DISCUSSION PROGRAM

PREFACE                                                    

 The Agenda material used in the Bishop's Committee Discussion program is written by a committee composed of members who volunteer their time, talents, and experience. 

The purpose of this material is to stimulate group discussion. It is not designed to teach or present factual information; nor does it necessarily represent the philosophy, attitudes or beliefs of the Discussion Program's administration or Agenda Committee. Each topic is, in essence, one point of view on the subject. The material should be regarded as an additional contributing member of each discussion group.

 PURPOSE AND PHILOSOPHY

 The Bishop's Committee Discussion Program was established in the Diocese of Buffalo to encourage personal growth through self awareness. The Program was designed to meet individual needs, to be flexible, and to change with the times. There should be a sharing and open atmosphere in the small group where ideas can be freely expressed. Members should be able to look forward to productive discussion and not be burdened by the "extra chores" that many other organizations demand.

 In order to assure this design, the Bishop's Committee Discussion Program has only three rules.

 1. Group members must use the agenda material provided by the Program for the specified month and year

 2. Group members must be led by a leader trained by the Discussion Program.

 3. Group members should not be expected to be involved in any in fund-raising of any kind, nor shall any money, other than the cost of the agenda booklet, be required

It is the belief of the Bishop's Committee Discussion Program that an increased knowledge of self and others can be gained in the small group. The resulting self-confidence and Christian maturity will enable members to meet the challenges of today’s world, and be sources of growth to all they meet.

 This seeking together in the group experience can be the realization of Christian community.

  A Bishop's Committee Discussion Program group is a learning body without a teacher.

It is a gathering of peers who are each willing to give to the group: knowledge, opinions, feelings, life experiences, in an openhearted, honest way.

The contributions from each individual become growth material for everyone in the group .

Our purpose is to share ideas and ideals and to enrich ourselves .

 When you join a group, you make a commitment to attend each monthly meeting. Reading your agenda prior to the meeting is essential, because it gives the opportunity to think over the material, and gather thoughts to share with other members. 

Confidentialitv-is necessary to develop openness and trust among the members. When members can count on honesty, trust,respect, and confidentiality from each other, they become relaxed about sharing their thoughts.

 The discussion material was written by members who have had or are having, very much the same experiences you are having in daily living. Whether you agree or disagree with the material, the ideas and thoughts in the agenda are meant to stimulate discussion.

The success of a group depends on its members. The leader is there to guide the discussion, not to teach or lecture. 

We are not seeking to solve every problem, but rather, to stimulate growth.

  For further information please contact:  Karen Gould - 839-3374