Brews and Bias is a faith-rooted dialogue initiative designed to help congregations confront and unlearn racial bias while building beloved community. Drawing on scripture, Lutheran theology, and contemporary cultural wisdom, the program creates intimate, joy-centered spaces for lay leaders and participants to engage in courageous conversation.
At its heart, Brews and Bias equips ordinary disciples to lead conversations about justice, equity, and reconciliation—over something as simple as a brew. Whether coffee, tea, or another beverage, the ritual of gathering becomes a doorway into transformation.
Brews and Bias is not just another program—it is an invitation into the sacred work of building beloved community, one cup and one conversation at a time. In these ambiguous times we have the opportunity to work together, equipping disciples to lead with courage, joy, and faith in the gospel’s liberating power. This training is intended for congregational leaders to be prepared to lead a series of Brews and Bias conversations in their own congregations and communities.
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Program Model & Goals
Part 1: Online Foundations (4 Hours Across 4 Sessions)
Theological grounding: scripture, justice, and MLK’s vision of Beloved Community
Understanding bias: implicit, systemic, and cultural
Program orientation: session flow and facilitation basics
Interactive components: scenario practice, journaling, and online community engagement
Part 2: In-Person Activation (4 Hours) Location: TBD
Facilitation skills: trauma-informed leadership, active listening, managing conflict
Mini-session experience: modeling a condensed Brews and Bias gathering
Launch planning: practical guidance on hosting groups
Commissioning: blessing and sending leaders into this work
Please note: there are four recorded sessions that each participant will need to complete by November 15th. This information will be emailed to each registered participant.
Scholarships are available for those that may need assistance. Please contact Rev. Afi Dobbins-Mays to learn more.
Equip Leaders with Theological and Practical Tools
Ground leaders in biblical commitments to justice and equity
Provide frameworks for recognizing and addressing racial bias
Train facilitators to lead trauma-informed, joy-centered discussions
Foster Courageous and Compassionate Dialogue
Create brave spaces for naming, exploring, and unlearning bias
Normalize discomfort as part of spiritual maturity and growth
Cultivate vulnerability, curiosity, and mutual respect
Integrate Faith, Media, and Cultural Wisdom
Use scripture, media clips, and real-world examples to illuminate bias
Connect biblical teaching with lived experiences of race and identity
Encourage reflection through journaling and dialogue
Build Micro-Communities of Reflection and Action
Train facilitators to host sessions in homes, cafés, and community spaces
Encourage ripple effects of accountability in congregations
Model the early church’s house-to-house gathering spirit (Acts 2)
Center Joy, Liberation, and Beloved Community
Reframe racial justice as communal work
Celebrate cultural resilience and spiritual depth
Anchor every gathering in prayer and affirmation
