Discussion Questions:
- Experiencing “Othering”: Jenai Auman describes feeling “othered” by her church leaders. What are some of the emotional and spiritual impacts of being “othered” in a faith community, and how can they be addressed?
- Boundaries and Systemic Issues: Auman mentioned the importance of advocating for personal boundaries and addressing systemic problems within the church. How do boundaries contribute to a healthy church environment, and what are practical ways to implement them?
- Understanding and Healing from Trauma: Jenai links staying in unhealthy environments to traumatic conditioning. How can individuals recognize and break free from such patterns in faith communities?
- Shalom and Hesed: The episode discusses “shalom” and “hesed” as concepts of peace, wholeness, and loving-kindness. How can these theological concepts be practically applied within church leadership and community to counteract “othering”?
- Open-Handedness: Markus Watson talks about the importance of an open-handed approach to inclusivity. How can churches foster an environment of open-handedness rather than tight-fistedness, and what challenges might arise in the process?
- Leaders and Defensiveness: Jenai suggests that church leaders should not react defensively when addressing issues of exclusion. What are effective strategies for leaders to manage insecurities and foster a culture of vulnerability and openness?
- Identifying Harmful Patterns: Auman speaks about recognizing and naming harmful patterns within the church. How can church members and leaders identify these patterns, and what steps can they take to address and rectify them?
- Domestic Violence Survivors and Spiritual Insights: Auman parallels her persistence in staying at the church to experiences of domestic violence survivors. How can faith communities support survivors of trauma in finding safe spaces for healing and growth?
- Balancing Comfort and Challenge: The distinction between healthy discomfort and lack of safety is crucial for growth. How can churches balance providing comfort with challenging members to grow beyond their comfort zones?
- Advice for the Othered and for Leaders: What actionable advice can be given to individuals who feel “othered” within their church, and what can church leaders do to ensure they are not perpetuating exclusionary practices?