Some topics require greater opportunity for the ongoing process of self-development and growth. Journey Studies are multi-session courses of study which promote such growth.

Previous Offerings:

Conversations on Walden

This seven-session discussion series centered around eight chapters from the book, Walden, by Henry David Thoreau. The weekly discussions were guided by questions contained in Barry M. Andrews’ book, Thoreau as Spiritual Guide: A Companion to Walden for Personal Reflection and Group Discussion. Readings and discussions were focused on what the Transcendentalists called self-culture, or care of the soul. Conversations on Walden was facilitated by Bobbi Gerlits and Ann Parsley. This discussion series may be offered again in the future.

Joseph Campbell and the Power of Myth

A six-session discussion series was held around world-renowned mythologist and professor of religion Joseph Campbell and journalist Bill Moyers. The series included discussion of myths as metaphors and the path to transcendence in dialogues that adroitly spanned millennia of history and far-flung geography.

We viewed each episode, and then engaged in a lively discussion of how it moved and inspired us. This series was facilitated by Dave Gerlits.

Beloved Conversations

In June 2021, our congregation adopted an 8th principle that centers on anti-racism work and the dismantling of institutionalized oppressions. Many in our community participated in programming facilitated through Meadville Lombard Theological School. “Beloved Conversations is an experiential curriculum that provides a space to heal the spiritual and organizational wounds that racism causes in our faith community. The program aims to foster cross-cultural relationships that nurture the spiritual health of program participants, congregations and communities beyond their walls.”