About Dialogue for Peaceful Change

Since 2022, the presbyteries of Baltimore, National Capital, and New Castle have partnered to train more than 90 pastors and church leaders in the Dialogue for Peaceful Change (DPC) methodology.

DPC was developed in response to sectarian divisions in Northern Ireland, drawing primarily on the experiences of the Corrymeela Community, Northern Ireland’s oldest and largest peace and reconciliation organization.

Grounded in deep empathy and an understanding of human behavior, the DPC approach helps us understand why change processes may fail and what we need for them to succeed.

 

Eligibility and Training Goals

Any active leader or member of the three presbyteries—not only pastors and elders—is eligible for DPC Facilitator training. The training aims to equip facilitators to navigate complex conflicts and foster peaceful change by helping them:

• Deepen their understanding of conflict and personal and cultural responses to it.
• Identify key issues and dynamics that prevent progress in resolving conflicts.
• Develop skills to work through conflict toward a healthy future.

 

January 2027 Training: Schedule and Registration

The January 2027 training is offered in two parts. You may register for Part 1 alone or for Parts 1 and 2 together.

• Part 1: January 15–16, 2027
  Friday and Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
  Understanding Conflict & Change and Mediative & Empathic Dialogue
  Registration for Part 1 (two days): $250.
• Part 2: January 17–18, 2027
  Sunday, 2–6 p.m., and Monday, 9 a.m.–2 p.m.
  Skills for Mediative Communication & Mediation Exercises
  Registration for Parts 1 and 2 combined (four days): $300.
• Registration opens in November.
• Training location and Hotel registration information will be posted here when available.
• We will be in the western/northern area just outside of Baltimore.

The schedule invites participants to connect this practice with an ongoing commitment to the ministry and work of dismantling systems of oppression, honoring the teachings of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King and others. Please consider this context as you plan your Sunday. Contact Rev. Tara Spuhler McCabe with any questions or if you want to understand the options for 2-day vs. 4-day training.