Belittle. Reject. Blame. Attack. Win at all costs. These seem to the dominant values we see today. As red and blue yard signs spring up all over our yards and neighborhoods, maybe we can provide something else. What if we were kind, compassionate, humble, respectful, and loving? Never mind winning an election, could that change the world?

Is it possible that the values of Christ transcend our political posturing and partisanship? Can we come together to find common ground, shared values, and build community based on kindness? We can disagree with people and still respect them, see their humanity, and try to understand their story.

If you believe that there is another way, then consider joining this movement. “Do Unto Others,” is not just a pithy statement. It is a part of the foundation of the Gospel that includes loving your neighbor, loving yourself, doing justice, loving kindness, and walking humbly.

“Skills for Disagreeing Better” is a workshop being offered at Port Byron First UMC on October 26, from 9:00-11:00 a.m. This workshop is led by Braver Angels, a national non-profit organization dedicated to de-polarizing our country for the sake of democracy. LEARN MORE

The National Movement

This is about more than Two Rivers Church. The Campaign for Kindness started in Kansas City, Missouri, and is spreading across the nation as more and more people search for ways to reach across political divides.

  • In Bloomington/Normal, several churches came together for a Rally for Kindness that saw several politicians from both sides of the aisle attend. READ MORE HERE
  • Campaign for Kindness is a national movement. There are ways that individuals, organizations, churches, and others can be a part of it, even if you never come to Two Rivers Church. READ MORE HERE.
  • FIND RESOURCES HERE. Scroll down for study guides, printable handouts, social media messages, and more.
  • Scholars and others are concerned about the growing political polarization in our country. Watch this engaging video by John Schreiber, PhD, about what happens in our brains when we add politics. The polarization is scary, but his research has also found hope. WATCH IT HERE.

How can I get involved?

  • Order a 18×24 yard sign by calling 309-788-9384
  • Gather with other like-minded folks who are dedicated to kindness, including worship at 9:30 on Sundays.
  • Reach out to a family member or friend with whom you disagree. Write a note, card, or letter expressing yourself, but also expressing a desire to remain in relationship.
  • Read Healing the Heart of Democracy, by Park Palmer.
  • Serve others at our Saturday Community Meal. Every Saturday, we serve around 60 people a hot lunch at 12:00 p.m. It takes a group of kind people to welcome and encourage this community.
  • Drop off items in our Little Free Pantry. In our north parking lot, there is a Little Free Pantry (and there are several others around the Quad Cities, including St. John’s Lutheran Church in Rock Island). A