Theme: Forging Paths Toward Justice, Peace, and Earth-Care

Topic: Prophetic Healing: Howard Thurman’s Vision of Contemplative Activism

Presenter(s): Bruce Epperly

Howard Thurman is among the most influential spiritual leaders, mystics, preachers, and theologians of our time.  His work integrates spirituality and politics and theology and practical wisdom in life transforming ways.  In this session, we will explore Thurman’s vision of mysticism and social action and consider ways in which we can become prophetic healers in our troubled time.  We will reflect on significant moments of Thurman’s life, growing up in Jim Crow America, as the foundation for his theology of holy adventure and creative transformation of persons, institutions, and the planet.

About the Presenter(s)

Bruce Epperly is a pastor, professor, spiritual guide, and author of over sixty books, including his Christmas trilogy, The Work of Christmas: The Twelve Days of Christmas with Howard Thurman; Thin Places Everywhere; The Twelve Days of Christmas with Celtic Christianity; and I Wonder as I Wander: The Twelve Days of Christmas with Madeleine L’Engle, as well as Process Theology: A Guide for the Perplexed; Process Theology and Politics; Prophetic Healing: Howard Thurman’s Vision of Contemplative Activism; and Walking with Francis of Assisi: From Privilege to Activism.