Handling conflict well 

The Blackley Centre has announced the return of its Paths of Peace: Handling Conflict Well training course. This training is designed to equip participants with the essential tools needed to navigate and transform conflict, whether within a church environment or in the wider world.

Baptist minister and mediation trainer Joanna Williams shares why this training is more vital than ever

When relationships reach breaking point

What is the best approach when tensions rise within your faith community? Many of us want to step in and help, yet we often hesitate, fearing that saying the wrong thing might only fuel the fire.

When disagreements escalate, mediation offers a proven, structured way forward. By introducing a neutral third party to facilitate honest dialogue, mediation helps participants move past stalemates and toward genuine resolution. The Blackley Centre’s course, based in the heart of Yorkshire, is specifically crafted to bridge these gaps.
 

“A high point was learning about the mediation process – it feels like a way to deal with conflict.” (Past participant)

Skills for life and reconciliation

At the core of the curriculum is the practice of deep, respectful listening. This isn't just about hearing words; it’s about building the kind of understanding that leads to reconciliation and new life.
 

“Changed all my listening practice and gave me new skills for helping people in conflict.” (Past participant)

The course guides you through a clear, five-stage mediation process. While we focus heavily on the nuances of church dynamics, these skills are universal. Whether in a formal leadership role or an informal supportive capacity, the techniques you learn here are applicable wherever human conflict exists.


What you will discover

The program balances theory with hands-on practice, covering:

Conflict Theory: Understanding why church conflicts happen, how they escalate, and how to spot opportunities for growth.

Stressful Communication: Learning how to maintain clarity and empathy during "storm conditions" to minimise misunderstandings.

Restorative tools: Developing peace-making skills that work in both professional and personal settings.

 

---

 Participants during a previous Paths of Peace course, led by Joanna Williams (left)

---

Who is it for

This course is an excellent resource for ministers seeking Continuing Ministerial Development (CMD), as well as church leaders, elders, deacons, and any congregation members who want to be active agents of peace.

The course runs on five consecutive Fridays, offering a mixture of in-house and online teaching:

• Day 1 and Day 5: Onsite sessions at the Blackley Centre.
• Mid-course: Three interactive morning sessions via Zoom, supplemented by webinars. 

Here is what some of our previous participants had to say:

• “Excellent, insightful teaching and practice sessions”
• “Very well presented and organised, inspired me in a new area.”
• “I’ve found it hugely insightful from a personal perspective, from a wider learning perspective and building a new network.”
• “Very engaging and inspiring. Gave me enthusiasm as well as confidence in my skills.” 
   

The course runs over 5 Fridays between 24 April and 22 May. For more details and to book visit: blackleycentre.co.uk/handling-conflict-well-course or email office@blackleycentre.co.uk

 

Joanna Williams is a Baptist minister with more than 25 years’ experience of devising, and delivering high quality training in and for churches, colleges, and other organisations.

She is an experienced Trainer/Training Partner for Bridge Builders Ministries, delivering the Mediating Interpersonal Conflicts Course (15+yrs).

Joanna is a joint director of the Blackley Centre alongside husband and fellow Baptist minister Andy. The Centre offers a developing range of events, services and training for peace making.