Conversation expanded

Saint Philip’s Anti-Racism Discussion Group will resume its Zoom meetings at 1:00pm this Sunday, September 11. The focus this program year will be “closer to home” with personal perspectives on the southern border. Newcomers are welcome.

The group will begin the new program year by discussing The Distance Between Us: A Memoir by Reyna Grande. This book “describes her childhood torn between the United States and Mexico, and shines a light on the experiences, fears, and hopes of those who choose to make the harrowing journey across the border.”

The group’s facilitators are in conversation with parishioners from Iglesia Santa Maria Virgen in Hermosillo, Mexico. They have been invited to join Saint Philip’s study group, and to share their experiences about “el otro lado”—the other side. Do they dream of coming to the United States? Why or why not? What are their expectations, impressions, etc.? The parishioners have received copies of the book (printed in Spanish) and facilitators hope they will join Saint Philip’s discussion group once a month.

Another welcome development is that San Marcos Episcopal Church in Mesa will also join the discussion. That parish’s clergy and parishioners will dialogue with the group and help participants further understand immigration issues. Fr Henry has also invited members of St. Michael's Church in Coolidge, where he preaches and celebrates monthly, to join the discussion this year.

Registration is required to receive the Zoom link for the Anti-Racism Discussion Group meetings. If you are not already registered please click here.

If you would like to learn more about this discussion group, contact any of the three facilitators:

The Rev’d Henry Hoffman, henryjhoffman@gmail.com
Shirin McArthur, shirin@shirinmcarthur.com
Dcn Leah Sandwell-Weiss, lsandwellweiss@gmail.com