SCORR 2009 Workshops

Saturday, February 28, 2009     10:30 – 12:00 pm

Biblical Foundations for Understanding Racial Reconciliation

Although topics such as diversity, justice and reconciliation are truths that are found throughout the Bible, many Christians today would struggle to articulate a theology of reconciliation. These are unfortunately neglected topics in Bible studies and sermons in the Evangelical community today. Come take a journey through both the Old and New Testament for a foundational workshop on how diversity and reconciliation finds its basis in the pages of Scripture.
Chris Rattay    Business 103

Film Session: In Search of Shalom- White People In Reconciliation

What role do white people in America play in racial reconciliation? A question many struggle with. This film seeks to address some of the many issues related to white people and the process of diversity and equality in our society. The documentary film In Search of Shalom will seek to address issues such as defining white culture, addressing white privilege and institutional racism. The film will also give voice to white people who have embraced reconciliation as a lifelong journey and their process as they seek to participate in building God’s Kingdom on earth. Come prepared to participate in thought provoking discussion.
Tabitha Verdick    Business 220

Hard Lessons to Learn: Dealing with Racial Incidents on a Christian College/University Campus

This session will discuss the experiences two campuses faced that threatened the progress that was being made in bringing about change in the area of diversity.  The presenters will share the unique challenges that are faced in such instances as leaders of color charged with being a voice for students of color during times of crises and institutional leaders. They will also share the impact that such cases have on students and what is necessary to be student leaders of color at predominantly white Christian institutions when incidents of race based bias occurs.
Joel Perez & Joe Snell        Business 105

"MIA: Missing in Administration"   Asian Pacific Islander Americans and the Bamboo Ceiling

APIA's are the fastest growing ethnic minority group in the U.S., as well as on college campuses, yet we have the largest lack of representation in the administrative ranks. This "great contradiction" will be addressed as we examine issues that face students, and especially staff, faculty and administrators.
Henry Gee        Business 102

Where the Rubber Meets the Road: Living out Reconciliation in Every Context of Life

Reconciliation is a biblical mandate and a firm aspect of the Kingdom of God. As we ponder the challenges of how do we then live, what are the specific ways in which reconciliation can be reflected in our daily lives? In this session we will explore the many ways in which reconciliation can be manifest in a variety of life settings. Our family, community, church, and place of employment can all be a context where we can see reconciliation practiced as a lifestyle. Come prepared to engage and learn from one another.
Rudy Carrasco        Business 201

Saturday, February 28, 2009    1:30-3:00 pm

Our Place at the Table: Being White in a Multi-Ethnic World

In an increasingly global society, America is faced with the challenge of true integration as ethnically diverse populations increase. However, misunderstanding, fear, apathy, and rejection have plagued the "majority" group -- white Americans. Do white Americans have a cultural heritage? What is this so-called "white privilege?" How can the ethnic community accept the efforts of those who try to reach out? Working through these issues is difficult -- it is painful to discover how years of past and continuing social injustice can destroy relationships of our generation. This open discussion, for students of all ethnic backgrounds, seeks to promote responsibility within the Body of Christ to face our fears and promote change as a unified, loving community.
Chris Rattay     Business 105

Film Session: Standing in the Gap- Student Voices in Reconciliation

In the midst of daily discussions surrounding diversity in Christian Higher Education, students can often be a neglected perspective as a source of wisdom and insight. The documentary film, Standing in the Gap gives voice to students in a Christian college/university setting and the crucial role they seek to play in the process of justice, advocacy and reconciliation. Through a series of classroom and small group discussions, students discuss their struggles and growth as they confront the difficulty realities they face daily.  Their voices ultimately challenge us to move toward the ministry of reconciliation and building the Kingdom of God as the ultimate goal of Christian Higher Education. Discussion will follow the viewing of the film.
Luis Reyna    Business 220

Race, Gender, Faith and Politics in the 2008 Elections

The 2008 Presidential election was a historic election in many aspects. Despite this historic event, many who attend and work at Christian colleges/universities found themselves in the midst of a quandary of responses that ranged from elation to outright disparaging remarks. This session will feature a panel of speakers discussing how underlying racial, gender, and religious dynamics in America were revealed in the historic and fascinating presidential election of 2008. Panelists will briefly discuss from their perspective the implications of these dynamics followed by an open dialog with session participants.
Panel: Brad Christerson, Omedi Ochieng, Caryn Reeder, Elena Yee     Business 103

A Theology of Suffering

In our Western World we are very much committed to our comfort. But are we the salt and light in this world where suffering is so evident? How do we understand suffering in our world? How do we engage in cross-cultural ministry without being reduced to paternalism? This session will attempt to address these issues. By examining the framework of suffering and celebration, we will explore a theology relevant to cross-cultural ministry. Come prepared to be challenged and to engage.
Soong-Chan Rah    Business 102

An Exploration of African Dance Form

This workshop provides a short survey of African dance and it's adaptations (Haitian, Caribbean and South American influences).  Participants will learn isolation and full body motion patterns that will then be combined to construct a short dance. A discussion on the derivation of movements and their meanings will be included as part of the exercise. Wear comfortable clothing and come prepared to learn and move in ways that are new and sometimes uncomfortable. Come prepared to learn and explore.
Linda Kazibwe    Sutherland Auditorium Stage