Introducing Kenotic Conversation and Assessing its Impact Among Cantonese and English Generations in Markham Chinese Presbyterian Church, Toronto, Canada

Abstract

This study demonstrated how Kenotic Conversation (KC) could improve the trust relationships between the leaders from an older Cantonese generation and members of a younger English generation at the Markham Chinese Presbyterian Church (MCPC). The project was action research using a qualitative phenomenological approach. A structured, mutual, and in-person conversation program was designed and introduced to the participants as a tool to practice Kenotic Conversation for six sessions within a period of three months. Qualitative data were collected from interviews and responses written by six participants - three elders from the Cantonese generation and three members from the English generation. Based on the data collected, three qualities of the Kenotic Conversation were found in improving trust relationships among participants: openness in communication, seeking for common ground in resolving conflict, and providing support for empowering the next generation. Results of this project were two-fold: first the participants indicated a perspective change in improving their understanding, relationship and trust and second the participants demonstrated behavioural change toward partnership in ministerial work.