Building bridges amid disagreement

Recently I was asked a thought-provoking question, “How can someone
who is set in their convictions build a bridge with those they disagree
with?”

This question is an important one to dwell on. As the Presbyterian
Church (U.S.A) enters 2012, we watch as the threat of schism jeopardizes
our unity as a community of faith, together, proclaiming the Gospel.
Yet, unity is a part of our ordination vows.  It’s part of our shared
statements of faith and it is evident in our charge to be Christ’s hands
and feet in the world. Building bridges is an important part of talking
with each other and sustaining our unity.

I recognize that I am firmly planted on “one side of the bridge,”
with convictions that some disagree with. Yet, for thirty years I’ve
also concentrated on being in dialogue and collegial fellowship with
those who disagree with me.  In that dialogue I often encounter an
assumption that the purpose of my reaching out to those who disagree
with me is to tip the bridge between us so that all the people on the
other side eventually slide towards me. And many point to the middle as
the most likely place from which to build a bridge reaching both sides.