In July I reflected on the political climate in the United States as we move toward election day.  The most important thing for me at the time I wrote that article is still the most important thing for me — which is considering how we handle tense political seasons and the impact that has on the children in our homes, congregations and communities. While many of our readers reside in the U.S., there are also a significant number who don’t. Today I’m thinking about the things I’m learning, the conversations I’m having and the resources I’m learning about that might help Anabaptists in any context where politics are causing friction.

Full disclosure: The resources/learnings listed below would never have happened without the leadership of Brenda, the amazing leader of several women’s groups at Hope Mennonite Church in Wichita, Kan. Brenda spends countless hours finding the right resources that will challenge our assumptions, encourage our spiritual growth and form us into more faithful disciples of Christ. She is attentive to the Spirit’s movement and helps us learn how to integrate our faith and life more fully.  These resources were all either introduced to me by Brenda or because of her prompting. 

1. Jesus Takes a Side: Embracing the political demands of the gospel by Jonny Rashid

I was first introduced to Rashid’s writing as one of Anabaptist World’s regular columnists. His passionate writing prompts reflection and has led to rich discussion. At least in the library where I work, Jesus Takes a Side is an overlooked title from Herald Press. Written two years ago (though it feels like it could’ve been yesterday), Rashid makes a strong argument for us to see that politics means so much more than political parties and that Jesus was, in fact, political. Jesus did  take a side — the side of the oppressed. Why does that matter? What does that mean today? This is an excellent text to explore these important questions.

2.  The Dignity Index 

A team of professionals in a variety of scientific and political fields has worked together since 2021 to develop the Dignity Index, which is an eight-point scale for measuring our attitudes and speech on a continuum from contempt to dignity.  It matters how we approach and communicate with those with whom we disagree. The Dignity Index website states: “Our disagreements aren’t causing the divisions in our country; it’s what we do when we disagree. Do we treat the other side with dignity, or do we treat them with contempt? The first brings us together; the second drives us apart.” There are some fantastic additional resources on the site as well organized in groups for a general audience, community or other leaders, individuals and families, employers and employees and additional reading.

3. An interview with Diana Butler Bass

Recorded last summer, this hour-long conversation with Timothy Shriver, president of Special Olympics, introduces the Dignity Index and offers plenty of food for thought. His insights on dignity are important, insightful and challenging. And relevant.

4. Leap of Faith 

Several articles published recently by Anabaptist World and Sojourners share about this new documentary in which 12 pastors take a leap of faith by committing to explore together whether friendship and shared faith could prove stronger than polarization. It is currently playing in select large cities, and you can request it in your area on the website.

5. The Colossian Forum

The Colossian Forum boldly proclaims on its website landing page that “differences don’t have to divide” and that “conflict can strengthen our connection to each other.” I think the conviction with which the Colossian Forum approaches its work can offer, in itself, some hope to those weary of conflict and to those who try to avoid it altogether. They offer so many faith-based resources for families, individuals and leaders. Check out the options from speakers and workshops, online courses, small group materials and even a podcast on practicing hope.