In this engaging discussion, Adam Broderick, a former elders quorum president with a PhD in Chemical Engineering, shares his insights on revitalizing quorum meetings post-COVID. He emphasizes fostering personal connections and creating safe spaces for open dialogue. Adam highlights the importance of starting meetings with personal check-ins and establishing trust, allowing members to feel valued. He also discusses the use of anonymous feedback in meetings to encourage vulnerability, ultimately enhancing community ties and spiritual growth.
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insights INSIGHT
Meaningful Gospel Instruction
Meaningful gospel instruction requires moving beyond idealized lessons to real conversations.
Acknowledge the different ways men engage with lessons and create space for vulnerability.
question_answer ANECDOTE
Vulnerability in Giving Blessings
Adam Broderick shared how he admitted his fear of giving blessings, especially in public.
This vulnerability led to a powerful quorum discussion about overcoming fears and supporting each other.
volunteer_activism ADVICE
Start with Casual Conversation
Create safety in Elders Quorum by starting meetings with casual conversations about life.
This helps build connections before diving into gospel discussions.
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In 'The Art of Gathering', Priya Parker argues that many gatherings are lackluster and unproductive, but they don't have to be. Drawing on her expertise as a facilitator of various types of gatherings, Parker offers a human-centered approach to create meaningful experiences. She explores a wide array of gatherings, including conferences, meetings, and social events, and provides practical advice on how simple changes can invigorate any group experience. The book emphasizes the importance of knowing the purpose of a gathering, selecting the right venue, and ensuring the event is unique and effective for all attendees.
Adam Broderick served a mission in Kyiv, Ukraine. He went on to earn a PhD in Chemical Engineering, and is a devoted husband and father of four. Adam was recently released as an elders quorum president, has previously served as a counselor in the bishopric, ward mission leader, and stake Young Men counselor, and has just been called as stake Sunday School president. Adam enjoys outdoor adventures like peak bagging, rock climbing, backpacking, ice climbing, and canyoneering. A runner and cyclist, he also enjoys playing the piano.
Links
The Art of Gathering, by Priya Parker
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Highlights
Adam reflects on his three years as elders quorum president, recalling the initial challenge of revitalizing a stagnant quorum after the pandemic. His quorum includes a diverse mix of young adults and seniors, which made fostering meaningful connections essential. To lead effectively, Adam prioritized creating a safe space for open discussions, believing connection must come before impactful gospel instruction. He shares practical strategies, such as beginning meetings with personal check-ins and setting ground rules to encourage trust and honesty. These efforts helped members feel heard and valued.
The discussion shifts to ministering, where Adam stresses the importance of building personal connections during interviews. Instead of administrative check-ins, he promotes genuine conversations about members' lives to create a culture of support and vulnerability. Adam also introduced interest-based activities outside regular meetings, which strengthened camaraderie. Additionally, informal tools like WhatsApp have kept members connected and supported between gatherings, enhancing the sense of community.
04:10 - Adam's Location and Temple Proximity
05:17 - Adam's Profession and Role
06:02 - Adam's Experience as Elders Quorum President
07:06 - Challenges of Reintegrating After COVID
08:02 - Demographics of the Quorum
08:59 - Meeting Locations and Challenges
09:46 - Initial Steps as Elders Quorum President
10:50 - Focus on Ministering Assignments
12:05 - Building Connection and Unity
13:10 - Moving from Ideal to Reality in Lessons
18:30 - Importance of Vulnerability in Discussions
20:12 - Engaging Different Groups in Lessons
24:51 - Real-Life Example: Discussing Blessings
30:01 - Connection Precedes Meaningful Instruction
30:44 - Creating Ground Rules for Safety
35:03 - Connection Outside Sunday Meetings
39:58 - Interest-Based Micro Groups
40:33 - Managing Activities and Engagement
41:22 - Using WhatsApp for Communication
44:40 - Ministering to the Ministers
47:51 - Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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