Bible talk

Hi Amy, That sounds very interesting and that sounds like fascinating place to intern. However, this subject does not align with any of the objectives and goals of the GTM Research Reserve’s Management Plan, nor is it related to personnel directives from DEP (e.g., safety, HR procedures, purchasing, etc.) so it is not something we can promote here. I would advise anyone who thinks talking about religion in the workplace will make them more comfortable, there are those that it will make uncomfortable. To avoid conflicts, I ask that employees focus on the topics affiliated with the Reserve’s goals and consider setting aside time when they are off-duty for other topics. Thank you, Lia From: Howard, Amy <Amy.Howard@FloridaDEP.gov> Sent: Thursday, November 2, 2023 8:35 AM To: Sansom, Lia <Lia.Sansom@dep.state.fl.us> Subject: Bible talk Hi Lia. Last year, I interned at this company in Atlantic Beach. This sign was posted in the breakroom: I joined them and found it to be impartial and highly academic. It was led by a religion professor at UNF. It was a great way to get to know like-minded coworkers and clear the air for people to express their spiritual side. I would love to see that opportunity here at GTM. Our country is being rocked by religious controversies. The news is peppered with warnings of WWIII, centered on the Holy Land. And yet, a coworker here actually told me they don’t feel free to discuss their faith here. I thought about making time for just that person, but that would be exclusive. Yuck. If we had a window dedicated to faith discussions, I think it would actually teach us how to promote peace. I am an active proponent of interfaith dialog. I have dear friends who are Jewish and Muslim. However, the Bible is a good place to start, since it seems to be the center of these larger conflicts. It is also a good place to start because Christian doctrine is grounded in loving our neighbor AND our enemies. If we feel like criticizing someone, it is a red flag to find a reason to love them and a way to show it. May I post a sign in the breakroom inviting the staff to meet in the auditorium for Bible Talk once a week? No rush for an answer. Thank you, Amy Howard Florida Department of Environmental Protection GTM Research Reserve 505 Guana River Road Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32082 Receptionist amy.howard@floridadep.gov Office - 904-380-8600