dynamics at play in church contexts when we encounter change and difference? What does the bible teach us about conflict and change? How do we apply our learning in our own faith context? These are some of the questions explored in this unit.

Timings (TBC):

Day 1: 3pm - 7pm
Day 2 9am - 6pm
Day 3 9am - 4pm

Day 4 3pm - 7pm
Day 5 9am - 6pm
Day 6 9am - 4pm
 

Residential with accommodation included at Kinnoull Monastery

Regular breaks will be factored in through each day. There will also be time for personal reflection and social space, as the training will be delivered with practical as well as theoretical applications. The course aims to enable new learning and provide participants with the skills and resources for individual or church-based ministry in the areas of Change and Conflict.

A certificate will be provided on successful completion of the course which involves the submission of a reflective tasks portfolio. Participants will be able to use this certification as a stepping stone towards accreditation as a mediator at a later date should this be of interest. Please enquire for further information.

Quotes from previous participants:

“There is no doubt that this lively and engaging short course will inspire and challenge you to think about how conflict transformation can change the landscape wherever people are working together. A truly positive experience!”

“My experience of the Faith in Change and Conflict Course was one of insight, reflection and learning about ways to respond through my faith to those situations in which I find myself in my life and work. The course enabled me to reflect on my own style of leadership and learn new methods of living out that leadership in my everyday life. I would recommend this course to anyone."