The Conversation Matters, Second Edition

""In a time when polarization overshadows faithful dialogue, The Conversation Matters offers the church a timely and hope-filled reminder that how we speak with one another is as important as what we say. With wisdom and grace, Knight and Saliers recover the Wesleyan practice of Christian conferencing as a means of grace. Their call to Jesus-followers to practice civility as a spiritual discipline will strengthen the church's witness, undergird our baptismal promises, and remind us that faithful conversation is itself an act of discipleship."" --Lanette Plambeck, Resident Bishop, Dakotas-Minnesota Episcopal Area, The United Methodist Church ""Knight and Saliers's expanded edition, situated in their Methodist context and Wesleyan tradition, offers a wealth of wisdom, insights, and practical advice to other Christian ecclesial bodies in this era of polarization. Reading these chapters, this Roman Catholic, for example, could readily perceive their resourcefulness for advancing conversational, listening-based 'synodality' in all dimensions of church life. Such is Pope Leo's stated expectation, including 'an ever stronger synodality in ecumenical relations.'"" --Bruce T. Morrill, SJ, author of Practical Sacramental Theology ""I read the first edition of this book not long after it appeared in 1999 and heartily recommend this updated work. The additional two chapters, as the whole book does, combine clear instruction and gentle admonition. The writing is clear, and the tone is simultaneously prophetic and full of Christ's love. Reading it is like sitting down with two wise friends who know exactly what we need to hear and have the courage to say it."" --Stephen W. Rankin, Director, Spiritual Maturity Project