Bilingual Conversation: Share, Listen, Love.

Christ Church Cathedral is a multicultural and multilingual community, and Bilingual Conversation celebrates our rich heritages through bilingual conversation and fellowship. There is a place for anyone wanting to widen the circle of God’s embrace through languages and cultures.

 

What does a typical session look like?

Each session begins with a bilingual group activity followed by small group conversation in English and Spanish.

 

Do I need to be fluent?

Not at all! The participants of this vibrant learning community are a variety of language levels. Some know only a few basic phrases, and others are fluent. All are welcome! Do you want to speak only English and help a non-native friend practice conversations in English? Do you want to have fully-bilingual conversations, so you can brush up on your Spanish and also help friends practice English?You can participate in any way you choose.

 

What do I bring?

The most important thing you can bring with you is an open and caring attitude. Speaking in a second language can be a scary experience, and we want participants who are patient, kind, encouraging, curious, and willing to share and listen. Sometimes we will ask you to bring things from home to help you tell your stories.

 

How often will this ministry meet?

We will meet six times on Wednesday evenings, 6:30-8:00 p.m. The dates are May 17, May 24, May 31, June 7, June 14, June 21, and June 28, 2017. We will also organize additional community events that you and your friends/family are welcome to attend.

 

What will we talk about?

Each session has a central topic, and we encourage partners to have conversations about that topic. You may find yourself in a deep conversation that takes you in another direction. That’s OK! The purpose of this ministry is to share more about ourselves and our cultures in a new language. You and your small group can use your time at Bilingual Conversation as you wish.

 

What if I don’t know the right words?

There is a point in any conversation (even in our native languages) when we can’t find the right words to express ourselves. How do we communicate? We use body language, demonstrate (act), draw pictures, and use the words we do know to describe what we mean. You can do the same thing in a second language.

 

Will I have homework?

No. This is not a language class with one teacher and assignments. This is a community sharing its languages and cultures through conversation and fellowship. This is a great way to grow in relationship with others while improving your conversational skills in a second language.

 

May I bring my children?

Yes! Children and youth are welcome as long as they can play or study independently and do not frequently interrupt their parents. Children will have a designated area to play in within view of their parents.

 

Where are these conversations held?

Conversations take place in the basement of Christ Church Cathedral, the little church on the circle in downtown Indianapolis. Please walk down the exterior stairwell, enter the door, turn left, walk down the hallway to your left, and enter a large room with lots of tables (the Parish Hall), where you will be welcomed warmly by others excited to get to know you.

 

Where do I park?

Free parking is available at the Express Park Garage, 20 North Pennsylvania Street. When you enter Express Park Garage, take a ticket and bring it with you. We’ll make sure that your ticket is validated before you leave.

 

Can I take a bus to Christ Church Cathedral?

Yes! The Cathedral is located on the northeast corner of Monument Circle, only three blocks from the Transit Center. To plan your trip, please click here.

 

What are the conversation topics?

We’ll decide the topics as a group during our first session on May 17th. Come with ideas of what you’d like to learn more about!