In a county that's roughly 95 percent white, it may be difficult for Butler residents to identify with the ongoing discussions — and demonstrations — on race throughout the country.

That's why the Rev. Brady Randall, campus pastor of Orchard Hill Church-Butler County, organized a panel to discuss “Race and the Church,” from 9 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Saturday at the church, 107 Staley Ave.

“The question is: What can a predominately white church or a predominately white culture within Butler County do to cause positive change?” Randall asked.

The panel consists of David Bowens, a Black worship leader at the church's main Wexford campus; Heather Warheit, whose sister is Black; and Emily and Justin Barnes, a mixed-race couple who are both deaf.

Randall said the goal is not to push forth any specific viewpoint on the issue of race or diversity in the United States, but rather to present the panelists' backgrounds and experience and to challenge any preconceptions attendees may have.

“A lot of times we are quick to jump on to one side or the other without truly trying to understand the other person or side,” he said. “It's really easy, you see something on the news, you see something on social media, and we're really quick to jump on one side or the other, and I think there has to be some nuance.”

While much of the background of this event stems from the protests that followed the death of George Floyd at the hands of Minneapolis police on May 25, Randall said the protests closer to home were the immediate impetus for the panel.

“This is not just something in the news. This is something that hits close to home,” he said. “And what we know is that this can be a really divisive issue … and what we want to do is challenge our own entrenched, preconceived notions.”

The panel, Randall said, will likely be the first of several encouraging people to “listen before we speak.”

“What we want is this to be the first step in listening and engaging in dialogue, and not only do we want to engage in reflecting the community, but really in guiding the community,” he said, adding he thinks the church should “lead the way in listening and humility” on any number of issues.

Child care is available, if needed, but the church requests attendees register ahead of the event. Registration is available on Orchard Hill's website on the events page at orchardhillchurch.com/butler-county-events.