Three one-day events were held at Immanuel Lutheran, Moses Lake (Oct. 25), Our Savior Lutheran, Clarkston, WA (Nov. 1), and First United Methodist, Pocatello (Nov. 15). Our CaSTLE Grant from Wartburg Seminary funded our two professional facilitators, Lauren Hackman-Brooks and Rebecca Hoyt, and paid for lunch at each event. But YOU, all of the participants, made these gatherings so hopeful and life-giving!

Rebecca leading in Clarkston - 55 people from five denominations up and down the Palouse

Our goals were to foster relationships across denominations, deepen understanding of context, and discern next steps together. We began with Dwelling in the Word, using the Body of Christ metaphor from Romans 12. We spent time talking about and listening to others explain what's meaningful in our denominations' practices. We mapped our contextual realities. In the afternoon we spent some time telling faith stories. We then returned to our mapping to discern themes and start thinking about deeper collaborations. We ended each event in the sanctuary with Affirmation of Baptism. Geographic cohorts are encouraged to continue collaborating with the help of coaches (coaches will be paid with grant funds).

Rebecca leading in Pocatello - 42 people from Twin Falls, ID to Star Valley, WY representing four denominations

From the Participants:

What went well?

Very organized presentation and respectful of time. Sharing stories was meaningful and impactful.
Great fellowship with folks in the body of Christ.
I was glad to see the leaders of our ecumenical partners at the event.
I enjoyed the opportunity to share with other participants as well as the people at my table. I think we all realized that we have similar goals across denominations. I liked being assigned to tables, which motivated us to learn more about each other.
Our table discussions were guided excellently. No silly games. No wasted time. Each activity was built thoughtfully on the prior one! We gained so much as we learned!
I enjoyed the storytelling very much and will try and keep that up and encourage it in others

Around 25 people gathered from four denominations in Moses Lake

Lauren reviewing group work in Moses Lake

What next steps will you (and your congregation) take following this event? What partnerships will you pursue?

Team up with regional churches for further discussion on community unity
Possible ministry partnership outside the denomination
I think we will be more aware of opportunities to partner with other congregations.
We are discussing ways to cooperate. One project has already come up.
We will try to keep up the relationships we formed.
Continue partnering with our other churches to serve the community.

Dec. 1-3, Bishop Meggan, Pastor Phil, Pastor Liv, and bishops/leaders from the Episcopal Church, United Methodist Church, United Church of Christ, and Presbyterian Church USA will gather for mutual learning at St. Gertrude’s Monastery near Cottonwood, ID (another gathering funded by the CaSTLE Grant).