Let us then pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding." - Romans 14:19

A collection of mental health, spiritual and pastoral resources for addressing communications and conflict.

In the current polarized political and social climate, people often find themselves exhausted, angry or frustrated for various reasons. Often, people struggle to find ways to bridge the divides when conversations break down between family and friends, or between members of the same community, or even the same church. In a time like this, we rely on the resources of the mind, spirit and heart to respond in healthy ways. We find ourselves needing to hone crucial communication and conflict management skills. As those who minister in the life of the Church, these feelings and the divisions we experience are part of that ministry, and the practices and skills that can help promote healthy pathways through broken-down relationships and painful interactions are crucial.

On this page is gathered resources from across SLIconnect that can be fruitful for personal enrichment, group discussion, and practical pastoral application. Some are free and some are modest cost. We hope providing access to them will help build the "bridge to better" which our churches, communities and societies need.

Webinars are available for direct purchase. Prior direct purchasers and continuing education personal or group subscribers have access as part of their prior purchases / subscriptions. (Login required.)

Special Offer for our Direct Purchase Users

Purchase the 7 webinars in the collection together, get 2 free.

To take advantage of this offer, please be sure to place all the relevant webinars into your shopping cart for one purchase. Discounts will be applied automatically in the total amount at the bottom of the shopping cart screen. Offer good through November 5, 2024.

Online Seminar Resources


Spirituality of Conflict Management (2015)

Ann Garrido, D.Min., offers strategies for managing conflict in a way that bears witness to our deepest Christian beliefs.


Healthy Anger: Skills for Communication & Confrontation (2017)

Taryn Millar, Psy.D., explores constructive expressions of anger and identifies healthy ways to manage this challenging emotion.


Surviving the Digital Age: Strategies for Healthy Technology Use (2018)

Crystal Taylor-Dietz, Psy.D., offers strategies for managing technology use effectively.


Conflict Resolution (2019)

Emily Cash, Psy.D. considers the principles of good communication in a conflict situation and helps us discover strategies for effectively managing and resolving conflict.


Defusing Conflict: Strategies for De-escalation (2019)

Emily R. Cash, Psy.D., offers practical strategies for de-escalating conflict in a ministry setting.


Bridging the Divide: Communication Strategies (2022)

Stephen Carroll, Ph.D., LCPC, offers strategies for creating a safe, respectful environment for differing perspectives.


Contributing to a Depolarized World (2023)

Br. John Mark Falkenhain, OSB, Ph.D., offers strategies for decreasing polarization and building community.

Additional Free Articles


Navigating Differences with Grace

Tasha Dorsey, Psy.D. provides guidance on how to decide within yourself what you would like to happen with your relationship with a person with whom you have a disagreement.

Strategies for De-escalating Conflict

In this article, learn de-escalation approaches to help ensure an immediate conflict does not spiral out of control.

When Listening Matters Most

Stephen Carroll, Ph.D., LCPC notes that in times of unprecedented levels of stress, it can be difficult to know the right thing to say. There are, however, proven ways to listen so that others feel heard.

Manage the Moment: Strategies for
De-escalation

Stephen Carroll, Ph.D., LCPC offers six specific strategies.