Before the Session

• Have the Bible Background Video ready to view.
• Review today’s scripture text and the session activities to help better facilitate the discussion.
• Encourage your group to listen to the Faithelement podcast ahead of the next session (Share the link via email or social media).

Context (From the Current Session Page)

One of PBS’ most popular shows is Finding Your Roots with Dr. Henry Louis Gates Jr. In the show, Gates uncovers celebrities’ ancestry and often finds one’s ancestors were enslaved or were slave owners. Show this clip from the program.. Then lead a discussion using prompts like these:

• Why do you think this discovery brought about that reaction?
• How would you feel if you found out that your ancestors owned slaves?
• Is it hard to put ourselves in the shoes of people whose ancestors were enslaved and feel what they feel?
• Slaves were known for their spiritual beliefs. Do you think it was hard at times for them to believe in God?
• Could it be just as hard for slave owners to believe that God would care about slaves?

Content (From the Mind Session Page)

Read Genesis 21:8-21, and together watch the Bible Background Video. Then lead a discussion using questions like these: