Want to Talk? Communication Tools for Divided Times

With Bryan Johns, CSJP-A and Nancy Schmitt, CSJP-A

September 29, 2026

Date and Time Details: Tuesdays, from Sep 29 to Nov 24 | 10:00am - 12noon | In Person

Location: Peace & Spirituality Center

Address: 1663 Killarney Way, Bellevue, WA, USA

Contact: peace@csjp-olp.org
425-635-3603

Whether you find yourself navigating a heated disagreement with a spouse, interrupting racism in the office, facilitating political tension in your religious institution, or working for systemic change around any justice issue, Want to Talk? Communication Tools for Divided Times will guide you in deepening your relationships while staying true to your values. This 9-session weekly program, developed by JustFaith Ministries and facilitated by members of the CSJP Associate Team, draws upon the wisdom of experts in nonviolent communication, civil dialogue, and grassroots organizing, providing practical tools for navigating the political polarization of our time, as well as tough conversations with our loved ones.

This program is not based on any one specific religion or denomination. It is designed for a more broadly spiritual audience. Those who are unaffiliated with a religious tradition, or who identify as “spiritual but not religious” will find the program content relevant and meaningful. This version of the program may also resonate with an interfaith audience. Meditative practices at the beginning and end of each session provide a spiritual foundation for the program. These practices draw from Hindu and Buddhist practices of mindfulness but do not arise from any one particular religious tradition.

As part of our Disarming Our Hearts: Becoming Peace series this program invites participants to explore how authentic communication can become a pathway to peace. By learning to listen deeply, speak truthfully, and engage across differences with compassion, we continue the journey of disarming our hearts — one conversation at a time.

About the Leaders

Bryan Johns, CSJP-A

Bryan Johns, CSJP-A has been an Associate of the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Peace since 2014. He has participated in multiple JustFaith programs and has served as a facilitator for both the Immigration and Racial Healing modules. Bryan looks forward to walking alongside participants as we explore how to remain open […]

Learn more about Bryan Johns, CSJP-A

Nancy Schmitt, CSJP-A

Nancy Schmitt is a wife, mother, grandmother, CSJP Associate, and a contemplative practitioner. Drawing from her many years of service on parish staff, her experience as a spiritual director, and the daily trials and triumphs of family life in this present age, she is a passionate advocate for building bridges of peace. Through active contemplation […]

Learn more about Nancy Schmitt, CSJP-A

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