Throughout scripture, Jesus engages with marginalized people, with those who are cast out of our society. Yet our opinions about those living on the margins are often formed without their story being known. At North Broadway United Methodist Church in Columbus, space is being created for the marginalized to share first-hand accounts of their life story – to be heard by those willing to listen in a safe space.

“Deep Listening Through Marginalized Voices” is a monthly gathering to listen and learn first-hand from groups who feel left out of the larger community. During these monthly gatherings, personal stories can be heard from survivors of sex trafficking, religious/ethnic minorities, the homeless, or individuals diagnosed with mental illness, to name a few.

The Rev. Kristen Lawson, Associate Pastor at North Broadway, created the framework for this ministry while serving in another appointment. She was glad to be able to implement these sessions at North Broadway. Once, Lawson was in a conversation with someone who shared narrow views of another who did not look like them or any member of their immediate community. The views expressed seemed to be formed from what they’d seen on television or in movies. That experience left an impression on Lawson.

“Jesus calls us to love our neighbors. The first step to loving our neighbor is to know our neighbor,” Lawson said.

Human Trafficking was the topic of the first Deep Listening event at North Broadway. Attendees heard stories of two women who were survivors of human trafficking. The session created a curiosity in attendees, and further discussion continued in the restrooms, lobby, and parking lot. One person said this session taught them how to listen.

Lawson remarked, “People genuinely desire to hear; some don’t know how. Often fear keeps them from it.”

These sessions have not been easy to plan. Some invited to share their stories have declined based on experiences of church settings not being a safe space. Lawson is hopeful that continuing the Deep Listening gatherings can help change that.

“Active listening is an act of love,” Lawson states. “We come together for this time of deep listening to witness the grace of God woven through the lives of those whose stories might not otherwise be heard by those without relationship or prior point of connection.”

The next Deep Listening session will be Thursday, October 5, focusing on “Ethnic and Religious Minorities.” Click here to learn more and register.

Written by Amy Graham, Communications Specialist