A one-day conference scheduled by the Voyagers.
Wednesday, November 5, 2025; 9:00-3:30
St. Michael’s Episcopal Church. 4701 Erie St. Racine, WI. 53402
In a cultural context that is deeply divided and increasingly reactive, preaching is challenging. The cornerstone concept of Bowen theory, “differentiation of self” describes the capacity to maintain a ‘self’ while in relationship. It also describes the role anxiety plays in making that difficult.
You are invited to join the Voyagers in a day of sharing, thinking and learning as we consider Bowen’s concept of differentiation of self and preaching in our time and location. The day will begin with a “Bowen Theory Brush-Up.”
The Voyagers is a multi-denominational group of clergy and faith leaders who have been meeting for over 20 years to discuss Bowen theory, the application of the theory to congregations and leadership by Rabbi Edwin Friedman and others, and to work on our own differentiation of self.
The following questions will shape discussion:
- What is it like for you as a preacher right now? What challenges are you facing?
- How do you see the larger situation of the church and state in the US?
- What is your thinking about the role of the church in society?
- What is your thinking about the role of the pastor in the church?
- What does faithfulness look like in this context?
- What does differentiating a self look like in the midst of these challenges?
Following lunch (included in the cost), we will review the responses of Bishop Mariann Budde, the Bishop of the Episcopal Diocese of Washington, during her interactions with President Trump: first at Lafayette Square (2022) and at the Inaugural Prayer Service. This will be followed by Zoom meeting with the Bishop. She was a student of Rabbi Edwin Friedman. Her efforts at differentiating a self are obvious.
The day will finish by 3:30 p.m.
The cost of the day is $50, which includes lunch. Please register here.
You have the option of sending a check or bringing it to the event. However, in order to be included in the lunch order, you must register before November 1. Thank you.