Ursuline Center to host 3 programs on racism

Staff report

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“Racism – Moving Past Exclusion and Fear to Inclusion and Compassion” is the theme of a three-part program planned by the Ursuline Sisters of Youngstown.

Sessions are scheduled from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Thursdays at the Ursuline Center, 4280 Shields Road.

The sessions are part of the Year of Encounter with Pope Francis.

March 3: “Reducing Violence, Tolerance and Respect” is the theme. The Rev. Ed Noga, pastor of St. Patrick Church in Youngstown, will be facilitator. Guy Burney, coordinator of Community Initiative to Reduce Violence in Youngstown, will speak. He works to prevent homicides and gang violence through intervention and mentoring. He also provides resources and support for the Women of Worth Program and the Hope Conference.

March 10: “Honest Dialogue, Greater Trust and Mutual Respect” is the theme. Facilitator will be the Rev. Bob Bonnot, pastor of Christ Our Savior Parish in Struthers. Presenters will be the Rev. Dr. Robin Woodberry, director of Mahoning Valley Association of Churches and assistant pastor of New Bethel Baptist Church in Youngstown, and other spiritual and community leaders. The presenters will help us recognize how each of us can build bridges to more wholistic communities in which all are treated all with respect and dignity.

March 31: “Generational Poverty, A Call to Compassion” is the theme. Sister Patricia McNicholas, senior development officer at Beatitude House, will address how Christians respond to the common cultural myths about people in poverty. She will present insights and information to help participants understand the impact generational poverty has on families. This session also will be offered from 10 to 11:30 a.m.

Registration is appreciated. Call 330-799-4941 or visit www.theursulinecenter.org.

A donation of $5 is payable at the door.