Politically Divided Congregations: A Curriculum for Reconciliation and Transformation

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Description

This curriculum helps congregations discuss polarizing social and political issues while engaging in antiracism and social justice ministry. Sojourners created the curriculum to help people work together from a common biblical understanding of justice. To help participants do this, the curriculum includes lessons grounded in concepts such as the Body of Christ, reconciliation, and the mission and purpose of Christian congregations.

Features

Eight sessions
Group leader tips
Background material
Discussion questions
Activities

Recommended Audience

Clergy, educators, and small groups

Cost

Free

Practical Applications

Reflect on the curriculum’s guidance about its risks and rewards to determine whether it’s a good resource for your congregation.
Host a study group that explores this curriculum to build understanding and constructive conversations about social justice in your congregation.

Updated: March 23, 2025

About the Contributor

Miriam V. Quezada Mendez

Bilingual Associate for Resource Consulting

Miriam V. Quezada Mendez serves in the Center’s Northwest office in Crown Point as the Bilingual Associate for Resource Consulting, working to advance the Center’s mission to strengthen Indiana congregations by providing resources to the communities that make up the diverse tapestry of the Northwest region.

Born in Jalisco, Mexico, Miriam immigrated to the United States as a child and grew up on the East Side of Chicago. She earned her bachelor’s degree at Illinois College, graduating with a double major in Communications & Rhetorical Studies and International Studies with a concentration in gender and immigration equity.

Before joining the Center, Miriam served as the Director of Communications at the Parliament of the World’s Religions. In her tenure with the Parliament, Miriam worked closely with faith, community, and nonprofit leaders on outreach, engagement, and interfaith community-building efforts. She is an enthusiastic advocate for youth, Indigenous, and women’s voices in faith and civic spaces.

Miriam is a member of the St. Paul Catholic Church in Valparaiso, where she and her family attend weekly Spanish service.

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