In this presentation, Oley will invite us to use experiential practices and the symbolism of the Tai Ji Tu (commonly known as the Yin Yang symbol) to understand the fundamental principles of Daoism. Oley Smith received his doctorate of Acupuncture and Herbal medicine from Daoist Traditions College of Chinese Medical Arts. He is a Senior … Continue reading Unity, Diversity, and Harmony
An important symbol in the Buddhist tradition is the Dharmachakra, the eight-spoked wheel, known as the “Wheel of Dharma.” In the Buddha’s first sermon, he initiated the first “Turning of the Wheel of Dharma,” circulating teachings that directly lead to enlightenment. The eight spokes symbolize the Enobling Eightfold Path – that which cultivates morality, mental … Continue reading The Buddhist Path to Liberation
Hinduism is one of the most ancient and complex religions of the world, comprising thousands of sects and traditions. Rather than an academic lecture about its history, I will be sharing insights from my 20 years of living and practicing a yogic lifestyle in a Hindu ashram (spiritual community) here in the US. With the … Continue reading Spiritual Practice in Everyday Life: Reflections from 20 Years of Ashram Living
The history of the Star of David goes back beyond Judaism. John will explore the history of the Star of David and how it became a prominent symbol of Judaism. John Heavenrich, a retired attorney from Cleveland, began his commute to Durango in 2000. John was raised in a reformed Jewish family and was active … Continue reading The History of the Star of David
What if holiness lives not in heaven, but in human hands? Drawing on Adrienne Rich’s Final Notations, Megan Dugan will explore how Humanism offers a path of meaning, care, and awe—rooted not in belief, but in the choices we make and the lives we touch. Megan Dugan is a third-generation lifelong Unitarian Universalist, a mother … Continue reading In These Hands: A Humanist Vision of Sacred Responsibility
Services this week will be held at our Retreat at Pine Song.
Of all religious symbols across many and various faiths, the cross stands out as both one of the most recognizable and one of the strangest. How is it that an instrument of humiliation, torture, and death came to symbolize one of the world’s great faiths? How has this symbol lasted down the millennia, and why … Continue reading The Cross: Keeping Christianity Weird for Over Two Thousand Years
Ours is a community that welcomes people of all spiritual traditions, appreciating all the ways we find to live a spiritual and moral life. Join Mary as she opens the gates to our Shared Ministry Summer Series, which will be an 8-part exploration into the spiritual diversity within and beyond our community. Mary Ocken has … Continue reading Opening Windows to Enrichment
With all the oppression in the world right now, transgender people still come together to share their pride and to be their true selves. Being able to experience trans joy in our current world is a way we can fight back and find others who experience the challenges we go through.
Steve Foster and family will share their story of traveling around the world, sharing what they learned on their great adventure and exploring the freedom they discovered and how it changed their lives. In celebration of Father’s Day, Steve will also share how he was changed as a father and the lessons he learned about … Continue reading Freedom and Fatherhood Around the World
