The Midweek Forum
My Story, My Soul: Creating Your Soul Cards
Drawing on imagination and intuition, discover the story-line that guides your soul! Following Seena B. Frost’s model for SoulCollage, gather words and images to create a visual representation of you for self-reflection and sharing. Similar to tarot cards and angel decks, but unique and personal, your cards will help you to understand and appreciate what gives meaning to your deepest thoughts, feelings and experiences.
5 Wednesdays, Sept. 26, Oct. 3, 10, 17, & 24
9:30-11:30 am
$60 ($50 Members) $20 Drop-In
Interweave
Lisa Brown is a Fine Artist and Teacher. She has a Master’s degree in Creative Arts Education, and has developed her own “Art as Therapy” programs intended to help students explore art as a means for expanding their visions of themselves and the world.
Janet Haag is Interweave’s Executive Director.
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Dances of Universal Peace: Harmony and Healing in Movement
Rejuvenate your spirit and open your heart with sacred circle dancing and joyous group singing honoring the world’s mystical traditions. Participation, not presentation, is the focus. No musical or dance experience of any kind required.
1st Fridays, 7:30-9:00 pm
Sept. 7, Nov. 2, Feb. 1 at Interweave
Oct. 5, Dec. 7 at the Unitarian Church in Summit
$10 per evening
André Bernard, a former resident at the Lama Foundation in New Mexico, has been a student of sacred music and dance for many years.
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The Friday Morning Forum
The Living Qur’an: Introduction to Islam’s Scripture
Co-sponsored with Christ Church Short Hills
Learn basic facts about the Holy Qur’an, considered the ultimate revelation of God by a billion Muslims worldwide. Using a variety of passages, Imam El-Filali will brief you on the origins of the Qur’an and its basic teachings about God, the duty of human beings, justice, compassion, mercy and forgiveness. Dr. Rush will comment on Christian parallels. How do the stories of the Patriarchs differ from the Hebrew Bible? What is the Qur’an’s idea of Mary and Jesus? Of the place of women? This course will dispel misunderstandings and help make you an informed ambassador for interfaith understanding with our Muslim neighbors.
4 Fridays, Oct. 5, 12, 19, & 26
9:30-11:30 am
$60 ($50 Members) $20 drop-in
Christ Church, Short Hills
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Threads of Consciousness: Weaving the Tapestry of Our Lives Through Writing
Do you enjoy writing or need a little encouragement to write? Would you like to find an oasis of calm where you can express yourself and share with other kindred spirits? If so, join us for our monthly writing circle, where we will explore ideas in an atmosphere of deep listening and mutual respect. Discover and give voice to what is meaningful to you and waiting to be said. You may bring a piece you have been working on or write in real time during the session. No previous experience needed. Class size is limited.
1st Saturdays, Oct. 6, Nov. 3, & Dec. 1
9:30-11:30 am
$50 ($45 Members) $20 Drop-In
Interweave
Lorri Lizza, MBA, has facilitated workshops and learning circles at the Omega Institute, ALIA Institute, Interweave, and the United Nations 55th and 56th sessions on the Commission on the Status of Women.
Reverend Jan De Pinto is an ordained Interfaith minister in the Church of Universal Worship and is currently pursuing MDiv. at Drew. She offers individual coaching and group programs in wellness and spirituality in NY and NJ.
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A Gentle Way Forward: Support for Those Affected by Cancer
A cancer diagnosis instantly changes things and obscures the path ahead for patients and their loved ones. Join us for one or all three gatherings to identify strengths while exploring new coping strategies and sources of support. Come and experience the power of guided meditation; tap your creative energy through art and poetry; in the company of others find a gentle way forward for peace and healing. Whether you have just begun your cancer journey or are a seasoned veteran, embark with others on a shared quest for beauty, hope and encouragement.
3 Sundays, Sept. 30, Oct. 7 & 14
1:00-3:00 pm
No Charge
Interweave
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Christpaths: A Monthly Spiritual Sharing and Practice Group
Join with others for an expertly guided monthly experience of meditation, focused learning and spiritual sharing in the Christian tradition. The many varieties of spiritual experience are welcomed. Participants pledge regular attendance and share in leadership.
2nd Tuesdays, Oct. 9, Nov. 13, Dec. 11, Jan. 8, Feb. 12, Mar. 12, Apr. 9, May 14, & June 11
9:30 am - 12:00 noon
Christ Church, Short Hills
Yearly Tuition: $175
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Customs and Courtesies: Gracefully Navigating a Multifaith World
We live in a world in which we increasingly find ourselves face to face with diverse religious beliefs and cultural values in our own families, our workplaces, schools and neighborhoods. Have you ever wondered ...What you should know before attending your cousin’s Bar Mitzvah? What you should say to your Muslim co-worker who is marking Ramadan? What you should expect at your Hindu neighbor’s wedding? Whether or not you should you receive Communion at the Silver Wedding Anniversary Mass for your Roman Catholic boss?
4 Tuesdays, Sept. 25-Nov. 13
7:30-9:00 pm
$60 ($50 Members) $20 Drop-in
Interweave
Oct. 9 - Christianity
Jennifer Hinton is Program Director of the Office of Parish Leadership Formation for the Diocese of Metuchen. She received her BA in Psychology and Master’s Degree in Special Education from Rutgers University and is currently completing a graduate degree in Pastoral Studies/Religious Education at LaSalle University.
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Spiritual Sharing Group
The Benedictine Way: Preferring Nothing Whatever to Christ
Are you struggling to find a spiritual life in the midst of days that are forever busy and fragmenting? Looking for ways to restore personal balance and wholeness? Now in its fifth year, this group will explore how timeless ideas in the sixth century Rule of St. Benedict can foster centered and holistic living in the 21st century, and help you discover the many ways Benedictine spirituality can help you live into your Baptismal Covenant and deepen your life with Christ. We’ll be using Esther de Waal’s noted book Seeking God: The Way of St. Benedict to guide the study of the Rule of St. Benedict. The group will also pray with Scripture using group lectio divina. New members are always welcome.
2nd Wednesday of each month, Oct, 10 , Nov. 14, Dec. 12, Jan 9, Feb 13, Mar. 13, Apr. 10, May 8
1:30-4:00 pm
Yearly Tuition: $250 ($125 per semester)
Interweave
The Rev. Dr. Jane Tomaine is an Episcopal priest, published author, teacher, and a popular speaker and leader. At her former parish, St. Peter’s, Livingston, Jane developed her book St. Benedict’s Toolbox, a guide for living a modern Christ-centered life. Visit her website at: www.stbenedictstoolbox.org
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Dreams from the Soul: How to Receive the Mystery and Engage With These Nightly Messages
The soul speaks to us in our nightly dreams. The more we learn how to listen to them, the clearer the soul’s voice becomes. The dream carries messages for both our current situations and our future lives. The task of learning how to listen can be exciting and pleasurable, as we experience a range of feelings, including awe. In this workshop, you will be guided and supported to listen to the unique messages from your individual soul. For new and experienced dreamers.
Saturday, Oct. 13
1:00-4:00 pm
$45 ($40 Members)
Interweave
Raechel Bratnick has been teaching dreamwork for 25 years, and is the author of Awakening the Dreamer. She has a private practice as a non-dual kabbalistic healer and spiritual mentor, and is writing a memoir about awakening in marriage.
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The 50-Year-Old Child: How to Care for Your Aging Parents and Still Be a Kid
Understand why Mom won’t listen to you and discover some new ways to overcome resistance. Learn to recognize and acknowledge signs of decline you might be missing. Discover the best resources for parents who need care. Master the legal documents, as well as the emotions they stir. Learn how to use technology to stay in touch.
Tuesday, Oct. 16
7:30-9:00 pm
$25 ($20 Members)
Interweave
Adriane G. Berg is a well-known radio and television personality, attorney, award-winning author and thought leader on aging and longevity. She brings an informal, practical voice, warmth and humor to topics often shrouded in jargon and complexity.
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Thinking On Thursdays (TOT) Series
A New Partnership with Calvary Episcopal Church
The Cultural Politics of the Religious Right
The Christian Right stormed onto the scene in the late 70s, and has been an influential feature of American life ever since. What is the Christian Right? Where did the movement come from? What do “they” want for America? For the globe? Why have cultural matters, just as much as political strategy, been at the forefront of their agenda in the United States and beyond? Professor J. Terry Todd will explore the Christian Right’s contemporary manifestations, its deep roots in the American past, and its possible futures. Is a truce in the so-called “culture wars” possible? Is dialogue desirable with those whom some observers have called “Christofascists”? What spiritual resources can help us answer these questions as we move into an uncertain future?
Thursday, October 18
7:00-9:00 pm
Free and open to the public
Calvary Church
J. Terry Todd, Ph.D is Associate Professor of American Religious Studies at Drew University. His research and teaching focus on how religious ideas, practices and institutions in the US develop within contemporary urban contexts, and how forms of popular media shape the ways we think about ourselves in relation to religion, spirituality, Christianity and the American nation.
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Mandala Meditation Workshop
Co-sponsored with The Community of St. John Baptist
Mandala is a Sanskrit word that means circle. The visual patterns of mandalas help to quiet the mind, creating sacred space. Following a brief introduction, participants will create their own personal mandala, working in a quiet atmosphere conducive to meditation. No artistic ability is necessary!
Supplies will be provided. Lunch is included.
Saturday, Oct. 20, 9:30 am - 2:30 pm
$35 ($30 Members)
The Community of St. John Baptist, Mendham
Sister Laura Katharine is a spiritual director and member of the Community of St. John Baptist. With an interest in world religions, she works especially with mandalas and the Enneagram.
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Customs and Courtesies: Gracefully Navigating a Multifaith World
We live in a world in which we increasingly find ourselves face to face with diverse religious beliefs and cultural values in our own families, our workplaces, schools and neighborhoods. Have you ever wondered ...What you should know before attending your cousin’s Bar Mitzvah? What you should say to your Muslim co-worker who is marking Ramadan? What you should expect at your Hindu neighbor’s wedding? Whether or not you should you receive Communion at the Silver Wedding Anniversary Mass for your Roman Catholic boss?
4 Tuesdays, Sept. 25-Nov. 13
7:30-9:00 pm
$60 ($50 Members) $20 Drop-in
Interweave
Oct. 23 - Hinduism
Vineet Chander is the Coordinator for Hindu Life at Princeton University, a Religious Life Leader at the Lawrenceville School, and Adjunct Professor at Farleigh Dickinson University. An attorney and communications consultant, he previously served as the North American Communications Director for the International Society for Krishna Consciousness (ISKCON).
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Interweave Friendraiser/Fundraiser
Tapas and Talk
Enjoy an unforgettable evening of great food and great conversation with distinguished guests from a wide range of interests! Learn about these remarkable individuals, the insights and experiences that impact their work and shape their lives. The proceeds from this signature event will help support Interweave!
Thursday, October 25
7:00-9:00 pm
$75 per person
Temple Sinai, Summit
Rev. Paul Brandeis Raushenbush is the Senior Religion Editor for the Huffington Post. From 2003-2011 he was the Associate Dean of Religious Life and the Chapel at Princeton University. An ordained American Baptist minister, Rev. Raushenbush speaks and preaches at colleges, churches and institutes around the country.
Richard Keevey, is the Distinguished Practitioner in Residence at the School of Public Affairs and Administration at Rutgers University-Newark and a Visiting Professor at the Princeton’s Woodrow Wilson School.
Daisy Khan is Executive Director of the American Society for Muslim Advancement, a New York-based non-profit dedicated to strengthening an expression of Islam based on cultural and religious harmony and building bridges between Muslims and the general public.
John Nash, is co-host of The Focus Group on Sirius XM Radio and a LGBT marketing guru who is regularly cited in publications such as the New York TImes and Wall Street Journal.
Rev. Dr. Lon Calvin Whitfield is a dedicated minister of the gospel and multi-talented jazz musician, a charismatic individual who bridges cultural divides with his warmth, humor and story-telling.
Rabbi Rachel Kahn-Troster is the Director of North American Programs for Rabbis for Human Rights. Ordained in 2008 from the Jewish Theological Seminary, she is a noted speaker on Judaism and human rights, a published author, and serves on the boards of Hazon and the National Religious Campaign Against Torture.
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Awakening: A Kirtan Mass
Co-sponsored with St. Luke’s Montclair
Awaken your heart and spirit to the Divine within through kirtan—an ancient form of chanting that communicates powerful healing and transformative energies. Share in a mystical, meditative experience of Word and Sacrament with the Rev. James Reho (celebrant) and Billy Mitchum (wallah).
Sunday, Oct. 28, 6:00 pm
Suggested donation $20
James Reho is Chaplain and Director of Pastoral Care, Deployment, Formation and Theological Field Education at General Theological Seminary, and a certified yoga instructor. He developed “Awakening: A Kirtan Mass” while serving as a priest in Miami.
Billy Mitchum grew up singing. With Kirtan he found a way into the heart previously unattainable - where the yearning, healing, heartbreak and hope - all exist in one beautiful moment of union with the divine.
Second Date: Sunday, Nov. 4, 6:00 pm at Community St. John Baptist, Mendham
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Reflective Practices at Community St. John Baptist
Walking the Labyrinth: A Time for Reflection and Refreshment
Learn about this ancient way of meditation, a perfect way to ponder an issue, pray for guidance or simply walk toward calmness and centeredness. Reflection and group discussion follow. Meet at the convent building.
Frequent Saturdays, 2:00-4:00 pm
$10 suggested donation
(see www.csjb.org or call 973-543-4641 for details)
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Centering Prayer: Entering the Silence of God
Co-sponsored in Mendham by Community of St. John Baptist
Join the Sisters for a quiet hour practicing a method of silent prayer that prepares heart and mind to receive the gift of contemplation, the deep state of mind in which the presence of the Divine can be known within.
Thursdays, 7:15-8:15 pm
No Charge
(see www.csjb.org or call 973-543-4641 for details)