Spring 2008 Programs
The following list of programs is in alphabetical order by title.
Unless otherwise indicated, all programs are free and open to all.
ART: Awareness, Reconciliation, Transformation. Phil Schaafsma.
Phil Schaafsma and the artists whose work is on display in the Keeler Gallery from February 18-March 23 will examine the current renaissance in religious art and present examples of artists working as creative catalysts in today's world. How can art lead to personal growth and spiritual insight and become a reconciling force in our contemporary culture? Artists will discuss their work as creative visual ministry and their roles as spiritual cultural catalysts. Phil Schaafsma is owner of Eyekons Gallery. Artists Rick Beerhorst, Jonathon Quist, Julie Quinn and Jim Fissel will participate. (SS)
March 2, 9, and 16. Sundays, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
The Beguines. Sr. Mary Navarre O.P., Sr. Julia Moore O.P.
In the middle ages, thousands of lay people formed their own spiritual communities of men and women to lead more spiritual lives. This fascinating talk is illustrated with slides taken by the presenters in their travels to the European Beguine sites. Sr. Mary Navarre, O.P. and Sr. Julia Moore O. P. are Grand Rapids Dominicans from Marywood. (SS)
April 13. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Cinema and Soul.
"Cinema and Soul" is a monthly film discussion series that features screenings of thought-provoking and soul-changing films followed by thoughtful discussions led by various discussion leaders. Organized by Mark Walstrom and Matthew Cockrum, this series should provide food for thought and nourishment for souls, as well as a treat for film buffs.
Sundays, 1:00-4:00 p.m. (SS) $5.00 donation suggested.
January 13 "Dirty Filthy Love." The British indie DIRTY FILTHY LOVE offers a quirky spin on the standard romantic-comedy formula. Mark Furness (Michael Sheen) is a thirtysomething architect whose marriage and career are threatened by his increasing obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette's syndrome. Mark turns to his doctor for help but instead meets a kindred soul.
February 10: "Waking Life." More than food for thought, Waking Life is a
philosophical and visual banquet for the mind. From scenes of immolation, floating and tango, to micro-waved burritos and existentialism, Linklater has created a provocative film.
March 9: "What Dreams May Come" - This Oscar winning 1998 film follows a man searching for meaning after the death of his wife and children. Amazing cinematography and special effects add to this dramatic exploration of life and after-life. Stars Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., Annabella Sciorra and Max von Sydow. Rated PG-13 for thematic elements involving death and some disturbing images and language.
Circle of Crones. Johanna Sizick, Chair, Croning Committee.
Once it was believed Mother Earth was the mysterious power that woke everything to life. Women were respected healers. The word crone meant "crown" and a Crone was called Wise Woman, hag meant "holy one," and saga meant "female sage." Once, elders were venerated and respected. During the spring season, we recognize women 56 years and older as Crones. This series involves several levels of participation. (For information, call Johanna Sizick, 1-616-475-5771.) (I)
March 8, Session 1: "What Does it Mean to be a Crone?"
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Family Life Center, 1256 Walker Ave, Grand Rapids MI 49504. All women invited.
April 6, Session 2: "Orientation for Candidates."
Sunday, 1:30-3:30. At Fountain Street Church. Candidates only.
April 27, Session 3: "Community Croning Ceremony."
Sunday, 2:00-4:00 p.m., at Fountain Street Church. All women invited.
Come Sit With Us.
Experience the many benefits of regular meditation practice with a weekly silent meditation group. Meetings will begin with a half-hour meditation each week, followed by informal discussion when time allows. This will be an opportunity not to exercise the mind but to rest and transcend it. Facilitator: Dr. Patrick Duiven. Every Wednesday, noon-1 p.m., in chapel. (I)
Connections.
Connections is Fountain Street's new ministry of small group engagement launched in March, 2007. Each small group (6-10 people) meets at the church or in someone's home a couple of times am onth for nine sessions. Each group creates its own behavioral covenant and service covenant to the church and the larger community. All groups share a common format and the values an Open Mind, Loving Heart and Welcoming and Helping Hands. Call Rev. Matthew Cockrum for further information on how to connect with a group. 459-8386. (I)
Cosmos. David Fideler.
The Greek word cosmos cannot be translated into a single English word, but refers to an equal presence of order and beauty. In this slide-illustrated meditation-lecture originally developed for the Roger Chaffee planetarium, author and editor David Fideler will explore the beauty and harmony of the physical world that forms our connection with the underlying fabric of life. (SS)
May 4. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Cultivating Quiet: A Brief Introduction to Buddhism and Meditation. Eric Mullen.
What can this ancient oriental religion teach us about walking calmly through the hectic modern world? Eric Mullen, Assistant Director of Student Activities at Grand Rapids Community College, wil share his insights on the Buddhist Middle Path. (SS, I)
Sunday, February 3, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Diversity in the Church and the World: Queer Theory in Practice. Rev. Matthew
Cockrum.
This 5-session course is a follow-up to Weaving the Fabric of Diversity, offered in the fall months. Areas of oppression for special focus will be racism and ableism. We will also explore an introduction to the academic field of Queer Theory and examine its potential implications for ways of thinking about diversity and social justice work in the church and the world. Please contact Rev. Matthew Cockrum to pre-register at 616-459-8386 ext. 215 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Mondays, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
March 24, April 7, 21, May 5, 19.
Enhancement of Committed Relationships. Carla Miller and George Zuiderveen.
Information to follow
Exploring Beliefs and Questions.
An ongoing group-directed open discussion of beliefs and questions. Free expression of ideas is encouraged. Topics vary. For further information, contact Bob or Sherron Collins, 1-616-846-3912. (SS) Meets every Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a. m.
Friday Morning Poetry Group.
Reading and discussion of various poets in a small group setting. For further information, contact Louisa Nally, 874-8150. Every Friday, 10 a.m. Room 108.
Generation to Generation.
"Generation to Generation" is geared towards those interested in exploring the bible stories being used in the Character School's Voyage of discovery. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or an interested "other," you are welcome to explore the timeless themes we find in the Jewish and Christian scriptures. Rev. Matthew Cockrum, facilitator. (F)
Sundays, 9:45-10:45
January 6: "Jesus's Baptism, Temptation and Beatitudes."
February 17: "The Cross and Religious Symbolism of the World."
March 9: "Pentecost and Corinthians: Communities in Conflict."
The Gospel of Mozart. Rev. Fred Wooden.
While composers and painters do not use words to communicate, they do communicate. Mozart had much to say about sin and salvation and he does it through his operas. We'll look at how he takes the words of others and through his music sends his own message about matters spiritual. (SS) Wednesday evenings, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
February 6: The Marriage of Figaro
February 13: Cosi Fan Tutte
February 20: Don Giovanni
February 27: The Magic Flute
The Heart of Intelligence. Ken Porter and Fenna Diephuis.
We humans, with our sophisticated cerebral hardware, like to think of ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution, yet we have tremendous difficulty understanding each other, and visit pointless suffering upon ourselves and each other as a result. Fortunately, the heart offers us an ancient wisdom with the power to shift human consciousness. This two-part presentation will offer you tangible ways to access the vast and sacred intelligence your heart holds within the memory of Itself. Ken and Fenna are both Certified Somatic Therapists, with individual private practices offering massage and bodywork, as well as somatic therapy groups and workshops. They both have studied Shamanic Counseling, Transformational Bodywork, and Non-Violent Communication. (I)
April 20, 27. Sundays, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Inquirer's Lunch. Paula Roelands and staff.
What is this "Fountain Street" all about? This class is an introduction to what Fountain Street Church represents and has to offer to individuals seeking to find their spiritual paths. Liberal theology, history and religious and spiritual expectations are among the topics to be shared in an open forum with the clergy staff of the church. Led by clergy staff and open to all, this class is designed to answer basic questions about Fountain Street Church and allow you to assess the possibilities of this becoming your individual spiritual religious home. Materials and lunch provided. We kindly request your reservation for meal planning. Childcare is also available with advance notice. Contact Paula Roelands, 459-8386, ext. 225. (F)
Sundays, 12:30-2:00 p.m.
First offering: January 27.(A follow-up series with potluck lunch will continue the course on February 3, 10, 17.)
Second offering: March 9. (Follow up sessions for this meeting will be on March 16, 30 and April 6).
Third offering: May 4. (Follow up sessions for this program: May 11, 25 and June 1.)
Jazz and Spirituality: Dave Brubeck. Dr. Paul Brewer.
Jazz master Dave Brubeck, who has appeared live several times at Fountain Street Church, composed some of "cool" jazz's most memorable standards. In addition, he wrote and performed much spiritually-themed music, using his unique time signatures to unlock the world within. Paul Brewer is on the faculty of Aquinas College and Interlochen Fine Arts Camp. (SS)
April 6. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth.
The groundbreaking PBS series Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth was first aired 20 years ago, but the programs still have the ability to evoke our sense of wonder at the rich traditions of world mythology. This series will air one film per month followed by a discussion of how mythology can influence our lives in the modern world. Gary Eberle, author and chairman of the adult religious education committee, will lead the discussion. (SS)
Monday evenings, 7-9 p.m.
March 17: "Sacrifice and Bliss"
April 28: "Love and the Goddess."
May 12: "Masks of Eternity."
The Life of Moses: Three Stages of Human Development. Rabbi Albert Lewis
What can the ancient Hebrew scriptures teach of modern human life and development? Rabbi Albert Lewis will explore the life journey of Moses as a model of growth through the lifespan. Rabbi Lewis is Rabbi Emeritus of Temple Emmanuel, and director Emeritus of Aquinas College's Emeritus Program. He is also a regular columnist for the Grand Rapids Press and has been deeply involved in the Grand Rapids community for over 30 years. (SS)
January 20, Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Mapping the Sacred Sound Universe. Gwen Faasen.
This class will explore how we experience sound and how what we hear is the result of a dance between the world and how we are made. We organize our reality out of this dance. Music as a language of vibration is one of the best means we have for thinking about the fabric of the mind that resides everywhere. Sound reminds us of the profound physical interconnectedness that is our true environment. Ethnomusicologist and performer Gwen Faasen has traveled the world in search of sacred music, and performs as a member of Vox Angelica. (I)
May 11. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
(Not) For Lovers Only: A Brief History of Romantic Love. Gary Eberle.
Author Robert Johnson said that romantic love forms one of the most durable constructs of the western mind. In this slide-illustrated discussion, author Gary Eberle will discuss the origins and history of romantic love, tracing it back to its roots in Islam and the European Middle Ages. We will learn how eroticism, desire and beauty fused into a mystical model of self-transformation. Not for lovers only. (SS)
Sunday, February 10. 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Owning Your Religious Past: The Haunting Church. Rev. Matthew Cockrum.
These sessions provide an opportunity for participants to review, share and reclaim their religious and spiritual history. The primary goal is to embrace that which is positive from your past and to relinquish those things which continue to haunt you. Matthew has taught this course in several locations, once with the creator of the curriculum during his ministry training. Matthew's background before seminary was in human development and family studies. (SS, I)
Monday evenings, 6:30-8:30
January 14, 28, February 11, 25, March 10
Searching for Your Truth. Andrea Baier-Petiet and Bonnie Slayton.
Gain the tools for doing the work to walk on the path of your own truth. Using movement, visual arts, music, journaling, meditation and dialogue, learn to express yourself outwardly to provide access to your inner wisdom. Using the arts for process, not product, can offer personal growth and awareness, self-empowerment, spiritual unfolding, enhanced creativity and recaptured JOY. Each participant should bring ablanket or pillow to sit on, and a journal. Wear comfortable clothing. Art supplies, water and some snacks will be provided. Andrea Baier-Petiet, LLP, MA, LMSW has practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years. Bonnie Slayton is a certified Expressive Arts Facilitator, with a certificate in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University and an MA in Art Education. Cost: $25 per participant.
April 14, Monday, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Taoism and its Implications. Dr. Douglas Chung.
Dr. Chung, professor at Grand Valley State University, will explain the Yin-Yang diagram as the primary image of Tao, and will discuss Taoist principles of energy management for conflict resolution, anti-aging, and well being. (SS)
Sunday, January 27, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Walking the Labyrinth: An Inner Journey. Rev. Matt Cockrum and Gary Eberle.
In the European Middle Ages as in contemporary Islam, spiritual pilgrimage to a holy site was understood to be an inner, as well as an outer, journey. Those who could not literally get away could take a symbolic pilgrimage by walking a labyrinth whose twists and turns represented the soul's journey to its own center and out again. On Ash Wednesday, to usher in the traditional time of turning inward and spiritual reflection, we will walk a replica of the famous labyrinth set in the floor of Chartres Cathedral. In a setting of calm and reflection, we begin the soul's journey to find itself.
Wednesday, February 6. Talk at 7 p.m. Individual walks 7:30-9:00 p.m.
Weekend of Reflection:
A retreat experience for adults who wish to spend structured reflection time in an idyllic setting. Modeled on contemplative retreats practiced in the Catholic, Buddhist and other traditions, this weekend experience (Friday evening to Sunday noon) will include both guided meditation and free time for reflection with the goal of growing the soul in an atmosphere of quiet fellowship. Facilitators: Rev. Matthew Cockrum and Gary Eberle, author of Sacred Time and the Search for Meaning. Cost $ TBA. ("Scholarships" available.) Enrollment limited. Pre-registration required: 459-8386.
June 27-29.
Adult Religious Education programming is coordinated by the Adult Religious Education committee, Gary Eberle, chair, under the supervision of Rev. Matt Cockrum, Minister for Spiritual Life & Learning. Committee members are Jan Proli, Mark Walstrom, Todd Oleson, Rev. Bunny Voss, and Buzz Wynbeek. Ideas for programs may be proposed through committee members or via email to Gary Eberle at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
ART: Awareness, Reconciliation, Transformation. Phil Schaafsma.
Phil Schaafsma and the artists whose work is on display in the Keeler Gallery from February 18-March 23 will examine the current renaissance in religious art and present examples of artists working as creative catalysts in today's world. How can art lead to personal growth and spiritual insight and become a reconciling force in our contemporary culture? Artists will discuss their work as creative visual ministry and their roles as spiritual cultural catalysts. Phil Schaafsma is owner of Eyekons Gallery. Artists Rick Beerhorst, Jonathon Quist, Julie Quinn and Jim Fissel will participate. (SS)
March 2, 9, and 16. Sundays, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
The Beguines. Sr. Mary Navarre O.P., Sr. Julia Moore O.P.
In the middle ages, thousands of lay people formed their own spiritual communities of men and women to lead more spiritual lives. This fascinating talk is illustrated with slides taken by the presenters in their travels to the European Beguine sites. Sr. Mary Navarre, O.P. and Sr. Julia Moore O. P. are Grand Rapids Dominicans from Marywood. (SS)
April 13. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Cinema and Soul.
"Cinema and Soul" is a monthly film discussion series that features screenings of thought-provoking and soul-changing films followed by thoughtful discussions led by various discussion leaders. Organized by Mark Walstrom and Matthew Cockrum, this series should provide food for thought and nourishment for souls, as well as a treat for film buffs.
Sundays, 1:00-4:00 p.m. (SS) $5.00 donation suggested.
January 13 "Dirty Filthy Love." The British indie DIRTY FILTHY LOVE offers a quirky spin on the standard romantic-comedy formula. Mark Furness (Michael Sheen) is a thirtysomething architect whose marriage and career are threatened by his increasing obsessive-compulsive disorder and Tourette's syndrome. Mark turns to his doctor for help but instead meets a kindred soul.
February 10: "Waking Life." More than food for thought, Waking Life is a
philosophical and visual banquet for the mind. From scenes of immolation, floating and tango, to micro-waved burritos and existentialism, Linklater has created a provocative film.
March 9: "What Dreams May Come" - This Oscar winning 1998 film follows a man searching for meaning after the death of his wife and children. Amazing cinematography and special effects add to this dramatic exploration of life and after-life. Stars Robin Williams, Cuba Gooding Jr., Annabella Sciorra and Max von Sydow. Rated PG-13 for thematic elements involving death and some disturbing images and language.
Circle of Crones. Johanna Sizick, Chair, Croning Committee.
Once it was believed Mother Earth was the mysterious power that woke everything to life. Women were respected healers. The word crone meant "crown" and a Crone was called Wise Woman, hag meant "holy one," and saga meant "female sage." Once, elders were venerated and respected. During the spring season, we recognize women 56 years and older as Crones. This series involves several levels of participation. (For information, call Johanna Sizick, 1-616-475-5771.) (I)
March 8, Session 1: "What Does it Mean to be a Crone?"
Saturday, 9:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. at Family Life Center, 1256 Walker Ave, Grand Rapids MI 49504. All women invited.
April 6, Session 2: "Orientation for Candidates."
Sunday, 1:30-3:30. At Fountain Street Church. Candidates only.
April 27, Session 3: "Community Croning Ceremony."
Sunday, 2:00-4:00 p.m., at Fountain Street Church. All women invited.
Come Sit With Us.
Experience the many benefits of regular meditation practice with a weekly silent meditation group. Meetings will begin with a half-hour meditation each week, followed by informal discussion when time allows. This will be an opportunity not to exercise the mind but to rest and transcend it. Facilitator: Dr. Patrick Duiven. Every Wednesday, noon-1 p.m., in chapel. (I)
Connections.
Connections is Fountain Street's new ministry of small group engagement launched in March, 2007. Each small group (6-10 people) meets at the church or in someone's home a couple of times am onth for nine sessions. Each group creates its own behavioral covenant and service covenant to the church and the larger community. All groups share a common format and the values an Open Mind, Loving Heart and Welcoming and Helping Hands. Call Rev. Matthew Cockrum for further information on how to connect with a group. 459-8386. (I)
Cosmos. David Fideler.
The Greek word cosmos cannot be translated into a single English word, but refers to an equal presence of order and beauty. In this slide-illustrated meditation-lecture originally developed for the Roger Chaffee planetarium, author and editor David Fideler will explore the beauty and harmony of the physical world that forms our connection with the underlying fabric of life. (SS)
May 4. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Cultivating Quiet: A Brief Introduction to Buddhism and Meditation. Eric Mullen.
What can this ancient oriental religion teach us about walking calmly through the hectic modern world? Eric Mullen, Assistant Director of Student Activities at Grand Rapids Community College, wil share his insights on the Buddhist Middle Path. (SS, I)
Sunday, February 3, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Diversity in the Church and the World: Queer Theory in Practice. Rev. Matthew
Cockrum.
This 5-session course is a follow-up to Weaving the Fabric of Diversity, offered in the fall months. Areas of oppression for special focus will be racism and ableism. We will also explore an introduction to the academic field of Queer Theory and examine its potential implications for ways of thinking about diversity and social justice work in the church and the world. Please contact Rev. Matthew Cockrum to pre-register at 616-459-8386 ext. 215 or at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it
Mondays, 6:00-8:00 p.m.
March 24, April 7, 21, May 5, 19.
Enhancement of Committed Relationships. Carla Miller and George Zuiderveen.
Information to follow
Exploring Beliefs and Questions.
An ongoing group-directed open discussion of beliefs and questions. Free expression of ideas is encouraged. Topics vary. For further information, contact Bob or Sherron Collins, 1-616-846-3912. (SS) Meets every Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a. m.
Friday Morning Poetry Group.
Reading and discussion of various poets in a small group setting. For further information, contact Louisa Nally, 874-8150. Every Friday, 10 a.m. Room 108.
Generation to Generation.
"Generation to Generation" is geared towards those interested in exploring the bible stories being used in the Character School's Voyage of discovery. Whether you are a teacher, parent, or an interested "other," you are welcome to explore the timeless themes we find in the Jewish and Christian scriptures. Rev. Matthew Cockrum, facilitator. (F)
Sundays, 9:45-10:45
January 6: "Jesus's Baptism, Temptation and Beatitudes."
February 17: "The Cross and Religious Symbolism of the World."
March 9: "Pentecost and Corinthians: Communities in Conflict."
The Gospel of Mozart. Rev. Fred Wooden.
While composers and painters do not use words to communicate, they do communicate. Mozart had much to say about sin and salvation and he does it through his operas. We'll look at how he takes the words of others and through his music sends his own message about matters spiritual. (SS) Wednesday evenings, 7:00-8:30 p.m.
February 6: The Marriage of Figaro
February 13: Cosi Fan Tutte
February 20: Don Giovanni
February 27: The Magic Flute
The Heart of Intelligence. Ken Porter and Fenna Diephuis.
We humans, with our sophisticated cerebral hardware, like to think of ourselves as the pinnacle of evolution, yet we have tremendous difficulty understanding each other, and visit pointless suffering upon ourselves and each other as a result. Fortunately, the heart offers us an ancient wisdom with the power to shift human consciousness. This two-part presentation will offer you tangible ways to access the vast and sacred intelligence your heart holds within the memory of Itself. Ken and Fenna are both Certified Somatic Therapists, with individual private practices offering massage and bodywork, as well as somatic therapy groups and workshops. They both have studied Shamanic Counseling, Transformational Bodywork, and Non-Violent Communication. (I)
April 20, 27. Sundays, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Inquirer's Lunch. Paula Roelands and staff.
What is this "Fountain Street" all about? This class is an introduction to what Fountain Street Church represents and has to offer to individuals seeking to find their spiritual paths. Liberal theology, history and religious and spiritual expectations are among the topics to be shared in an open forum with the clergy staff of the church. Led by clergy staff and open to all, this class is designed to answer basic questions about Fountain Street Church and allow you to assess the possibilities of this becoming your individual spiritual religious home. Materials and lunch provided. We kindly request your reservation for meal planning. Childcare is also available with advance notice. Contact Paula Roelands, 459-8386, ext. 225. (F)
Sundays, 12:30-2:00 p.m.
First offering: January 27.(A follow-up series with potluck lunch will continue the course on February 3, 10, 17.)
Second offering: March 9. (Follow up sessions for this meeting will be on March 16, 30 and April 6).
Third offering: May 4. (Follow up sessions for this program: May 11, 25 and June 1.)
Jazz and Spirituality: Dave Brubeck. Dr. Paul Brewer.
Jazz master Dave Brubeck, who has appeared live several times at Fountain Street Church, composed some of "cool" jazz's most memorable standards. In addition, he wrote and performed much spiritually-themed music, using his unique time signatures to unlock the world within. Paul Brewer is on the faculty of Aquinas College and Interlochen Fine Arts Camp. (SS)
April 6. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth.
The groundbreaking PBS series Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth was first aired 20 years ago, but the programs still have the ability to evoke our sense of wonder at the rich traditions of world mythology. This series will air one film per month followed by a discussion of how mythology can influence our lives in the modern world. Gary Eberle, author and chairman of the adult religious education committee, will lead the discussion. (SS)
Monday evenings, 7-9 p.m.
March 17: "Sacrifice and Bliss"
April 28: "Love and the Goddess."
May 12: "Masks of Eternity."
The Life of Moses: Three Stages of Human Development. Rabbi Albert Lewis
What can the ancient Hebrew scriptures teach of modern human life and development? Rabbi Albert Lewis will explore the life journey of Moses as a model of growth through the lifespan. Rabbi Lewis is Rabbi Emeritus of Temple Emmanuel, and director Emeritus of Aquinas College's Emeritus Program. He is also a regular columnist for the Grand Rapids Press and has been deeply involved in the Grand Rapids community for over 30 years. (SS)
January 20, Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Mapping the Sacred Sound Universe. Gwen Faasen.
This class will explore how we experience sound and how what we hear is the result of a dance between the world and how we are made. We organize our reality out of this dance. Music as a language of vibration is one of the best means we have for thinking about the fabric of the mind that resides everywhere. Sound reminds us of the profound physical interconnectedness that is our true environment. Ethnomusicologist and performer Gwen Faasen has traveled the world in search of sacred music, and performs as a member of Vox Angelica. (I)
May 11. Sunday, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
(Not) For Lovers Only: A Brief History of Romantic Love. Gary Eberle.
Author Robert Johnson said that romantic love forms one of the most durable constructs of the western mind. In this slide-illustrated discussion, author Gary Eberle will discuss the origins and history of romantic love, tracing it back to its roots in Islam and the European Middle Ages. We will learn how eroticism, desire and beauty fused into a mystical model of self-transformation. Not for lovers only. (SS)
Sunday, February 10. 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Owning Your Religious Past: The Haunting Church. Rev. Matthew Cockrum.
These sessions provide an opportunity for participants to review, share and reclaim their religious and spiritual history. The primary goal is to embrace that which is positive from your past and to relinquish those things which continue to haunt you. Matthew has taught this course in several locations, once with the creator of the curriculum during his ministry training. Matthew's background before seminary was in human development and family studies. (SS, I)
Monday evenings, 6:30-8:30
January 14, 28, February 11, 25, March 10
Searching for Your Truth. Andrea Baier-Petiet and Bonnie Slayton.
Gain the tools for doing the work to walk on the path of your own truth. Using movement, visual arts, music, journaling, meditation and dialogue, learn to express yourself outwardly to provide access to your inner wisdom. Using the arts for process, not product, can offer personal growth and awareness, self-empowerment, spiritual unfolding, enhanced creativity and recaptured JOY. Each participant should bring ablanket or pillow to sit on, and a journal. Wear comfortable clothing. Art supplies, water and some snacks will be provided. Andrea Baier-Petiet, LLP, MA, LMSW has practiced psychotherapy for over 20 years. Bonnie Slayton is a certified Expressive Arts Facilitator, with a certificate in Holistic Health from Western Michigan University and an MA in Art Education. Cost: $25 per participant.
April 14, Monday, 6:00-9:00 p.m.
Taoism and its Implications. Dr. Douglas Chung.
Dr. Chung, professor at Grand Valley State University, will explain the Yin-Yang diagram as the primary image of Tao, and will discuss Taoist principles of energy management for conflict resolution, anti-aging, and well being. (SS)
Sunday, January 27, 9:45-10:45 a.m.
Walking the Labyrinth: An Inner Journey. Rev. Matt Cockrum and Gary Eberle.
In the European Middle Ages as in contemporary Islam, spiritual pilgrimage to a holy site was understood to be an inner, as well as an outer, journey. Those who could not literally get away could take a symbolic pilgrimage by walking a labyrinth whose twists and turns represented the soul's journey to its own center and out again. On Ash Wednesday, to usher in the traditional time of turning inward and spiritual reflection, we will walk a replica of the famous labyrinth set in the floor of Chartres Cathedral. In a setting of calm and reflection, we begin the soul's journey to find itself.
Wednesday, February 6. Talk at 7 p.m. Individual walks 7:30-9:00 p.m.
Weekend of Reflection:
A retreat experience for adults who wish to spend structured reflection time in an idyllic setting. Modeled on contemplative retreats practiced in the Catholic, Buddhist and other traditions, this weekend experience (Friday evening to Sunday noon) will include both guided meditation and free time for reflection with the goal of growing the soul in an atmosphere of quiet fellowship. Facilitators: Rev. Matthew Cockrum and Gary Eberle, author of Sacred Time and the Search for Meaning. Cost $ TBA. ("Scholarships" available.) Enrollment limited. Pre-registration required: 459-8386.
June 27-29.
Adult Religious Education programming is coordinated by the Adult Religious Education committee, Gary Eberle, chair, under the supervision of Rev. Matt Cockrum, Minister for Spiritual Life & Learning. Committee members are Jan Proli, Mark Walstrom, Todd Oleson, Rev. Bunny Voss, and Buzz Wynbeek. Ideas for programs may be proposed through committee members or via email to Gary Eberle at This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it