In the midst of intercultural life, Pastor Kevin Haah admits that he, like anyone, has ethnocentric tendencies that are potentially hurtful to others.  He discusses that through a posture of humility and attentiveness, a leader can learn from mistakes and help with healing.  As a leader he can help shape the church’s environment so that God’s transforming grace is engaged. How does this process unfold? → On p 206, Branson discusses topics that require special attention as one develops intercultural communicative competencies. First among a list of six topics is oneself.  The leader can ask questions like, “What are the cultural patterns you bring to the conversation?” Or, “Do you understand how you communicate respect or disrespect?” This is related to the practice of “getting on the balcony” (p 215) in order to see how we affect others in our ongoing interactions. The leader’s reflections are important steps in developing intercultural communication skills. Read through the six topics on pp 206-208 and begin to imagine how you might engage with your own ethnocentric communication tendencies.  Discuss what you are thinking with others.