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11/05/2020, Progressing Spirit, Rev. Mark Sandlin: Eternal Totality: On a More Rational God; Spong Revisited
by Ellie Stock 05 Nov '20

05 Nov '20

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p{ font-size:16px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv6348100585 #yiv6348100585templateBody .yiv6348100585mcnTextContent, #yiv6348100585 #yiv6348100585templateBody .yiv6348100585mcnTextContent p{ font-size:14px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv6348100585 #yiv6348100585templateFooter .yiv6348100585mcnTextContent, #yiv6348100585 #yiv6348100585templateFooter .yiv6348100585mcnTextContent p{ font-size:12px !important;line-height:150% !important;} } | | | | View this email in your browser | | | | | | | | | | | | | | Eternal Totality: On a More Rational God | | | | | | | | | | Essay by Rev. Mark Sandlin November 3, 2020 Religion prefers a definable God. By definition, one of the purposes of religion is to draw us closer to God. The way religion has typically been practiced, this implies some degree of “knowing” God. To know God we must be able to define God. The problem is, in the act of defining God, we are limiting God. What kind of god is a limited god? Is that even a god at all? For me that is one of the downfalls of most religions. They tend to be rooted in our need for a personal god. One that actually is knowable. Ultimately, a knowable god is a slippery slope. If we know God, we can begin to define God. Those who are tasked with defining God can then begin to shape God. In shaping God, we control certain things about God. What kind of god is a controllable god? Is that even a god at all? It seems to me that religion, by its very nature, is predestined to feed us a less than nuanced, less than thorough, less than authentic understanding of God. In short, a god that is less than god-like. Our need to personalize, understand, and (ultimately) control God removes much of the divine from God. I am left to wonder if Jesus told parables to teach us about God because they are more open-ended than just stating “facts” about God and defining God. Could it be that that is the reality that Jesus' Jewish ancestors are trying to teach us with the story they told about finding God in a burning bush. A story in which God itself proclaims the divine name to be, יהוה – YHWH, “I am” or “I will be what I will be.” The scene is rooted in nature and the name of God is open-ended, practically undefinable. I'd even argue that the storyteller(s) made them so intentionally undefinable that it should preclude much of the anthropomorphizing of God that happens throughout the scripture as well as throughout history and religions. Perhaps, that is the God Albert Einstein said he believed in, “Spinoza's God.” Buruch Spinoza was one of the most important philosophers of the early modern period of philosophy. At the age of 24, his religious leaders excommunicated him for “monstrous deeds” and “abominable heresies.” No one is quite certain what these “monstrous deeds” and “abominable heresies” were, but based on his later writings, it doesn't take much imagination to surmise that they had to do with his early philosophical and theological ponderings which ran heavily against the teachings of the religion and the leaders that gave him the boot. Spinoza's God stood over and against much of what traditional Judeo-Christian theology taught. Creation was not something separate from God which God caused to happen out of freewill. Rather, Creation was God in that it was of God and from God and of the substance of God. It formed because it could do no other. Creation flowed out of the nature of God, out of the all-ness of God, the everything-ness of God. The philosophical/theological impact of that understanding is massive. Creation just is. It wasn't created with a specific purpose as traditional Judeo-Christianity taught, rather, its full purpose was being. Extending that a bit further, it should no longer follow that an anthropomorphized understanding of a god who stands in judgement over us is necessary more or less a rational presumption. Would God need to stand in judgement of godself? In terms of modern religion, much of our teachings and time are spent in the space between hope and fear. It is in those very spaces that much of our beliefs/superstitions are born. The tension between hope and fear gives rise to some extremely problematic and hurtful emotions. Those very emotions can become prohibitive to fully experiencing joy and peace and love in this life. I have to say, Spinoza's God seems much more rational and life giving than the version of God that has been grown out the space between hope and fear by organized religion. Unlike the god of many religions, Spinoza's God is not a God of judgement in need of adoration and obedience. Instead, Spinoza's God is the substance from which all is formed, from which all flows. It is to be experienced, not feared. It calls for our curiosity and fascination, not our adoration. In that, Spinoza's God is understood through philosophy and science, rather than through religious institutions and “personal relationships” with God. For some, that god flies in the face of some of the attributes they associate with God. As an example, that understanding of God has no room for miracles. All that flows is from God. The laws of reality (physics) stem from and are of the substance of God. How then could we expect God to bend the laws of reality just for us. Or, worse yet, for us and not for others? That also implies that the way many modern prayers approach God are useless. Flinging out wishes that ask for reality to be altered to the source from whom reality extends is futile at best. For Spinoza, rather than asking for favors from God, our focus should be on understanding what God wants. We do this through science, philosophy, and psychology. A rather creative and beautiful meme written by Michelle Fortes that made its way around social media over the last several months provides what I believe to be an imagined, contemporary quote from Spinoza on what that looks like. For me, it leans a bit heavily toward the writings of Neal Donald Walsh and ironically anthropomorphizes God, but I appreciate the extrapolation of what understanding Spinoza's God could look like and what that God might tell us: “Stop being praying and giving you blows in the chest, what I want you to do is to go out into the world to enjoy your life. I want you to enjoy, you sing, have fun and enjoy everything I’ve done for you. Stop going to those gloomy, dark and cold temples that you built yourself and that you say to be my home... “Stop blaming me for your miserable life; I never told you you were a sinner. Stop having me so scared. I do not judge you, nor criticize you, nor anger me, nor bother me, nor punishment. I am pure love... “I have made you absolutely free, there are no prizes or punishments, there are no sins or virtues, no one carries a marker, no one carries a record. You are absolutely free to create in your life a heaven or hell... “Respect your peers and don’t do what you don’t want for you. The only thing I ask is that you pay attention in your life, that your alert status is your guide. This life is the only thing there is, here and now and the only thing you need.... “Express your joy! That’s the way to praise me.” It's a beautiful expression of what life can be or even what life should be. The difficulty comes in our humanity. We have two approaches to life that pulls us in very different directions. Spinoza defines them as the “aspect of time” and the “aspect of eternity.” Our immediate, experiential life encourages us towards a time-bound, more person centered view of life. A great deal of religious teachings about God are based on this here-and-now perspective. On the other hand, our intellect and ability to reason draw us toward a fuller understanding of existence and our place in it. Or, as Spinoza poetically puts it, they invite us to take part in “eternal totality.” As it turns out, approaching life through an aspect of eternity rather than an aspect of time, will actually guide us in a way that makes it easier to follow the lessons of great spiritual teachers like Jesus. When we focus our attention too finitely on the here-and-now, the things that bring us the most joy, happiness, and satisfaction tend to be things that impact us the most positively as individuals. They also tend to be based more on emotion than on reason. Conversely, when we focus on the eternal nature of Creation and the divine, the things that bring us the most joy, happiness, and satisfaction tend to be the things that impact the universal good the most positively. They also tend to be based more on reason than on emotion. I'm not arguing for a purely logical theological outlook, but I am suggesting that a more rational theological outlook is much more likely to enable us to follow the lessons of Jesus and other great spiritual teachers. As Spinoza put it in his Theologico Political Treatise, “I have often wondered, that persons who make a boast of professing the Christian religion, namely, love, joy, peace, temperance, and charity to all men, should quarrel with such rancorous animosity, and display daily towards one another such bitter hatred, that this, rather than the virtues they claim, is the readiest criterion of their faith.” This more rational, eternal understanding of theology should not only lead us to more readily put into practice things like equality, love, peace, and joy, but should challenge us to dig deeper in our understanding of God. In the end, for me, Spinoza's God is a god that is much more likely to be the god to which Jesus was trying to point us toward than the God that is professed and praised in far too many religions. ~ Rev. Mark Sandlin Read online here About the Author Rev. Mark Sandlin is an ordained minister in the Presbyterian Church (USA) from the South. He currently serves at Presbyterian Church of the Covenant. He is a co-founder of The Christian Left. His blog, has been named as one of the “Top Ten Christian Blogs.” Mark received The Associated Church Press’ Award of Excellence in 2012. His work has been published on “The Huffington Post,” “Sojourners,” “Time,” “Church World Services,” and even the “Richard Dawkins Foundation.” He’s been featured on PBS’s “Religion & Ethics NewsWeekly” and NPR’s “The Story with Dick Gordon.” Follow Mark on Facebook and Twitter @marksandlin. | | | | | | | | Question & Answer Q: By A Reader I embrace today's "new age spirituality" where Mind, Body and Spirit are aligned under a new paradigm of oneness with all - that no longer supports the dogma of traditional religious institutions. My question is whether there is still room for my bible from which I have found so much comfort and wisdom? A: By Rev. Dr. Matthew Fox Dear Reader, Of course there is room for the Bible, properly treated and understood, in a more “new age” philosophy—after all there is plenty in the Bible, especially the Wisdom literature of the Hebrew Bible that nurtured the historical Jesus and the mystical meanings of the Cosmic Christ in the New Testament; and that supports the sense of “the all” (a term used by Paul) and the holiness of all things. (Consider my and Bishop Marc Andrus book on The Stations of the Cosmic Christ to see the mysticism behind all the great events recorded in the life of Jesus and the “I am” sayings of the Christ.) In addition, much of the prophetic tradition recorded in the Bible offers a needed balance to “new age” which often suffers from too much basking in the “Light” and not enough acknowledging of darkness and suffering—a “Cosmic Christ” that is all light and no wounds. A weakness of new age is that it can sometimes withdraw from acting for justice - the prophets of Israel, Jesus included, did, stood up to injustice and distorted power of their day. Remember what Gandhi said: “I learned to say No from the West.,” meaning, from Jesus and the prophets of Israel. “No” is what prophets do, they “interfere” as Rabbi Heschel puts it. So the prophetic tradition of the Bible is very important. So too is the Wisdom tradition important at this time in history, because the wisdom tradition is about finding the sacred in nature. It is understood to be the spiritual lineage of the historical Jesus. “Taste and see that God is good,” as the psalmist sings. At this time of climate emergency (climate change has provided the incubator for the coronavirus and many other viruses that will be coming), of racial reckoning and Black Lives Matter, of the demise of Mother Earth and the untold extinction spasms of millions of species, of misogyny and matricide (the killing of Mother Earth), clearly a prophetic lineage is necessary to go along with the mystical (which new age is more at home with). A mature dialectic between the two, the mystical and prophetic, makes for a truly spiritual gifting to the world. The Biblical tradition has something solid to give the East and to New Age. “The prophet is the mystic in action,” said American philosopher William Hocking early in the twentieth century. Much of “new age” appeal has been, as you point out, moving beyond dogmas and stale doctrines from another era and worldview. And its willingness to be open more to the body, to science, and to mysticism than has mainline religion of late. It is also open to wisdom teachings from an interfaith or deep ecumenical perspective. To begin with the experience of awe, wonder and goodness (the via positiva of the mystics) is a necessary counterweight to so much of western religion that begins with anthropocentric sin and redemption, guilt, shame, patriarchal pessimism and “fatalistic self-hatred,” to use Adrienne Rich’s strong words. Addressing the via negativa, including the dark night of our souls and the dark night of our species and the suffering of so many beings on earth today, is very important. Hopefully, the new age movement can mature and face the shadow and address it. The Biblical tradition, with its insistence on standing up to injustice and developing warrior energy along with mysticism, can assist in that process. ~ Rev. Dr. Matthew Fox Read and share online here About the Author Rev. Dr. Matthew Fox holds a doctorate in spirituality from the Institut Catholique de Paris and has authored 35 books on spirituality and contemporary culture that have been translated into 74 languages. Fox has devoted 45 years to developing and teaching the tradition of Creation Spirituality and in doing so has reinvented forms of education and worship (called The Cosmic Mass). His work is inclusive of today’s science and world spiritual traditions and has awakened millions to the much neglected earth-based mystical tradition of the West. He has helped to rediscover Hildegard of Bingen, Meister Eckhart, Thomas Aquinas. Among his books are A Way To God: Thomas Merton's Creation Spirituality Journey; Meister Eckhart: A Mystic-Warrior For Our Times; Hildegard of Bingen: A Saint for Our Times; Stations of the Cosmic Christ; Order of the Sacred Earth; The Tao of Thomas Aquinas: Fierce Wisdom for Hard Times; and Julian of Norwich: Wisdom in a Time of Pandemic – And Beyond. To encourage a passionate response to the news of climate change advancing so rapidly, Fox started Daily Meditations with Matthew Fox - See Welcome from Matthew Fox. | | | | | | | | Please continue to send us your feedback… we are listening. We aim to give voice to many different perspectives that are relevant and inspiring along this spiritually progressing path. We are not here to tell you what to believe or how to act. We are here to support your journey, to share and learn together.Thank you for being a part of this community - join us on Facebook! | | | | | | This week's donation request | | | | | | | | Authors who have broadened our understanding of what it means to be a follower of Jesus Think back to the moments when your ideas of what it meant to be a follower of Jesus began to expand. Who helped to broaden your horizons? Diana Butler Bass? Marcus Borg? Phyllis Tickle? John Dominic Crossan? Yvette Flunder? John Shelby Spong? How have you nourished your search for truth since those first moments? We hope that the resources that ProgressiveChristianity.org/Progressing Spirit provides have helped you continue to expand your definitions of what Christianity is and should become. The truth is that in order to continue the momentum of the Progressive Christian Movement, we need your help and support. Unfortunately, fundamentalist Christians often have the loudest voices and it is more important than ever before to have an organization like ProgressiveChristianity.org/Progressing Spirit that proclaims an authentic, intellectually honest faith. Over the next year, we would like to expand our resource offerings and continue to help you hear from established and emerging Progressive Christian thinkers, but we need your help to be able to do so. If you believe in the work that we’re doing, we invite you to consider becoming a supporting member. Your gifts really do make a difference. | | | | | | | | Bishop John Shelby Spong Revisited The Origins of the New Testament, Part XV: Who Is Christ for Paul? The Gospel in Romans Essay by Bishop John Shelby Spong February 11, 2010 It was Paul’s experience-based conviction that somehow and in some way everything that he meant by the word “God” had been met and was present in the life of the one he called Christ Jesus. “God was in Christ” was the way he referred to it rather ecstatically in one of his earlier epistles. Of course, as a citizen of the first century, Paul believed that God was a supernatural, external being who had by some means been met in human history in the person of Jesus. Part of what this Christ experience meant to Paul was that “in Christ” all human boundaries disappeared. As Paul wrote to the Galatians several years earlier, “In Christ there is neither Jew nor Greek, male nor female, bond nor free.” That was for Paul “a new creation” that had overcome the deep-seated human sense of being separated, alone, broken and in need of restoration or healing. In Paul’s mind only God could do this act of healing or be the healer to bring about this sense of a new wholeness. Because he believed that he found this healing in Jesus he was driven to the obvious conclusion that through some means or by some process God must be uniquely present in this Christ. This was in a nutshell Paul’s thinking process. How did the holy God become present in Jesus so that this gift of salvation in Jesus could be offered? That was not so clear in Paul. He gives no evidence that he had ever heard of the late-developing (9th decade) tradition introduced by Matthew that Jesus was miraculously born of a virgin, who had conceived by the Holy Spirit. Of Jesus’ origins Paul says only that “he was born of a woman,” like every human being is born, and that he “was born under the law” like every other Jew. The word Paul used in this reference had absolutely no connotation of “virgin” in it. Paul also appears to have no knowledge that Jesus was a miracle worker. He never mentions a miracle attributed to Jesus in the entire Pauline corpus. Miracles appear to be an 8th decade addition to the developing Jesus story introduced primarily by Mark, then copied by Matthew before being developed in more detail in both Luke and John. For Paul, Jesus was not a deity masquerading as a human being or a divine visitor to Earth; he was rather a human life in whom God had been experienced as present. As I mentioned earlier in this series, Paul seems to say in the first four verses of Romans that God actually incorporated Jesus into God at the time of the resurrection. Whenever Paul talks about the resurrection, he describes it as an act of God, not an act of Jesus. God raised Jesus from the dead for Paul; Jesus never rises from the dead by his own power. Paul did speak in Philippians, in a passage that I will get to soon, about God somehow emptying the divine presence into Jesus of Nazareth, but the words there do not mean preexistence as they are so often interpreted to suggest. There was, however, a God presence that was in Christ of which Paul was certain, and in that God presence he rested his claim for the salvation that he was certain Jesus came to bring. Can we translate Paul’s experience of being made whole in Christ Jesus into an explanation that is appropriate to our time, when to speak about God as dwelling above the sky violates everything we have learned since the days of Galileo in the 17th century? Can we speak of God as intervening in life and history in a supernatural way without violating everything we have learned about how the universe operates since the days of Isaac Newton? Can we still speak of the original perfection of human life and its subsequent fall into sin without violating everything we have learned about human origins from the time of Charles Darwin? That is our task in this column. We begin by turning the religious question around. What was there about Jesus that caused the people who had experienced his presence to explain it in supernatural terms? What was there about him that caused people to assert that human life alone could never have produced what it was they met in Jesus? That was what virgin birth traditions were designed to do. What was there about Jesus' life that caused them to attribute miracles to him; nature miracles, healing miracles, raising of the dead miracles? In the climax of the Jesus story, what was there about Jesus' life that caused them to believe that death itself, what Paul called the last enemy, was overcome byhim? Paul was certain that wholeness was the gift of Christ, that in this Jesus the world that had long been separated from God was now reconciled, that in Jesus God and human life had come together and that humanity and divinity had entered one another. The eternal and the temporal had in the life of Jesus touched each other. In seeking to understand how the disciples of Jesus tried to communicate this truth, we have to look at the way the Jesus experience was described in the later gospel tradition. First, tribal boundaries were transcended. The call of Christ was to a new humanity in which tribal identity mattered not at all. We see this all over Mark's Gospel, as he has Jesus heal the daughter of a Syrophoenician Gentile woman and then raise back to life the daughter of a Gentile named Jairus. It is Mark who has Jesus feed a Jewish crowd of 5000 people with five loaves on the Jewish side of the lake and then feed a Gentile crowd of 4000 with seven loaves on the Gentile side of the lake. It is Mark who puts a Gentile soldier underneath the cross to watch Jesus draw his final breath and then to pronounce that truly God was present in this life. "Surely this man was the Son of God", he is quoted as saying. This soldier was not engaged in a 4th Century Christological debate, as he is so often interpreted to be doing. He was rather describing the new God-filled humanity found in the human ability to give life away, to escape the survival-oriented reality of humanity. It was Matthew who has Jesus' final words be the divine commission to carry the meaning of Jesus, the life-giving love of God, beyond the boundaries of our tribal security by going into all the world - to those who are different, unbaptized, uncircumcised, unclean, but still not beyond the love of God, as this Jesus revealed. It was Luke who suggested that the story of Jesus was not complete until it had rolled from Galilee, where it began; to Samaria, the home of those who were the objects of the deepest Jewish prejudice in the 1st Century; to Jerusalem, the center of the Jewish world; and finally to Rome, which was then the center of the world itself. The Jesus experience that would ultimately dominate the gospels would set aside human prejudice against Samaritans, against lepers, against women, because human wholeness can never be found in the denigration of another. The Jesus of the gospels would transcend the boundaries of religion in the name of humanity, best symbolized in the words attributed to him that all religious rules are finally in the service of expanded humanity. Even the Sabbath day laws must always be set aside if they ever diminish human life. These were the things that seemed to flow from the life of this Jesus, bearing witness to the fact that his humanity was full, complete and free. He did not need the sweet narcotic of human praise in order to be whole. He did not have to build himself up by tearing down another or even lording it over another. He embraced everyone just as they were, from the rich young ruler to the woman caught in the act of adultery. He loved them into being all that they could be. This quality of the life of Jesus is more profoundly recorded in the story of his crucifixion than anywhere else. Jesus was betrayed and he loved his betrayer. Jesus was denied and he loved his denier. Jesus was forsaken and he loved his forsakers. Jesus was judged worthy of being condemned, mocked, persecuted and murdered and he loved those who condemned, mocked, persecuted and killed him. That is not the picture of a broken human life, but of a whole life, a complete life, one free to give life away because that one possesses life so fully. The quintessential essence of his life comes in the portrait of his dying. Jesus is not pictured as grasping at life or seeking to extend it another minute; rather as his life is draining away, he is still portrayed as giving life and love to others. As he dies, he is pictured as speaking a word of forgiveness to the soldiers, a word of hope to the penitent and words of consolation to a grieving mother. That is a life power in him that death cannot overcome. Those who do not know how to live cling to life with a desperation born out of fear, but those who possess life are free to lay it down because death no longer has dominion over them. That is what people saw in Jesus. These were also the things about Jesus of Nazareth that grasped at the heart of the fragile, self-denigrating Paul, the Paul who felt fragmented, who experienced a war between the law that governed his body and the law that governed his mind, the Paul who cried out in anguish, "O, wretched man that I am, who shall deliver me from this body of death?" In and through Jesus, as Jesus had been presented to him, Paul experienced the healing presence of the love of God, a love that accepted him as he was and called him into being all that he could be. That was the meaning of salvation for Paul and since only God could bring that salvation, so Jesus must be of God. Paul opened himself to that experience and lived into it. That is why he claimed that he lived in the glorious liberty of the children of God. That is why he could write that nothing could separate him from the love of God. It was out of Paul's sense of having found wholeness, reconciliation and atonement in Jesus that he wanted to bear the Jesus message to the world. All human life, he believed, quite accurately, must find a way to be lifted beyond its survival mentality into the ability to live for another, to give life away to another. Paul found that power in Jesus. The Christian Church lives today but for one reason: To make people aware of the love of God that accepts us as we are and then calls us to life fully and to be all that each of us can be. Then we give that gift away to all. That is what it means to say God was in Christ. ~ John Shelby Spong | | | | | | | | Announcements Cultivate a Resilient Heart in Times of Suffering Seven hundred years ago, a woman named Julian of Norwich lived through circumstances closely resembling what we’re experiencing today: a raging, never-ending war, tumultuous social unrest, and, on top of it all, a plague. You can register here for "November 5th Event: Cultivate a Resilient Heart in Times of Suffering: Finding Hope, Courage & Joy in the Truth-Telling Teachings of Julian of Norwich". | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

1 0

film about Teilhard de Chardin
by Susan Fertig 02 Nov '20

02 Nov '20

Scroll down to get the actual article and links. (Wayyyy down—it is buried near the end.) [cid:image001.jpg@01D6AB86.2EE2C830] Susan Susan Fertig-Dykes And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought . Isaiah 58:11 From: WIFV <director(a)wifv.org> Sent: Monday, October 26, 2020 10:03 AM To: Susan Fertig <sfertig(a)blueskytech.us> Subject: WIFV Weekly Update: Oct 16 - Nov 1, 2020 Nothing Scary, Just Treats! Keep scrolling. [https://mlsvc01-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/d763b936001/07d768d1-42ac-4fc4-93c8-f…]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/840238a9-49f8-4c97-a09f-a4cae…] Welcome to WIFV's Weekly Update [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] The Monday Missive shares items of event reminders, crowdfunding campaigns, some of the week's top news stories, info on member benefits, and more! WIFV is placing a strong focus on our community with online programming and providing updated COVID-19 Resources<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Make suggestions about programming and resources that WIFV should provide HERE<mailto:director@wifv.org>. Have news to share? Send an email by Thursday to membership(a)wifv.org<mailto:membership@wifv.org>. This Week with WIFV [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] Women's Career Accelerator Workshop - Oct 25 - 27 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/cbfd6588-daab-42f6-b7fa-fc877…]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> You've worked hard. Now it's time to take charge of your #leadership journey. Announcing the Women's Career Accelerator Workshop October 25-27 from #GALSNGEAR and Future Media Conferences. Expertly led, interactive sessions will focus on three keys to moving your career forward: a customized leadership framework, powering up your #negotiating<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> skills (with past WIFV Board Member Susan Borke), and how to build your leadership #brand<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> (with #GALSNGEAR Founder and WIFV Past President Amy DeLouise). Plus guest speakers, time to network, and a hot-seats Ask Me Anything rock star panel. $299 is a bargain for this investment in your leadership readiness--use code WIFV20 for $50 off for WIFV members! REGISTER NOW<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> at http://bit.ly/WeLead20<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> - space is limited! October 26 DEADLINE WIFV Fiscal Sponsorship The WIFV Board of Directors is pleased to offer a fiscal sponsorship<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> program to support the film and media projects of its members. The WIFV Fiscal Sponsorship Program provides limited financial and legal oversight for a project initiated independently by a filmmaker. That project must be non-commercial in nature, i.e. not produced solely for financial gain. Sponsored Projects are eligible to solicit and receive grants and tax-deductible contributions. Review the application checklist before applying. More info and submit here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Updo's for all Textures - October 26 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a451e186-6256-4b8b-b819-fc6c9…] QUICK UPDO'S ON ALL TEXTURE HAIR: Trendy hairstyles with natural and or extension hair Demo by Christie Love and Mika C. Monday, October 26, 6:30 pm FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. Getting Into the Writers Room - October 27 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/1209f81e-f9f1-4d0b-b797-492ba…] Panel discussing the many ways of joining a television writers room! It isn't always a straight line and it isn't always pretty. It is dynamic and all about collaboration. Ligiah Villalobos will lead the discussion and be joined by Karyn Langhorne Folan and Paul Ruehl. They will share about competitions, studio-run professional opportunities, and results of hard work! RSVP and Panelist Bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Tuesday, October 27, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> You will be sent the login link with your registration confirmation email. Afternoon Networking - October 29 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/b89b92a6-dbd3-40f2-a7e2-64a87…] The afternoon Happy Hours are a chance to see new faces and discuss what's on your mind. Bring your own beverage! Collaborations have already been formed. Thursday, October 29 at 4:30 pm RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. Doc Distribution - October 29 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/1209f81e-f9f1-4d0b-b797-492ba…] Yes, you can do the distribution of your documentary yourself! You will have been building an audience. You might even have the energy. But wouldn't you rather understand the eco-system for non-fiction distribution before you make any decisions? Panelists Mike Garrity, Peter Hamilton, Kate Pearson, and Ann Zamudio know public television, cable, festivals, and networks. RSVP and Panelist Bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Thursday, October 29, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. Animators: 3D Kitbashing - October 29 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/4318cd11-32e5-4b38-abd6-6ecc4…] We will explore the use of ‘ready-made' 3D models to accelerate the ideas and concepts of storytelling. Photobashing has been around for a long time and is commonly used for concepting by artists and animators in many industries including Hollywood and gaming. Time is money. And with the proliferation of people and companies providing these 3D assets, often free or inexpensive, it is wonderful to have these sources at our fingertips 24 hours a day. Troy Benesch will show how he uses kitbashing for his personal projects and incorporates it into his workflow and share his favorite sources for these assets. RSVP and Panelist Bio here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Thursday, October 29, 6:30 pm FREE WIFV Members / $10 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. Next Week with WIFV [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] Directors Rdtble: RADIUM GIRLS Directors - Nov 2 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/916ae59f-9372-40b6-8f61-7c64e…] We are delighted to be able to provide an opportunity for you to meet Lydia Dean Pilcher (Producer/ Director) and Ginny Mohler (Writer/Director) of the newly-released RADIUM GIRLS. Trailer available here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. You are encouraged to purchase a ticket and watch this film well in advance of the discussion on November 2. Panelist bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Purchase your $12.00 movie ticket to watch RADIUM GIRLS here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>: Monday, November 2 at 6:30 pm Roundtable is FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. This is an online program. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. Morning Networking - November 3 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a82d4551-e262-49c0-be11-49212…] You bring the coffee, we bring the colleagues! Tuesday, November 3 at 9:30 am RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. This is an online gathering. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. Writing from Outside the Centers - November 3 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/1209f81e-f9f1-4d0b-b797-492ba…] We want to dispel the myth that you have to live Los Angeles or New York to write scripts that get produced or even to participate in a collaborative writing experience. Join this conversation with Megan Holley, Harold Jackson III, and film critic Leslie Combermale to learn otherwise! RSVP and Panelist Bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Tuesday, November 3, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Election results can't be announced before 8:00 pm and you don't want to miss this discussion! All ScriptDC programs are online webinars. You will be sent the login link with your registration confirmation email. Protections for You & Your Media - November 4 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/795543f4-ded5-4535-b3ca-90650…] If you're a journalist or an activist creating media in today's polarized political climate, it can feel fraught. Is the government going to target you if you create critical media? Will people with opposing views harass you? Will they threaten you or publish your information publicly ("doxxing")? Join us for a panel on the various ways media makers can protect themselves legally, technologically, and physically, as well as external resources that can be tapped for creators facing government scrutiny or online harassment. Panelists include: Dr. Gabriella Coleman, Jilisa Milton JD, MSW, and Cheryl Jacobs Crim. See panelist bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Wednesday, November 4 at 6:30 pm RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. $10 WIFV Members / $20 Public This is an online gathering. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. One Woman, One Vote Film Festival Closes Nov 3 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/21c6cdfa-e0b0-42ec-9282-a8654…] To celebrate the centennial of the 19th amendment winning women the vote and continue to bring women's voices front and center, the 2020 One Woman One Vote Festival (OWOV) and Women Make Movies (WMM) invite you to join us in a nationwide initiative -- the 2020 One Woman One Vote Film Festival, a curated collection of films<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> for you to create your own online film event<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=001mJnGWjmWNfpm8MpAnvA5uGqrw5ExmfbdzZDs1qIn7s_I…>, and four online national screening events to encourage, inspire and empower women everywhere to use their power for change. The collection titles are available at no charge through November 3, 2020. For more information visit 2020owovfest.org<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Members to Support [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] REDISCOVERING FIRE: The Evolution of Teilhard de Chardin, produced by Mary and Frank Frost [Teilhard de Chardin intro to documentary in production]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> It's time to introduce a new generation to Pierre Teilhard de Chardin – the paleontologist and visionary French Jesuit priest, whose relentless effort to reframe his beliefs in the light of evolution in the 20th Century led to a paradigm shift in the relationship of science and religion. He foresaw the evolutionary emergence of the internet, globalization, and today's trans-humanism movement, although he was perhaps overly optimistic in his vision. His legacy includes a strong environmental movement and fresh explorations in cosmic spirituality. The Teilhard de Chardin Project consists of a documentary for public television with PBS partner Oregon Public Broadcasting and a robust web portal serving viewers intrigued by the transformative ideas that motivated Teilhard. This film has completed principal photography and is seeking funding for post-production and distribution. Your contributions are gratefully received and are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Your tax-deductible contribution may be made here. <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> The Monday Missive features WIFV's fiscally sponsored projects on a weekly basis. Make sure to learn more about what WIFV members are doing! For more info on the WIFV fiscally-sponsored projects, click here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. The Greatest Knockout Tickets Available CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALI'S RESOUNDING RETURN TO THE RING OCTOBER 26, 1970 Olayimika Cole cordially invites you to an exclusive virtual showcase event for our soon to be released film, ALI'S COMEBACK: the untold story on October 26, 2020. This interactive event “The Greatest Knockout”, which will show select scenes from the award-winning documentary. Also, afterward, a Q&A session with the film’s principals will take place. We have an all-star line-up including Khalilah Ali, Juan(John) Carlos, Edwin Moses and Billboard No1 artist Maxi Priest. Please dress 70s style and let your inner diva shine (prizes to be awarded!). RSVP for your complimentary ticket while they last by clicking on the following link www.aliscomebackllc.com<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Crowdfunding - JULIE LEAVES THE NEST [Julie Leaves the Nest Promo]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Julie is getting married! Her mom Esther could use a little help producing Julie's perfect storybook wedding. The Bride is registered at Go Fund Me. Please send cash in lieu of presents<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. It would be a blessing. JULIE LEAVES THE NEST is written by John Aaron and is being produced by WONDER PICTURES. sheri ratick stroud (Julie's "mother" and film producer) had her "meet cute" with John at a WIFV networking coffee! Save the Date Doc Rdtble: Trailer Night - November 9 An opportunity to network, share successes and challenges in documentary filmmaking, and provide feedback to several filmmakers on their trailers. This meeting is being organized by WIFV's Documentary Roundtable Partner, Docs In Progress. Monday, November 9 at 6:30 pm FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public Registration will open soon on the Docs in Progress website. This is an online gathering. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. One-on-One Script Critiques Case Study: FAITH BA$ED - November 10 Conversation w/Catherine Hardwicke - November 17 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/1209f81e-f9f1-4d0b-b797-492ba…] One-on-One Script Critiques Submission Deadline We have an opportunity for eight screenwriters to have their scripts read and critiqued by Catherine Hand and Laurie Scheer. Scripts need to be submitted by November 10. Critiques will be scheduled between writer and reader before mid-December. RSVP and Reviewer Bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. SUBMISSION DEADLINE November 10 $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> FAITH BA$ED Case Study Luke Barnett, screenwriter for FAITH BA$ED will present a case study on how he, director Vincent Masciale, and frequent collaborator Tanner Thomason pulled the film together and got their cast. RSVP and Panelist Bio here.<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Tuesday, November 10, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Conversation with Catherine Hardwicke We are honored to have Catherine Hardwicke share her experiences as a production designer, writer, and director with ScriptDC attendees. Film critic Ann Hornaday will moderate the conversation. RSVP and Panelist Bios here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Tuesday, November 17, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> All ScriptDC programs are online webinars. You will be sent the login link with your registration confirmation email. January - Producing Workshops - featuring two workshops with Maureen Ryan! February - It's Up to You! Afternoon Networking - November 12 [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/b89b92a6-dbd3-40f2-a7e2-64a87…] The afternoon Happy Hours are a chance to see new faces and discuss what's on your mind. Bring your own beverage! Collaborations have already been formed. Thursday, November 12 at 4:30 pm RSVP here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. Articles of Interest [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] Co-Director Lisa Cortés on Voting Rights Past & Present in “All In: The Fight for Democracy”<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> -The Credits Women Aren’t “Opting Out” of the Work Force. They’re Being Forced Out<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> -Ms. Magazine Member Benefit Highlights kweliTV [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/ff3f372b-6556-4d93-a993-9a22d…] kweliTV allows you to discover and celebrate black stories from around the world through curated independent films, documentaries, web series, kids programming, news, and events/live experiences. 98% of our films have been official selections at film festivals and more than half are award-winning. Did you know that 60% of our revenue goes to our 300+ content creators every quarter? A large portion of your subscription supports the filmmakers who create the content you watch on kweliTV! WIFV members receive a 20% discount on the monthly subscription. Go to the WIFV Member Benefits Hub<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> for the necessary discount code and more info. WIFV Member Benefits Hub [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/985e48a0-ba71-4f15-9cd2-3512e…] WIFV provides a member-only web page on wifv.org <http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> that features all of your membership benefits. You are able to access discount codes and take advantage of special savings on that members' only page. Current member benefits include discounts with The Actors Center, Arlo Hotels, Barbizon Lighting Company, BNC Finance, Front Row Insurance, Future Media Concepts, KITSPLIT, kweliTV, MyDVDTransfer, My Eye Dr., and OAS Federal Credit Union. To access the WIFV Member Benefit page, click here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Just make sure you remember your login information! Support WIFV [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/a5834116-de5a-4e23-966b-ca7f8…] [https://mlsvc01-prod.s3.amazonaws.com/d763b936001/127710f9-c7e7-44b1-94e2-7…]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> Your contribution helps new documentary films grow! Donate here<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…>. Your generosity has supported the work of Susanne Coates, Charles Cohen, Emily Cohen, Betsy Cox, Susan Donnelly, Stephanie Flores-Koulish, Kristin Reiber Harris, Katie Lannigan, Kimberly McFarland, Krystal Tingle, and Emily Wathen on a variety of topics. Thank you!! Applications for the 2021 Seed Fund Grant will open in Spring 2021. [https://files.constantcontact.com/d763b936001/c447f738-8534-4d03-8610-55cef…]<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> THANK YOU! We Learn When YOU Review Stories about us from people like you will help us make an even bigger impact in our community. Won't you help us raise visibility for our work by posting a brief story of your experience with us? All content will be visible to potential donors and volunteers. It's easy and only takes 3 minutes! Go here to get started!<http://r20.rs6.net/tn.jsp?f=0012vPkLQKK3j8mJq8MqnjC1YYwDDzCF3_Uw5MKqYbBsnOd…> THANKS to all of you who have already shared about our work. 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(no subject)
by A.M. Noel 01 Nov '20

01 Nov '20

Dear Geffiorey, Stuart and Elena, Is there anything that we as part of your parents life and yours could do for U? A.M. Noel +1646-939-1273

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Global Buzz Reminder
by ICA International 31 Oct '20

31 Oct '20

Reminder for entries This reminder is for the Global Buzz that will be published November 5th. 2020 (Please send your entries at least a day or more ahead) Please send all your entries by regular e-mail to: inform(a)ica-international.org with your entry as an attatchment. Send details of news items, training programmes, your peer to peer connections with other ICAs, any concerns you may have and of any events that are coming up at your location. Your report can be long or short, but remember that all other ICAs would really like to know about the things that matter where you are, and what you are doing as an ICA. Peter, for ICAI Communications Pour les entrées de rappel Ce rappel est à la Global Buzz qui sera publié le 5 Novembre 2020 (S'il vous plaît envoyez vos entrées au moins un jour à l'avance) Veuillez envoyer toutes vos entrées maintenant par courriel ordinaire à : inform(a)ica-international.org avec votre entrée comme un attatchment. Envoyer les détails des articles de nouvelles, des programmes de formation, vos connexions peer to peer avec d'autres CIAS, de toute préoccupation que vous pourriez avoir et de tous les événements qui sont à venir à votre emplacement. Votre rapport peut être longue ou courte, mais rappelez-vous que toutes les autres CIAS aimerait vraiment savoir à propos de choses qui importe où vous êtes et ce que vous faites comme une ICA. Recordatorio de las entradas Este aviso es para el Global Buzz que se publicarán 5 Noviembre 2020 (Favor de enviar sus entradas al menos con un día de antelación) Por favor envíe todos sus entradas ahora por correo electrónico a: inform(a)ica-international.org con su entrada como un archivo adjunto. Enviar detalles de noticias, programas de capacitación, el peer to peer las conexiones con otros convenios o acuerdos internacionales, las preocupaciones que usted pueda tener y de los eventos que se aproximan en su ubicación. El informe puede ser a corto o largo, pero hay que recordar que todos los demás convenios quisiera saber realmente sobre lo que realmente importa, y lo que están haciendo una ICA.

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ICA talks, colleagues, and methods
by Robertson Work 30 Oct '20

30 Oct '20

Dear ICA colleague, My book has just been published, THE CRITICAL DECADE 2020 - 2029: Calls for Ecological, Compassionate Leadership. It contains fourteen of my talks - five given at ICA events, four at UN events, and five others. The book has been kindly reviewed and endorsed by ICA colleagues Lynda Cock, Terry Bergdall, Jo Nelson, Ishu Subba, Joy Jinks, and Mary Kurian D'Souza. I thought that you might enjoy reading it. Over thirty ICA colleagues are mentioned in the book, which also promotes ToP. Here is the URL on Amazon.com: https://www.amazon.com/CRITICAL-DECADE-2020-Ecological-Compassionate-ebook/… THE CRITICAL DECADE 2020 - 2029: Calls for Ecological Compassionate Leadership - Kindle edition by Work, Robertson. Politics & Social Sciences Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com.<https://www.amazon.com/CRITICAL-DECADE-2020-Ecological-Compassionate-ebook/…> THE CRITICAL DECADE 2020 - 2029: Calls for Ecological Compassionate Leadership - Kindle edition by Work, Robertson. Download it once and read it on your Kindle device, PC, phones or tablets. Use features like bookmarks, note taking and highlighting while reading THE CRITICAL DECADE 2020 - 2029: Calls for Ecological Compassionate Leadership. www.amazon.com Amazon also has online sites in several other countries. So far, it is available as a Kindle eBook. You can read it for free on Kindle Unlimited or buy your own copy. The best reading is on the Kindle app which you can download for free and read on your computer, tablet, or cell phone. I will let you know when the paperback is available. Please stay safe and healthy, Rob ............................................. Author page for my books: https://www.amazon.com/Robertson-Work/e/B075612GBF

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Dick, when do you move into your monk’s cell at Greenrise? Ellen and Dick
by RICHARD HOWIE 29 Oct '20

29 Oct '20

Sent from my iPad > On Oct 28, 2020, at 12:37 PM, Richard Alton via OE <oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net> wrote: > > > Yes, Susan- there are some hard choices in life like what is more important my books or my art- moving back to the ICA Community, GreenRise Building and my monk's cell has made this a key issue in my life. > > Dick > >> On Tue, Oct 27, 2020 at 11:07 PM Susan Fertig via OE <oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net> wrote: >> I still remember the 5 or 6 quotes we had framed—one was his. I kept them on my wall for years and years, and they are still in my storage room with all the other wall art I have no space for in a 2-BR condo whose wall space is pretty much devoted to books! What a choice to have to make—books or art! I also had to forego the framed Constitution and telegram from the President and so forth dating from TM 76. Ah well. I can’t take it with me. >> >> >> >> Susan >> >> >> >> Susan Fertig-Dykes >> >> >> >> And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought . Isaiah 58:11 >> >> >> >> From: James Wiegel <jfwiegel(a)yahoo.com> >> Sent: Monday, October 26, 2020 9:44 PM >> To: Order Ecumenical Community <oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net> >> Cc: Susan Fertig <sfertig(a)blueskytech.us> >> Subject: Re: [Oe List ...] film about Teilhard de Chardin >> >> >> >> HI, Susan!! Thanks. A fine video intro! “For Teilhard, evolution is an adventure in love.” I never heard the term Technosapiens before, yet here I am, just finished a zoom book study, watching that video and now sending you love via email! >> >> Jim Wiegel >> >> “We are all time travelers journeying into the future. But let us make that future a place we want to visit. “ Stephen Hawking >> >> >> >> >> On Oct 26, 2020, at 7:53 AM, Susan Fertig via OE <oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net> wrote: >> >> >> >> Scroll down to get the actual article and links. (Wayyyy down—it is buried near the end.) >> >> >> >> <image001.jpg> >> >> >> >> Susan >> >> >> >> Susan Fertig-Dykes >> >> >> >> And the Lord shall guide thee continually, and satisfy thy soul in drought . Isaiah 58:11 >> >> >> >> From: WIFV <director(a)wifv.org> >> Sent: Monday, October 26, 2020 10:03 AM >> To: Susan Fertig <sfertig(a)blueskytech.us> >> Subject: WIFV Weekly Update: Oct 16 - Nov 1, 2020 >> >> >> >> Nothing Scary, Just Treats! Keep scrolling. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Welcome to WIFV's Weekly Update >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> The Monday Missive shares items of event reminders, crowdfunding campaigns, some of the week's top news stories, info on member benefits, and more! >> >> >> >> WIFV is placing a strong focus on our community with online programming and providing updated COVID-19 Resources. Make suggestions about programming and resources that WIFV should provide HERE. >> >> >> >> Have news to share? Send an email by Thursday to membership(a)wifv.org. >> >> >> >> This Week with WIFV >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Women's Career Accelerator Workshop - Oct 25 - 27 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> You've worked hard. Now it's time to take charge of your #leadership journey. Announcing the Women's Career Accelerator Workshop October 25-27 from #GALSNGEAR and Future Media Conferences. Expertly led, interactive sessions will focus on three keys to moving your career forward: a customized leadership framework, powering up your #negotiating skills (with past WIFV Board Member Susan Borke), and how to build your leadership #brand (with #GALSNGEAR Founder and WIFV Past President Amy DeLouise). Plus guest speakers, time to network, and a hot-seats Ask Me Anything rock star panel. $299 is a bargain for this investment in your leadership readiness--use code WIFV20 for $50 off for WIFV members! >> >> REGISTER NOW at http://bit.ly/WeLead20 - space is limited! >> >> >> >> October 26 DEADLINE WIFV Fiscal Sponsorship >> >> The WIFV Board of Directors is pleased to offer a fiscal sponsorship program to support the film and media projects of its members. The WIFV Fiscal Sponsorship Program provides limited financial and legal oversight for a project initiated independently by a filmmaker. That project must be non-commercial in nature, i.e. not produced solely for financial gain. Sponsored Projects are eligible to solicit and receive grants and tax-deductible contributions. Review the application checklist before applying. More info and submit here. >> >> >> >> Updo's for all Textures - October 26 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> QUICK UPDO'S ON ALL TEXTURE HAIR: Trendy hairstyles with natural and or extension hair Demo by Christie Love and Mika C. >> >> >> >> Monday, October 26, 6:30 pm >> >> FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public RSVP here >> >> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. >> >> >> >> Getting Into the Writers Room - October 27 >> >> >> >> Panel discussing the many ways of joining a television writers room! It isn't always a straight line and it isn't always pretty. It is dynamic and all about collaboration. Ligiah Villalobos will lead the discussion and be joined by Karyn Langhorne Folan and Paul Ruehl. They will share about competitions, studio-run professional opportunities, and results of hard work! >> >> RSVP and Panelist Bios here. >> >> >> >> Tuesday, October 27, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here >> >> You will be sent the login link with your registration confirmation email. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Afternoon Networking - October 29 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> The afternoon Happy Hours are a chance to see new faces and discuss what's on your mind. Bring your own beverage! Collaborations have already been formed. >> >> >> >> Thursday, October 29 at 4:30 pm RSVP here. >> >> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. >> >> >> >> Doc Distribution - October 29 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Yes, you can do the distribution of your documentary yourself! You will have been building an audience. You might even have the energy. But wouldn't you rather understand the eco-system for non-fiction distribution before you make any decisions? Panelists Mike Garrity, Peter Hamilton, Kate Pearson, and Ann Zamudio know public television, >> >> cable, festivals, and networks. RSVP and Panelist Bios here. >> >> >> >> Thursday, October 29, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here >> >> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. >> >> >> >> Animators: 3D Kitbashing - October 29 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> We will explore the use of ‘ready-made' 3D models to accelerate the ideas and concepts of storytelling. Photobashing has been around for a long time and is commonly used for concepting by artists and animators in many industries including Hollywood and gaming. Time is money. And with the proliferation of people and companies providing these 3D assets, often free or inexpensive, it is wonderful to have these sources at our fingertips 24 hours a day. Troy Benesch will show how he uses kitbashing for his personal projects and incorporates it into his workflow and share his favorite sources for these assets. RSVP and Panelist Bio here. >> >> >> >> Thursday, October 29, 6:30 pm FREE WIFV Members / $10 Public RSVP here >> >> This is an online event. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. >> >> >> >> Next Week with WIFV >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Directors Rdtble: RADIUM GIRLS Directors - Nov 2 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> We are delighted to be able to provide an opportunity for you to meet Lydia Dean Pilcher (Producer/ Director) and Ginny Mohler (Writer/Director) of the newly-released RADIUM GIRLS. Trailer available here. You are encouraged to purchase a ticket and watch this film well in advance of the discussion on November 2. Panelist bios here. >> >> >> >> Purchase your $12.00 movie ticket to watch RADIUM GIRLS here: >> >> >> >> Monday, November 2 at 6:30 pm Roundtable is FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public >> >> RSVP here. This is an online program. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. >> >> >> >> Morning Networking - November 3 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> You bring the coffee, we bring the colleagues! >> >> >> >> Tuesday, November 3 at 9:30 am >> >> RSVP here. This is an online gathering. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. >> >> >> >> Writing from Outside the Centers - November 3 >> >> >> >> We want to dispel the myth that you have to live Los Angeles or New York to write scripts that get produced or even to participate in a collaborative writing experience. Join this conversation with Megan Holley, Harold Jackson III, and film critic Leslie Combermale to learn otherwise! RSVP and Panelist Bios here. >> >> >> >> Tuesday, November 3, 6:30 pm $15 WIFV Members / $30 Public RSVP here >> >> Election results can't be announced before 8:00 pm and you don't want to miss this discussion! >> >> >> >> All ScriptDC programs are online webinars. You will be sent the login link with your registration confirmation email. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Protections for You & Your Media - November 4 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> If you're a journalist or an activist creating media in today's polarized political climate, it can feel fraught. Is the government going to target you if you create critical media? Will people with opposing views harass you? Will they threaten you or publish your information publicly ("doxxing")? Join us for a panel on the various ways media makers can protect themselves legally, technologically, and physically, as well as external resources that can be tapped for creators facing government scrutiny or online harassment. >> >> Panelists include: Dr. Gabriella Coleman, Jilisa Milton JD, MSW, and Cheryl Jacobs Crim. See panelist bios here >> >> >> >> Wednesday, November 4 at 6:30 pm RSVP here. >> >> $10 WIFV Members / $20 Public This is an online gathering. You will receive the login link with your registration confirmation. This event is limited to ten people. >> >> >> >> One Woman, One Vote Film Festival Closes Nov 3 >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> To celebrate the centennial of the 19th amendment winning women the vote and continue to bring women's voices front and center, the 2020 One Woman One Vote Festival (OWOV) and Women Make Movies (WMM) invite you to join us in a nationwide initiative -- the 2020 One Woman One Vote Film Festival, a curated collection of films for you to create your own online film event, and four online national screening events to encourage, inspire and empower women everywhere to use their power for change. The collection titles are available at no charge through November 3, 2020. For more information visit 2020owovfest.org. >> >> >> >> Members to Support >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> REDISCOVERING FIRE: The Evolution of Teilhard de Chardin, >> >> produced by Mary and Frank Frost >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> It's time to introduce a new generation to Pierre Teilhard de Chardin – the paleontologist and visionary French Jesuit priest, whose relentless effort to reframe his beliefs in the light of evolution in the 20th Century led to a paradigm shift in the relationship of science and religion. He foresaw the evolutionary emergence of the internet, globalization, and today's trans-humanism movement, although he was perhaps overly optimistic in his vision. His legacy includes a strong environmental movement and fresh explorations in cosmic spirituality. >> >> The Teilhard de Chardin Project consists of a documentary for public television with PBS partner Oregon Public Broadcasting and a robust web portal serving viewers intrigued by the transformative ideas that motivated Teilhard. >> >> >> >> This film has completed principal photography and is seeking funding for post-production and distribution. Your contributions are gratefully received and are tax deductible to the fullest extent of the law. Your tax-deductible contribution may be made here. >> >> >> >> The Monday Missive features WIFV's fiscally sponsored projects on a weekly basis. Make sure to learn more about what WIFV members are doing! For more info on the WIFV fiscally-sponsored projects, click here. >> >> >> >> The Greatest Knockout Tickets Available >> >> >> >> CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF ALI'S RESOUNDING >> >> RETURN TO THE RING OCTOBER 26, 1970 >> >> Olayimika Cole cordially invites you to an exclusive virtual showcase event for our soon to be released film, ALI'S COMEBACK: the untold story on October 26, 2020. This interactive event “The Greatest Knockout”, which will show select scenes from the award-winning documentary. Also, afterward, a Q&A session with the film’s principals will take place. We have an all-star line-up including Khalilah Ali, Juan(John) Carlos, Edwin Moses and Billboard No1 artist Maxi Priest. Please dress 70s style and let your inner diva shine (prizes to be awarded!). RSVP for your complimentary ticket while they last by clicking on the following link www.aliscomebackllc.com >> >> >> >> Crowdfunding - JULIE LEAVES THE NEST >> >> >> >> >> >> Julie is getting married! Her mom Esther could use a little help producing Julie's perfect storybook wedding. The Bride is registered at Go Fund Me. Please send cash in lieu of presents. It would be a blessing. >> >> >> >> JULIE LEAVES THE NEST is written by John Aaron and is being produced by WONDER PICTURES. sheri ratick stroud (Julie's "mother" and film producer) had her "meet cute" with John at a WIFV networking coffee! >> >> >> >> Save the Date >> >> >> >> Doc Rdtble: Trailer Night - November 9 >> >> An opportunity to network, share successes and challenges in documentary filmmaking, and provide feedback to several filmmakers on their trailers. This meeting is being organized by WIFV's Documentary Roundtable Partner, Docs In Progress. >> >> >> >> Monday, November 9 at 6:30 pm FREE for WIFV Members / $10 Public >> >> Registration will open soon on the Docs in Progress website. This is an online gathering. 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Just make sure you remember your login information! >> >> >> >> Support WIFV >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Your contribution helps new documentary films grow! Donate here. Your generosity has supported the work of Susanne Coates, Charles Cohen, Emily Cohen, Betsy Cox, Susan Donnelly, Stephanie Flores-Koulish, Kristin Reiber Harris, Katie Lannigan, Kimberly McFarland, Krystal Tingle, and Emily Wathen on a variety of topics. Thank you!! >> >> >> >> Applications for the 2021 Seed Fund Grant will open in Spring 2021. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> THANK YOU! We Learn When YOU Review >> >> Stories about us from people like you will help us make an even bigger impact in our community. Won't you help us raise visibility for our work by posting a brief story of your experience with us? All content will be visible to potential donors and volunteers. It's easy and only takes 3 minutes! Go here to get started! >> >> >> >> THANKS to all of you who have already shared about our work. Because of you, WIFV has been a Top-Rated media nonprofits on Great NonProfits since 2012! >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> WIFV is grateful for the support of its sponsors, corporate supporters, and contributors. >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Women in Film & Video >> >> 202-429-9438 >> >> membership(a)wifv.org >> >> Contact Us >> >> ‌ ‌ ‌ >> >> >> >> >> >> >> >> Women in Film & Video | 4000 Albemarle St NW Suite 305, Washington, DC 20016 >> >> Unsubscribe sfertig(a)blueskytech.us >> >> Update Profile | About our service provider >> >> Sent by director(a)wifv.org powered by >> >> >> >> Try email marketing for free today! >> >> >> >> _______________________________________________ >> OE mailing list >> OE(a)lists.wedgeblade.net >> http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net >> >> _______________________________________________ >> OE mailing list >> OE(a)lists.wedgeblade.net >> http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net > > > -- > Richard H. T. Alton > One Earth Film Fest ( OEFF) > Green Community Connections > Interfaith Green Network > T: 773.344.7172 > richard.alton(a)gmail.com > *Save the Date! One Earth Film Festival 2021, March > http:www.oneearthfilmfestival.org > > Make Plain the Vision, Habakkuh 2:2 > Won't you be my neighbor? > _______________________________________________ > OE mailing list > OE(a)lists.wedgeblade.net > http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net

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Re: [Oe List ...] Celebration of Life of Roxana Harper
by Nancy Lanphear 29 Oct '20

29 Oct '20

Dear Geoff, Elena and Stuart, May we share in your grief of loss and in the joy of having Roxana in our lives over the past many years. She was a wonderful Mother, a loving and dearly loved wife, and as I knew her, as a precious friend. We laughed and cried together, we shared the closeness of our Lunch Bunch, we grieved the loss of friends side by side. A couple of weeks ago she suggested that we ( it’s hard to know who is included in this WE) In consultation with you, (her children) plan her memorial service, perhaps later after the pandemic. Please know that you are supported in your journey with its sadness, gratitude and memories of your amazing family. I’m holding you in my thoughts, prayers and heart. With love and deep connections. 💕🎶💕 Nancy > , On Oct 28, 2020, at 12:06 PM, Roxana Harper via OE <oe(a)lists.wedgeblade.net> wrote: > > After a severe case of shingles and diminishing physical and emotional reserves, Roxana Harper passed away in her sleep this morning as she wished: in her own bed, with her family surrounding her. When we asked her last night what she thought the afterlife would be like she answered, “Marvelous.” > > Go with God, Mom, and be at peace. Know that you are loved. > > > -Geoffrey, Stuart, Elena > _______________________________________________ > OE mailing list > OE(a)lists.wedgeblade.net > http://lists.wedgeblade.net/listinfo.cgi/oe-wedgeblade.net

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Re: [Oe List ...] OE Digest, Vol 103, Issue 21
by Lawrence Philbrook 29 Oct '20

29 Oct '20

Geoffrey, Stuart, and Elena This seems to be a year when many wonderful people from my life are passing Nan Grow and your mom Roxana, women who were great spirits and in different moments were significant caregivers to me. Evelyn was going through some old pictures last week and your dad, Gordon popped up so we talked a bit about him and about Roxanna. My experience with Marge,my mom, it is a loss that can not be filled and yet it is the right time and a moment of peace. We send you our love. if there is anything we can do please let us know. With love and respect, Larry and Evelyn

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Trial of the Chicago Seven
by James Wiegel 23 Oct '20

23 Oct '20

We watched this Netflix movie about Chicago in 1968. Was good. Tom Hayden was one of the defendants — wasn’t he somewhat connected to the Christian Faith and Life Community in Austin? Also mention of the “Port Huron Statement” of the SDS — did Joe or someone help with writing that? Also several mentions of the “Cultural Revolution”. Police and protestor scenes were chilling ... Watched with daughter, son in law and grand daughter. I vaguely recall an evening going to Lincoln Park and sitting in on something about guerilla theater. Jim Wiegel “We are all time travelers journeying into the future. But let us make that future a place we want to visit. “ Stephen Hawking

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10/22/2020, Progressing Spirit, Matthew Sydal: “Liminal Grief”; Spong revisited
by Ellie Stock 22 Oct '20

22 Oct '20

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!important;line-height:125% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 h4{ font-size:16px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 .yiv2923493945mcnBoxedTextContentContainer .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent, #yiv2923493945 .yiv2923493945mcnBoxedTextContentContainer .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent p{ font-size:14px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templatePreheader{ display:block !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templatePreheader .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent, #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templatePreheader .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent p{ font-size:12px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateHeader .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent, #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateHeader .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent p{ font-size:16px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateBody .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent, #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateBody .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent p{ font-size:14px !important;line-height:150% !important;} }@media only screen and (max-width:480px){ #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateFooter .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent, #yiv2923493945 #yiv2923493945templateFooter .yiv2923493945mcnTextContent p{ font-size:12px !important;line-height:150% !important;} } | | | | View this email in your browser | | | | | | | | | | | | | | “Liminal Grief” | | | | | | | | | | Essay by Rev. Matthew Syrdal, MDiv. October 22, 2020 ............Those who will not slip beneath ............the still surface on the well of grief, ............turning down through its black water ............to the place we cannot breathe, ............will never know the source from which we drink, ............the secret water, cold and clear, ............nor find in the darkness glimmering, ............the small round coins, ............thrown by those who wished for something else. - David Whyte, The Well of Grief As the leaves turn color and fall into the ground, and the migratory patterns and bird songs slowly shapeshift into a dirge, as the sap sinks into its source, we might listen closely to our bodies and psyche. If we allow ourselves the space to pay attention we can feel the shift towards the liminal time of fall. Fall in-between the erotic vigor and embodiment of summer, and the pale, dormant latency of winter. We seem to have been abducted into liminal time as a culture without fully understanding why or what it really is. The word ‘liminal’ comes from the word limen, a threshold between worlds, like crossing a doorway into new space or territory, where we find ourselves no longer here, but not yet there - betwixt and between. ........................The truth is, liminal time is really uncomfortable. There is a quiet, but very real, temptation to not allow ourselves to fully feel into how uncomfortable liminal time really is. Like Noah, or Utnapishtim perhaps, we are sailing together through liminal time on several different levels: culturally, ecologically, and mythically. These ambiguous losses we are experiencing include the very ways we make meaning as a people. The god-images, centers of ultimate meaning, value, and power at the very core of our cultural identity, are decomposing. It's like kneeling on the ground frantically sifting through this 'heap of broken images’, to borrow a phrase from T.S. Eliot. Under the still surface of the ‘well of grief’ are feelings that we haven't allowed ourselves to fully feel, deep anger, wounded rage, grief, longing. We might feel strong resistance to one another or whole groups of people, to polarizing language, to anything that feeds our distrust in the human project. A stark numbness or a wallowing sense of lostness are symptoms of our disorientation. These emotions are all important indicators that we are crossing a liminal threshold together and we find ourselves in tomb-time, an often neglected, repressed, or glossed over phase of the death and resurrection journey. The great pause of the pandemic might be showing us that we have been too steeped in “Easter Sunday consciousness" as a culture, without passing through the agony of Good Friday, or the death of Holy Saturday. This liminal unraveling of control and identity can be terrifying and painful, and everything seems to conspire to pull us back up to the surface of urgency. As we approach the festival of Samhain, All Souls Day, or Hallowtide we are reminded that tomb-time is also womb-time, when the veil is thinnest. For the Celts, sacred wells were indicative of potent and pregnant space. The wells of this potent water have always been suppressed, covered over with a sign marked ‘threatening’ and ‘dangerous’ in a culture that has lost its way. Sharon Blackie, author of If Women Rose Rooted, writes, “During its early days the Christian church, finding it impossible to forbid people to visit their sacred places, developed a strategy of taking them over. It built chapels and baptistries over the wells; it walled them in. And so there are many wells which, like Madron, are named now for the saints — but under their shallow surface ripples lie the deep, clear traces of far older stories.” It is important to understand the significance of the underworldly imagery of the sacred well in its relation to the kingdom (queendom) of God. In Jesus’ teachings, the kingdom is never defined, only alluded to — pointed to — by way of metaphor, allegory, parable — the language of dreams and mythos. To say that the kingdom “is like,” is to illustrate by way of relationship and, more deeply, story. The kingdom is really the story of our unique and ultimate relationship with the world, revealed in mythic time. For Jesus there is a hiddenness to the working of the Otherworld that is already present in this world. The working of the kingdom is hidden, almost imperceptible. It is surprising — often invasive like a mustard seed, or offensive even dismantling, like the woman who hid yeast in a lump of dough. The two worlds touch in the person and actions of Jesus. The living power of the Otherworld overflows and floods like a wellspring into this world. As David Whyte says, “To re-member the otherworld in this one is to live in your true inheritance.” Jesus’ teachings of “entering” or participating in the kingdom is an invitation to re-enter, to re-member the primeval story of Creation itself. Jesus reenacts the original, primordial powers of Creation inaugurating the kingdom through human words and acts from a deeper mythic reality. The image runs deep in our collective imagination. The word itself conveys so much more than the source of a stream or a spring. It signifies a deeper meaning, the source of life itself. A wellspring is the source of continual abundance, and is the reason why wells, in the same way as rivers and lakes, are recognized the world over as sacred by almost every culture on the earth throughout every age. John O’Donohue writes, “Wells were seen as threshold places between the deeper, dark, unknown subterranean world and the outer world of light and form… Wells were reverenced as special apertures through which divinity flowed forth.” But the source of life, even divinity, like all things, must be cared for, cultivated and tended. The sacred well runs deep in Celtic tradition, as Sharon Blackie tells the story in If Women Rose Rooted: ............‘In the old days, as I was saying, the kingdom of Logres was rich ............and beautiful, and the land offered nourishment for all, for it was ............properly tended and cared for. It’s a contract you see, people and ............the land. You care for it, and it cares for you. The source of the ............kingdom’s life, the life-giving blood which surged in its veins, was ............the sacred water of the wells, which flowed up out of the deep ............potent waters of the Otherworld. Christianity, like other world religions in their zenith of empire building, adapted to people’s need to visit their old sacred places, and would build chapels and baptistries over the wells to wall them in. Ancient baptistries were often built underground beneath the nave. The font was constructed in stone descending into a natural source of water — “living water.” These vestiges of a much older nature-based form of ritual and sacrament, were now enculturated into a Western Latin ethos in which the wells were renamed after the saints. But under the surface ripples, Blackie writes, “Lie the deep, clear traces of far older stories.” ............The wells were tended by maidens, and these maidens were the ............Voices of the Wells. And this is how they served: if a traveler in ............need should pass by a well in those times, a well-maiden would ............appear and, if he asked reasonably, offer him the food he liked ............best, and a drink of well-water from her golden grail. This gift ............was given to all, freely given in the spirit of service to the land. Today, many are feeling the loss of the voices of the wells. There is an ‘as yet’ untapped reservoir of anger and grief over the suppression of the sacred feminine and the generative matrix of a wild world that has birthed its human aspect. Grief felt perhaps as a crack in the source of life itself. In the Westernized world we are experiencing a spiritual thirst of mythic dimensions, a collective longing for a deep draught of that life-giving water with none to offer us true drink. Perhaps we, like Jesus, are called to re-member, or rediscover mythic consciousness. To live our lives and our life together as a poem, a prophecy, a narrative that runs counter to the dominant story that has oppressed and exploited all that is deeply human and more-than-human. To live as if our actions and words inhabit this hidden realm, this primordial queendom, beneath the shallow torrent of political life and the pirated and empty storerooms of religion. What would it look like to compassionately bridge our common anxieties, fears and injustices as an isolated and wounded people with the deep well of the life of the soul through attending to grief, to the land, and to ceremony? ~ Rev. Matthew Syrdal, MDiv. Read online here About the Author Rev. Matthew Syrdal MDiv. lives in the front range of Colorado with his beautiful family. He is an ordained pastor in the Presbyterian church (USA), founder and lead guide of WilderSoul and Church of Lost Walls and co-founder of Seminary of the Wild. Matt speaks at conferences and guides immersive nature-based experiences around the country. In his years of studying ancient Christian Rites of Initiation, world religions, anthropology, rites-of-passage and eco- psychology Matt seeks to re-wild what it means to be human. His work weaves in myth and ceremony in nature as a way for people to enter into conversation with the storied world in which they are a part. Matt’s passion is guiding others in the discovery of “treasure hidden in the field” of their deepest lives cultivating deep wholeness and re-enchantment of the natural world to apprentice fully and dangerously to the kingdom of god. Matt is a coach and a certified Wild Mind nature-based human development guide through the Animas Valley Institute and is currently training to become a soul initiation guide through the SAIP program. | | | | | | | | Question & Answer Q: By Beverly I keep hearing about “”Centering prayer” but I’m not sure what this is exactly. Can you give me a definition or where I can read about it? A: By Skylar Wilson Dear Beverly, The name “Centering Prayer” was taken from Thomas Merton's description of contemplative prayer. Contemplative prayer is considered to be a much older and more traditional practice. Essentially, any prayer that is focused entirely on the presence of God. Centering Prayer is a form of meditation as well as the act of creating space for being rather than thinking. It’s being present to stillness. It’s listening with one’s whole heart and body. It’s opening to the most intimate and direct experience of the divine. Centering Prayer is a mode of experiencing oneself and the world as one. It’s about opening to our inner experience without judgement, recognizing that God is, if anything, the emptiness and stillness found within and beyond all ideas, thoughts and things. The modern concept of Centering Prayer in Christianity can be followed back to several books published by three Trappist monks of St. Joseph's Abbey in the 1970s: Fr. William Meninger, Fr. M. Basil Pennington and Abbot Thomas Keating. ~ Skylar Wilson, MA Read and share online here About the Author Skylar Wilson, MA is the founder of Wild Awakenings, a conscious community of change-makers dedicated to the thriving of Earth, life, and humanity. He has led wilderness rites of passage journeys as well as ecological restoration teams for 18 years, specializing in creating sacred wilderness immersion experiences and interfaith ceremonies. Skylar is the cofounder and co-director of the Order of the Sacred Earth, a network of mystic warriors and activists dedicated to being the best lovers and defenders of the Earth that we can be. Skylar is the coauthor of the book by the same title as well as the co-host, with Jennifer Berit, of the podcast: "Our Sacred Earth" on Unity online radio. Skylar works closely with schools and organizations including the Stepping Stones Project in Berkeley, CA over the last 8 years while guiding organization-wide retreats, mentoring youth, group leaders, parents and elders. He also produces transformational events for thousands of people around the country including the Cosmic Mass, an intercultural healing ritual that builds community through dancing and the arts. | | | | | | | | Please continue to send us your feedback… we are listening. We aim to give voice to many different perspectives that are relevant and inspiring along this spiritually progressing path. We are not here to tell you what to believe or how to act. We are here to support your journey, to share and learn together.Thank you for being a part of this community! | | | | | | Join our FB community today! Spread the word, share with friends. Thanks! | | | | | | | | Bishop John Shelby Spong Revisited The Origins of the New Testament, Part XIII: The Theology of Paul as Revealed in Romans Essay by Bishop John Shelby Spong January 28, 2010 Paul of Tarsus was a first century man. He thought in categories consistent with the world view of his time. He believed that he lived in a three-tiered universe over which God reigned from a heavenly throne just above the sky. Paul had never heard of a weather front, a germ or a virus. He viewed both the weather patterns and human sickness as being divine punishment sent from this external, supernatural God and based on our deserving. One should not, therefore, read the first century Paul as if he spoke from the vantage point of eternal truth. That is what biblical literalism does. The Bible, which many Christians call “the Word of God,” includes letters that Paul wrote. They are personal, passionate, argumentative and sometimes even vindictive. Paul would probably be the most surprised person in the world, and the most disturbed, to learn that the words in his letters had been elevated by the people of the Christian Church to a realm in which they have achieved the position of ultimate authority in which Paul’s voice is actually confused with the voice of God. This is not to say, however, that Paul was without insight. He was a keen observer of human life and one who was a perceptive, even if an introverted, examiner of his own inner thought and being. Our task as modern interpreters of Paul is to separate Paul’s incredible insights into human life from the dated and thus distorting world view of his day. It is not an easy task, but it is a doable one. Paul was a human being with intense feelings. Prior to his conversion experience he was an uncompromising persecutor of the Christian movement. Following his conversion he was an uncompromising advocate for the Christian faith. While the object of his passion shifted dramatically his personality remained quite constant. Almost inevitably he interpreted both what he believed was the meaning of the claim of Jesus’ divinity and what he believed was the meaning of salvation out of his first century understanding of human life, and in the process he always universalized the lens through which he viewed his world and himself. One must, therefore, never forget the highly subjective nature of Paul’s insights. Paul was also a Jew. He had studied under the great rabbi Gamaliel. He identified himself as a Hebrew, a member of the tribe of Benjamin and a zealot for the Torah. Judaism was the tradition in which and through which he viewed all of life. Paul did nothing, certainly including his religious life, in a halfway or lukewarm fashion. We start to unravel this Pauline viewpoint first by looking at his understanding of the human situation. What does it mean to Paul to be human? From where comes the pain, the fear and the insecurity that marks human life? Paul was quite sure, out of his Jewish background, that human life was created in God’s image with God’s law written across the human heart. This human creature, who was in Paul’s mind almost divine, had fallen from that lofty status into what he called “sin.” It was, he believed, a cosmic fall that affected every human being, and it doomed all people to a life in bondage to the incalculable power of sin. So Paul, looking at all human life through his own experience, lamented: “We cannot do the things we want to do, indeed we do the very things that we do not want to do.” Sin for Paul was an alien power. “It is not I” who does these things, he offers defensively, but “sin that dwells within me.” We are not now and we cannot ever be, he stated, what we were created to be. The human impulse toward sin was, for Paul, so deep that it actually prompted the act of sinning. This impulse is not and cannot be part of nature, lest God be blamed for it, but it nonetheless holds human life in its power. Listen to the pathos in Paul’s words: “I delight in the law of God in my inmost nature, but I see in my members another law which is at war with the law of my mind and making me captive to the law that dwells in my members.” It almost sounds like schizophrenia, but that is how Paul perceived himself, and when he writes we hear his yearning to be freed from this state and his desire to be capable of directing his own life toward the purpose for which he believed he was created. To find the ability to do just that was for him the meaning of salvation, and it was this gift of salvation that he believed he had experienced in Jesus. Human life, which was, he thought, created for fellowship with God, instead has been estranged from God, divided within itself and separated from all others. His dream was to be made whole, to be at one with God. He sought a biblical explanation for this human reality in the creation story that, true to the mind set of his day, he assumed to be history and thus a divinely inspired analysis of the human condition. St. Augustine, the fourth century bishop of Hippo and the primary theologian in the first thousand years of Christian history, would take this Pauline insight and make it the basis for what is still called “traditional Christianity.” It was because of this Paul/Augustine line of thought that Christianity still today wallows in sin and traffics in guilt. The Protestant mantra, “Jesus died for my sins,” expresses it. So does the Catholic interpretation of the Mass as the constant reenactment of the moment in which Jesus overcame the sin of the world with his death on the cross. It was out of this mentality that guilt became the coin of the realm in institutional Christianity and that is how and why behavior control has become the primary activity of the Christian Church. When this “original sin” was tied by Augustine into sex and reproduction, the repression of sex became in Christianity an aspect of salvation. Celibacy and virginity became the higher paths. Repression, however, including sexual repression, never gives life. It rather creates victims. Christianity has become the major religion of victimization in the western world. Bad anthropology inevitably creates bad theology. Paul, perceiving what he believed was this fatal flaw in human nature, saw Jesus ultimately as the rescuer of the flawed ones. Since all human life shared in that flaw, salvation was a universal gift given to all, “to the Jews first but also to the Gentiles.” In this gift Paul believed that Christianity had the power to transcend all human divisions, including religious divisions, even the divisions created by the holiness of the Torah, the Jewish law, which excluded all who were not bound to the Torah. Salvation in his mind was that process in which human wholeness is offered to all. In Christ, he wrote, there is neither Jew nor Gentile, male nor female, bond nor free. Salvation was a call to a new humanity and it was this vision that compelled Paul to become the missionary to the Gentiles, the one charged with turning the message of the Jewish Jesus into the gift of salvation offered to the entire world. When he wrote his letter to the Church of Rome, he spelled out this point of view hoping that the Roman Christians would feel as strongly about this vocation as he did and would thus be willing to provide him with the means that he hoped would carry him and his missionary activities to Spain and thus to “the uttermost parts of the world.” Paul’s message was in this one sense profoundly true. There is about human life a sense of separation, of loneliness and a drive for survival that does indeed make us chronically self-centered, at war with our higher instincts. Paul’s way of understanding and dealing with that humanity was and is, however, profoundly mistaken. Indeed it is inoperative and, by literalizing this mistaken understanding, Christianity is today threatened with extinction. As post-Darwinians we now know that there never was a perfect creation. All life has evolved from a single cell into our present self-conscious, enormously complex human life, which is for the time being at least at the top of the evolutionary process. Since there was no perfect creation, then there could not have been a “fall” from perfection. One cannot fall from a status one has never possessed. If we have not fallen from perfection, we do not need to be saved, redeemed or rescued. So the way Jesus has traditionally been interpreted falls into irrelevance. One can only artificially resuscitate a dying form as long as the presuppositions under-girding that form are still believable. The human experience, however, still cries out for some other explanation of this experience. What is it? We are self-conscious creatures. All living things are survival oriented. Plants stretch to receive the light of the sun in order to live. Animals fight for life or flee danger in order to survive. Neither plant life nor animal life, however, is aware of its survival drive. Human beings are. When self-conscious creatures make their own survival their highest goal, they then organize their world around that need. That is what makes human life inevitably and universally self-centered, separated and cut off from others. We are our own worst enemy and we do violence to others in our drive to survive. This is not, however, because we have fallen into sin, as religious people still operating in a Pauline context continue to assert; it arises directly out of the given nature of our biological life. As still incomplete, evolving creatures we do not need to be “saved,” we need rather to be lifted to a new level of humanity, a new level of consciousness where we can live for others, give ourselves away in love for others and be empowered to become all that each of us can be. This is what salvation means. This is what Paul experienced in Jesus, but he was trapped inside the presuppositions of his first century, Jewish view of human life. He found in Jesus the power to accept himself, to love himself and to become himself. “Nothing,” he said, “nothing in all creation can separate us from the love of God which is in Christ Jesus.” Paul’s experience of human life was correct. His explanation was wrong. His experience of Christ as life-giving love was correct. His explanation of how that love was manifested in Jesus’ life was wrong. Next week, we will push this study of Romans to a new place and seek to translate Paul’s experience into our presuppositions. I hope you will join us then. ~ John Shelby Spong | | | | | | | | Announcements The power to improve the lives of others is to many a sacred privilege and one we take seriously at ProgressiveChristianity.org. Such as bringing your Progressing Spirit Newsletter every week! Please help us to continue our work by donating today! | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | |

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