Seaside Library to Host Talk on Bridging Political Divides

Retired minister Lowell Greathouse will lead discussion on finding common ground across political differences.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 4:36pm

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The Seaside Public Library in Oregon will host a talk on April 4th led by retired United Methodist minister Lowell Greathouse. The discussion, titled 'Talking About Values Across Political Divides,' is part of the Oregon Humanities' 'Beyond 250 Conversation Project' series aimed at getting Oregonians to discuss democracy, freedom, and what it means to be American. The event is free and open to the public.

Why it matters

With political polarization on the rise, the event aims to provide a forum for community members to have constructive dialogues and find common ground despite their differing political views. The talk reflects broader concerns about the challenges of having productive political conversations in today's contentious climate.

The details

Greathouse, who served congregations in Oregon, Idaho, and England from 1986 to 2019, will facilitate the discussion. A core question will be 'How can I be me without making it difficult for you to be you?' The event is made possible through the Oregon Humanities' 'Beyond 250 Conversation Project' series.

  • The talk will take place on April 4, 2026 at 2 p.m.

The players

Lowell Greathouse

A retired United Methodist minister who has worked with community-based programs at Catholic Social Services, Community Action, and United Way. He is the author of the 2020 book 'Rediscovering the Spirit: From Political Brokenness to Spiritual Wholeness.'

Seaside Public Library

The library hosting the event at 1131 Broadway St. in Seaside, Oregon.

Oregon Humanities

The organization behind the 'Beyond 250 Conversation Project' series that is sponsoring the event.

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What they’re saying

“How can I be me without making it difficult for you to be you?”

— Lowell Greathouse, Retired United Methodist Minister

What’s next

The event is free and open to the public. Those interested in attending can find more details at the Seaside Public Library's website.

The takeaway

This event provides an opportunity for Seaside community members to engage in constructive dialogue across political divides and find common ground on the values that unite them as Americans, despite their differing political affiliations.