Lenore Ralston, has a Ph.D. in Anthropology from Bryn Mawr College and an M.P.H. from UC Berkeley. UUCB Member. “Two Faces of God: Elohim and Adonai: A faith-journey of a secular Jew.”

Kit Hewitt, UUCB member, Facilitator for UUCB Write For Your Life Writing Group, and Personal Theology publicist.  “Joy: Galapagos Islands.”

Cordell Sloan, UUCB Board of Trustee, Technology guru; dream expert; jazz musician and son of Rev. Cordell Sloan, Sr. Cordell says “There have been a number of times in my life (And I’m sure yours too.) when necessity, that fecund mother of invention, required a personal reinvention. I’ve had a number of occasions requiring a makeover of myself as well as studying others pursuing a growth driven journey and from each of these experiences I find that there are many factors that consistently come into play when we succeed in renewal.” “My Toolkit For Self Invention.”

Murshid Kiran Rana is a senior teacher in the Sufi Way, a mystical community that has its origin in the teachings of universal Sufism introduced in the West in 1910 by the Indian mystic Inayat Khan. Kiran lives happily in Alameda with his wife, Jeanne Rana, a poet and fellow-Sufi who is also a member of the First Unitarian Church of Oakland. At their Sufi center, Bay Dervish, they hold gatherings for meditation, invocation and music, offer personal guidance, and facilitate intimate conversations about the inner life, creativity and awakening. Kiran also teaches an online webinar called A Taste of Sufism; currently he and Jeanne are offering a ten-month-long program in Berkeley called Sufism & the Art of Loving. “Two Stories: How Kiran and Jeanne Found Sufism Found Them.”

Murshid Kiran & Jeanne Rana, (see bio above). “I follow the religion of love: whatever way love’s camels take, that is my religion and my faith.”  — Ibn ’Arabi

Murshid Kiran Rana is a senior teacher in the Sufi Way, a mystical community that has its origin in the teachings of universal Sufism introduced in the West in 1910 by the Indian mystic Inayat Khan. Kiran lives happily in Alameda with his wife, Jeanne Rana, a poet and fellow-Sufi who is also a member of the First Unitarian Church of Oakland. At their Sufi center, Bay Dervish, they hold gatherings for meditation, invocation and music, offer personal guidance, and facilitate intimate conversations about the inner life, creativity and awakening. Kiran also teaches an online webinar called A Taste of Sufism; currently he and Jeanne are offering a ten-month-long program in Berkeley called Sufism & the Art of Loving. “Two Stories: How Kiran and Jeanne Found Sufism Found Them.”

Bill Garrett, retired Professor of Philosophy and Religion, taught at JFK University, San Francisco State, Fromm institute, CIIS and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. The Enemy of the People.

Dr. Markate Daly has a PhD in Ethics from the University of Wisconsin. She’s a long-time active member of UUCB. Recent debates on the abortion issue pit the pro-choice view, framed in the language of personal rights and interests, against the pro-life groups, framed in moral terms. This framing distorts the real balance of moral versus self-interested motives about the legality of abortion services.  My objective here is to show the moral case for continuing to support abortion rights while showing the Faustian bargain fundamentalist Christians have made with the corporate elite and the Republican Party. “A Moral Defense of Abortion Rights.”

Ifasina TaMeicka L. Clear is a queer, hood, Southern Bell who resides in Oakland. Ifasina is a spiritual artist that is passionate about creating meaningful spaces to engage the body, heart, and mind in the plight of personal liberation and deepened community connection. “All Bodies Centered.”

Terry Patten has a long history both as a social and environmental activist, and as a teacher, scholar and facilitator of leading edge spiritual practice. An author of four books, including A New Republic of the Heart: An Ethos for Revolutionaries, he has worked for forty years to integrate ancient and modern practices for raising consciousness. Today Terry will offer his deeply researched insights into how we can elevate our very way of being, conversing, and working together to address our collective predicament. This can only be done effectively if we come together in new ways. Our collective future requires it. What’s Really Happening in Our Crazy World, and How Can We Be the Change We Want to See?

Dr. Steven Herrmann, Jungian psychotherapist; author, poet, teacher and scholar. Steven is a certified Jungian analyst and analyst member of the C.G. Jung Institute of San Francisco, and member of the International Association for Analytical Psychology (IAAP). Steven will give an overview of Jung’s spiritual vision as it developed over time, and encompassed many fields of religion and a variety of myths across the world.  “Carl Jung’s Spirituality: Living the Symbolic Life.”

Rev. Dr. Jay Atkinson, Minister Emeritus, UU Church of Studio City; writer and teacher; research scholar at Starr King; UUCB member. Rev. Atkinson will discuss “Living Agnostically.”

James O’Hara is a former math instructor, massage instructor, dream worker, and a Brother in a Catholic religious order for 30 years. He is the author of a book about his experiences living in India and Nepal for 7 years, where he came to question his vows and beliefs and left the Brotherhood and the Church. Jim is currently writing a second book and will talk about the topic of his book. “Accidental Soul Work.”

Rev. Christian Schmidt, co-minister of the UU Church of Berkeley since 2016. Come and join us as Rev. Schmidt explores the intersection of religion, the public sphere, and government in “Church/State/Politics”. As campaigns begin (already!) to ramp for the 2020 elections, many of us are concerned about politics. Long-standing law has required religious organizations to be careful about how they interact with the elections process, but it’s never been more important for us to engage it. We’ll talk about how we can engage politics and why we must!

UUCB members are encouraged to participate in UUCB’s booth at the Solano Stroll.

Bill Garrett, became ill at the last minute. David Millgrom , from the audience, led a discussion on the freedom of speech and especially the press.  Sorry, no recording.

Contact:  Dorothy Herzberg
(510) 524-0649, dorothyherzberg@gmail.com

Contact:  Dorothy Herzberg
(510) 524-0649, dorothyherzberg@gmail.com

Please join us to help evaluate past speakers as well as offer suggestions for future topics and/or speakers. Your input and ideas are important to keeping the Personal Theology program current and meaningful.

Dr. Victoria Lee is a UUCB member, holds a doctoral degree, two master’s degrees and a B.A. degree from Georgetown University, Western Graduate School, and George Washington University. Victoria is a licensed clinical psychologist, a couples’ counselor and a certified sex therapist. She is a past-President of Santa Clara Valley Marriage and Family Therapists, and is a past Director of the Masters in Counseling Program at College of Notre Dame. “Sacred Relationships and Sacred Sexuality.”

Dr. Bernard Schlager is Associate Professor of Historical & Cultural Studies and Executive Director, Center for LGBTQ and Gender Studies, in Religion (CLGS) at Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley. His research interests include queer studies, the history of Christianity, LGBT pastoral care, and medieval social and religious history. He has published articles on ancient church history, medieval hagiography, the history of sexuality, and the history of education, and has recently co-authored with David Kundtz the second edition of their book: Ministry Among God’s Queer Folk: LGBT Pastoral Care (2018). Dr. Schlager will explore the connections between Christianity and the LGBTQ liberation movement in US History. “Queer and Christian.”

Rev. Lehel Molnár is the 2018-2019 Balazs Scholar at Starr King School for the Ministry. After his graduating from the Unitarian Faculty of the Protestant Theological Institute in Kolozsvár, he was then appointed as the archivist. He is presently a PHD student at the University of Szeged (Hungary) where his dissertation is on the Cultural and Church History of Transylvania between 1690-1725. “The Hungarian Unitarian Church Celebrates 450 Years; Preserving its Archival Heritage.”

Lois Snipes Atkinson is a retired social service worker and teacher, student of eclecticism, and UUCB member. “Religious, Not Spiritual.”

No session.

Stephen Miller, LCSW, is a Therapist in Psychiatry Dept at Kaiser for 24 years, currently teaching Anxiety, Anger and Sleep classes at Kaiser In Solano county. “Serenity Now.”

Dr. W. Frederick Shaw is a UUCB member and the CEO and founder of Developing Indigenous Resources, which empowers people living in slums of developing countries to provide their own health and human services. TBA

Rev. Dr. Chris Schriner is Minister Emeritus of Mission Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation in Fremont and a retired psychotherapist. He is the author of six books, including including Bridging the God Gap: Finding Common Ground Among Believers, Atheists and Agnostics. “The Mystery of Consciousness.”

Phil Cousineau is a long-time collaborator with the late Dr. Huston Smith. Phil is a freelance writer, documentary filmmaker, and author of over 35 books, including The Hero’s Journey: the Life and Work of Joseph Campbell. He has over 20 documentary film credits and since 2009 has been host of Global Spirit on PBS and Link TV and a guest host on New Dimensions Radio. In 1999, he and his film partner, Gary Rhine organized a group of ten Native American leaders to accompany Dr. Huston Smith to the Parliament of World Religions in South Africa. His presentation will discuss the impassioned conversations and profound dialogues from the parliament, and will include film clips from their award-winning documentary, as well as other insights gathered from his decades of work with Huston Smith, including Huston’s distinctions between religion and spirituality, personal and collective theology, and his ultimately triumphant philosophy of living our lives in a spirit of rejoicing. “A Seat at the Table: Struggling for American Indian Religious Freedom.”

Dr. Judith Berling, an Episcopalian-Confucian-Daoist, dean and professor emerita of Chinese and comparative religions at the Graduate Theological Union in Berkeley. “Learning to ‘Unsettle’ Myself:  A Spiritual Journey.’”

Rev Kristin Schmidt, one of our Senior Co-Ministers, will share her reflections on the place where theology and real life meet. “What Really Matters.”

Dr. Beverly Allen, Prof. Emerita at Syracuse University, visiting professor at Stanford. “Marija Gimbutas’ Archaeology of the Sacred Feminine.”

Lonnie Moseley, (UUCB Membership Co-Chair, Member of UUCB Program Council, Nominating Committee, and Social Justice Committee) and Cordell Sloan (UUCB Board of Trustee, technology guru; dream expert; jazz musician, and son of Rev. Cordell Sloan, Sr).  “Hidden Messages within Negro Spirituals.”

Alex Pappas, retired College of Alameda instructor of world religions and psychology (40+ years), past president of the Theosophical Society in Oakland, writer, a student of comparative religion especially nondual paths such as Vedanta, Theosophy, Alice A. Bailey and esoteric Buddhism. He has lectured at various locations including Germany, Turkey, India and US. His book Heaven and Nirvana is a comprehensive text of dual and nondual religious traditions. “The Great Mystery; An Approach to Reality; East Meets West.”

Rev. Dr. Matthew Fox is a spiritual theologian, an Episcopal priest and an activist for gender justice and eco-justice.  As a spiritual theologian he has written 37 books that have been translated into over 60 languages. Fox holds a doctorate in the history and theology of spirituality from the Institut Catholique de Paris and is the founder of the University of Creation Spirituality in California. Rev Fox is a recipient of many distinguished awards. His topic is “Naming the Unnameable: 89 Wonderful and Useful Names for God.”

Oren Jay Sofer, teacher of meditation and communication nationally. A member of the Spirit Rock Teachers Council, he holds a degree in Comparative Religion from Columbia University and is author of Say What You Mean: A Mindful Approach to Nonviolent Communication. “Living our Values: Speaking and Listening with Awareness.” 

Hana Matt (see bio above). “Ways to Transform Stress and Cultivate Resilience: From The World’s Religions and Modern Scientific Studies.”

Hana Matt, teacher of world religions at GTU and Interfaith Chaplaincy; author, spiritual director, and counselor. “Ways to Cultivate Vibrancy and Flourishing: From The World’s Religions and Modern Scientific Studies.”

Rev. Dr. Sue Magidson, lifelong UU; UUCB member for over 20 years; UUCB Community Minister. Ordained a UU minister, Sue serves as a hospital chaplain at San Leandro Hospital. She considers herself a professional listener. “Radical Listening as Spiritual Practice: The Transformative Power of Giving Someone Our Undivided Attention.”

Rev. Dr. Jane Ramsey, UUCB Community Minister and a Spiritual Care Provider (chaplain) for Napa Valley Hospice and Adult Day Center. Rev. Ramsey facilitates grief support groups, aging groups and leads workshops in death related issues.

No Session. Happy New Year!

No Session. Happy Holidays!

Jeanne Foster, professor emeritus at Saint Mary’s College, poet, memoir writer, and translator, former minister, UUCB Worship Associate and choir member, and author of five books; the latest is The Living Theatre, a translation of selected poems by the Italian poet Bianca Tarozzi. It was nominated for the Northern California Book Critics Award for 2017. “Lessons from a Tuscan Grasshopper.”

James O’Hara, PhD, educator, experienced dream worker and author of In the Land of Shiva, A Memoir. He studied with Jeremy Taylor in 1986, and subsequently co-facilitated many dream groups with Jeremy. Jim embraces the core of Jeremy’s philosophy: the wisdom of our dreams is available to each one of us, not just to professionals in the field. “A Tribute to Jeremy Taylor by Jim O’Hara: The Multiple Meanings in Dreams.”

Rev. Dr. Jay Atkinson, Minister Emeritus, UU Church of Studio City; writer and teacher; research scholar at Starr King; UUCB member. Forty years after Martin Luther opened the floodgates of Protestantism in 1517, our UU ancestors on the radical fringe of the Reformation were forming churches by 1558 in Poland and ten years later in Transylvania.  Where do we stand 500 years later?  Are we still on the radical edge?  And what’s left to do? “500 Years of Protestant Reformation: What’s Left for UUs to Do?”

Wyndy J. Knox Carr, see bio above.”Transition and the Only Way out is Through.”

Wyndy J. Knox Carr, writer, mother of four, librarian-archivist, book reviewer, discoverer of roots from the Women Poets of the Twin Cities to Jeremy Taylor’s dream work groups, and new UUCB member. “Here I Am, Lord: Rediscovering Practices of Self-Worth and Community for Now and Our Future. Part 1.”

Dr. Bill Garrett, former Professor of Religion and Philosophy at JFK University, UC Berkeley and now teaches at OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute). “The Living Universe: Astrobiology and the Deep Story of the Origins of Life.”

D. Patrick Miller, author, investigative journalist, publisher, editor, literary agent, and Fearless Books and Literary Services operator.  He has intensively studied “A Course in Miracles,” the Enneagram system of personality, Jungian depth psychology, shamanism, and related fields of contemporary spirituality. “How to Be Spiritual Without Being Religious.”

Deborah Schmidt, UUCB member since 2005, former UUCB Board of Trustees President, Coordinating Team convener, and a volunteer coordinator.  She teaches music and writes memoir, family history and poetry. “This Singing World:” a poetry reading celebrating nature, human connection, love, and music.

Rev. Christian Schmidt, UUCB’s Senior Co-Minister, mystical humanist. “Living in Anxious Times.”

Rabbi Harry Manhoff, PhD, a superfan and collector of comic books, a Congregational Rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom in San Leandro, a lecturer at St. Mary’s College, and an author. “Politics and Prayer: The History of the Siddur (Jewish Prayer).”

James Baraz, founding teacher of Spirit Rock Meditation Center, co-author of Awakening Joy: Ten Steps to Happiness, and guiding teacher of Insight Meditation Community of Berkeley. “Equanimity: Finding Balance in Difficult Times.”

Ron Campbell, multiple award-winning theater artist, poet and Cirque du Soleil clown. “Clown Knows:  What the Lessons of a Lifetime of Performing Can Teach Us About the Pitfalls (and Pratfalls) of Becoming a Better Human.”

Carolyn West, Associate Minister for Worship and Director of Religious Education and a teacher of “World Religions for Curious People” at Northbrae Community Church. She is a published poet, essayist, and storyteller, with an MFA from Warren Wilson College. “Wisdom Traditions Respond to the Soul’s Human Cry.”

Two UUCB visionaries, Cordell Sloan and Karen Voorhees, discuss their take on what the future is likely to hold for us. Karen brings her knowledge of Big History (PhD, cultural history) and spirituality (36 years as a meditator). Cordell brings his knowledge of UU history, his background in tech and his own deeply grounded spirituality. “We Have Seen This Movie Before: Reasons for Optimism About the Future in Spite of Today’s Headlines.”

Rev. Dr. John Buehrens (see bio above.) Part 2: “The Forgotten Female Transcendentalists.” 

Why we should know more about such women as Elizabeth Peabody, Margaret Fuller, Lydia Maria Child, Caroline Healey Dall, and Julia Ward Howe, among others. Brief stories of each will help to expand our understanding of the Transcendentalists’ role in helping to launch the American movement for women’s rights.

Rev. Dr. John Buehrens, Harvard College and Harvard Divinity School graduate, former UUA President, retired Senior Minister of the First UU Society of San Francisco. He is also the author of six books, the latest of which is Transcendentalist Disciples: Spiritual Friendships Among Boston Leaders for Anti-Slavery, Women’s Rights, and Social Reform, 1830-1885. Rev. Buehrens will discuss “The Transcendentalists: Roots and Wings. Part 1: What You Don’t Know You Don’t Know About the Transcendentalists.”

May 27: Planning and Evaluation. Please join us to help evaluate past speakers as well as offer suggestions for future topics and/or speakers. Your input and ideas are important to keeping the Personal Theology program current and meaningful.

May 20: Rev. Emese Bodor, Balazs Scholar at Starr King School for the Ministry, ordained Unitarian minister in Romania, and religious teacher and school chaplain at the János Zsigmond Unitarian High School. “The Importance of Education in Transylvanian Unitarian Communities.”

May 13: Lonnie Moseley (UUCB Membership Co-Chair) and Cordell Sloan (UUCB Board member and Stewardship Chair). “A Black Catholic/Christian Couple Wakes up One Morning as Unitarian Universalists.”

May 6: Imam Wali Muhammed, spiritual leader of the Muslim Mission Center in Richmond, CA. “Al-Islam.”

Apr. 29: Alex Pappas, former teacher of World Religions at College of Alameda and avid student of the ancient traditions. “The Metaphors of Reality: The Ageless Wisdom; Occult, Hermetic and Theosophic Teachings and Their Relevance in Today’s World of Maya.”

Apr 22: Dr. Steven Herrmann, Jungian psychotherapist; author, poet, teacher and scholar; candidate in analytical training at C.G. Jung Institute, San Francisco. “Emily Dickinson: A Medicine Woman for Our Times.” Among the 19th century poets, Emily Dickinson is by far the most scientifically minded. Science is the voice that summoned Dickinson at Mount Holyoke Female Seminary and gave her unique distinction as a poetess of botanical and entomological and astronomical classifications. Like no other 19th century poet she forms an integration between science and spirituality. She studied at Holyoke at the exact historical moment of the first Women’s Rights Convention in 1848. This talk speaks up for the Divine Feminine. When Steven Herrmann refers to Emily Dickinson as a Medicine Woman, he is speaking of an archetype of healing within all humans. Her poems are enduring imprints of the Medicine Woman archetype. It is by access to the Medicine Woman archetype that she’s able to espouse a democracy of equality that the world needs right now. She advises women to cherish “Power” and take heed from the Serpent. We need a Medicine Woman to balance things out. In a democratic sense, she’s a fierce and uncompromising spokeswoman for Liberty. She is a dispenser of a new American myth for our times.

Apr 15: Rev. Cat Cox, UUCB Community Minister, spiritual director, teacher, certified dream worker and workshop facilitator.  “I’m a Weird Woman and I’m Getting Weirder!” Rev. Cat says: ”I first heard (and immediately loved) this great line from a woman in her 90s. Now I’m claiming it! The original meaning of “weird” is “in touch with the ‘other side’” – the non-physical dimension of existence.  Let’s explore what it has meant for great spiritual teachers through the ages to be “weird” in this sense — and why you might like to get weirder, too!”

Dr. Bill Garrett, Professor of Philosophy and Religion, has taught at JFK University, San Francisco State, Fromm Institute, California Institute of Integral Studies, and Osher Lifelong Learning Institute. “Playing with Fire: The Dangerous Infatuation with Hate in 21^st Century American Politics.”

Dr. Shahara Godfrey, Buddhist teacher and mindfulness coach, humanitarian and mixed-media artist, is a graduate of the Spirit Rock Community Dharma Leadership Program and the Path of Engagement programs. She received her Ph.D. in Humanities with a focus on Transformative Learning and Change from the California Institute of Integral Studies. In addition, she is a core teacher at the East Bay Medita

tion Center in Oakland. A self-taught mixed-media artist, she has exhibited in the Bay Area, Oregon, Washington, Atlanta and Los Angeles. “A Celebration of Life through Accepting Grief.”

Mar 18. Br. Bede Healey OSB Cam, PhD, Camaldolese Benedictine monk at Incarnation Monastery in Berkeley, clinical psychologist. He has served in various capacities, including Professor, Hermit, Director of Religion and Psychiatry, Consultant, workshop provider, Treasurer. He has a deep interest in the intersection between psychology and Christian spirituality. “The Psychological Roots of Believing.”

You may listen to the talk by clicking on the bar above to start the audio playing.

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Mar 11: Rev. Dr. Chris Schriner, Minister Emeritus of Mission Peak Unitarian Universalist Congregation. He graduated from the University of Redlands, majoring in religion, philosophy, and psychology. He received a Doctorate in Religion from Claremont School of Theology and an MS in Marriage, Family and Child Counseling from the University of LaVerne. “Bridging the God Gap: Finding Common Ground Among Believers, Atheists and Agnostics.”

Mar 4: Charlie Wright is one of Personal Theology’s audio Technicians and helper, and the spouse of Kit Hewitt (UUCB member and Leader of Write for Your Life Group).  He is a regular participant of Personal Theology and has kindly agreed to step in to give a seminar when Rev Dr. Sue Magidson, UUCB Community minister, came down with the flu. Come and hear Charlie’s seminar on “How I Got to UUCB.”

Feb 25: Dr. Kendra Smith, psychotherapist, trainer and coach; teacher of metta and vipassana meditation; and longtime UUCB member. “Consciousness After Death?  Investigation and Personal Experience.” For many persons, this topic is unsettling and controversial, but there has been some serious investigation and for centuries there have been reports of communication with persons “on the other side.”  Saint Augustine was one of these reporters. The belief that when the brain flatlines it ends consciousness is a culture-bound belief.  Kendra will speak of investigations and of her own experience. She will also touch on the relationship between some forms of meditation and out-of-the-ordinary experiences.

Feb 18: Dr. Matthew Fox (internationally acclaimed spiritual theologian, Episcopal priest, activist, author and professor; founder of University of Creation Spirituality), Jennifer Listug (writer, spiritual leader, and publicist), and Skylar Wilson (wilderness guide, leader of inter-cultural ceremonies). The authors will discuss “Order of the Sacred Earth,” an intergenerational community of sacred activists who have vowed to be the best lovers and defenders of the Earth that we can be.”

Feb 11: Dr. Irene Sardanis, retired psychologist turned writer. She’s been published in The Sun magazine and many anthologies, most recently The Magic of Memoir and Women in the Americas. She will publish her memoir in 2019, Beating the Bronx, Tales from a Greek Immigrant Daughter. “Writing as a Spiritual Practice.”

Dr. Karen Voorhees, UUCB member, writer. In 1981, while working on her Ph.D. in cultural history, Karen Voorhees began meditating and discovered levels of truth and beauty beyond the intellectual. Since then she has meditated two to three hours daily while pursuing her intellectual interests, including the work of Ken Wilber, outside academia

. “The Future of Religion; A Report on Ken Wilber’s What Now Conference.”

Hana Matt, (see bio above). “Overcoming Anxiety and Coming to Inner Peace and Effectiveness.”

Hana Matt, teacher of world religions at GTU and Interfaith Chaplaincy; author, spiritual director, and counselor. “Transforming Worry.”

Merrin Clough, lifelong UU, Director of Family Ministry at UUCB; trained as an educator; hiker, seamstress and poet. “Searching Truth, Finding Purpose.”

Rev. Craig Scott, (new) retired lawyer and UU Minster, UUCB member, social advocate, and Schweitzer Award winner. “Hate Cannot Drive out Hate: Yellow Tee Shirts in a Troubled Time.”

Happy New Year!

Happy Holidays!!

Dr. Jeremy Taylor, (see bio above). “Since There Is ALWAYS More Going on Than Meets the Eye, Curiosity Is the Most Important Spiritual Energy We Have At Our Disposal.”

Dr. Jeremy Taylor, pioneer in dream work, author of several books on dream symbolism, methodology and archetypal energy, teacher, UU minister. “The Power of (Archetypal) Symbols – Awake and Asleep.”

Dr. David Presti, UC Berkeley professor of neurobiology, author of Foundational Concepts in Neuroscience: A Brain-Mind Odyssey. “The Boundary between Biophysical Science and Concepts of Spirit and Soul.”

Dr. Richard Stromer, a longtime student of mythology as a pathway for both psychological and spiritual development. He has a doctorate in Mythological Studies from Pacifica Graduate Institute, home of the Joseph Campbell Library and Archives. “Joseph Campbell and the Religious Function of Myth”

Rev. Kristin Grassel Schmidt, UUCB’s Senior Co-Minister, long-time UU member, singer, and Star Trek enthusiast. A mother of two, Rev Kristin will share some of her thoughts and experiences in “Holy Chaos: Spirituality in Parenting.”

Jeanne Foster, UU minister, UUCB Worship Associate and Choir member. She is also Professor Emerita of English Literature and Creative Writing at Saint Mary’s College, co-editor of Appetite: Food as Metaphor, an anthology of poems by women (BOA), a poet and author of several books, the latest of which are Goodbye, Silver Sister and The Living Theater: Selected Poems of Bianca Tarozzi. Jeanne will share some thoughts on how what you love can be a pilgrimage in “Doing What You Love as a Pilgrimage.”

Rabbi Harry Manhoff, a superfan and collector of comic books, is a Congregational Rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom in San Leandro, a lecturer at St.Mary’s College, and an author. He has a doctorate on the New Testament and Christian Origins. “Why I love Sukkot.”

Dr. Bill Garrett, former Professor of religion and philosophy at JFK University and UC Berkeley and now teaches at OLLI (Osher Lifelong Learning Institute). He will give a seminar on  “Help not Needed: The Disappearance of Employment– A Coming Spiritual Crisis.”

Rev. Heng Sure, Buddhist monk, director of the Berkeley Buddhist Monastery, scholar, GTU alumnus, teacher at Pacific School of Religion (PSR), musician, singer-songwriter, storyteller, and youth leader. “Guarding the Candle in a High Wind: Sources of Hope.”

Susan Moon, writer, teacher, former editor of Turning Wheel, the journal of socially engaged Buddhism, author of many books, such as This Is Getting Old: Zen Thoughts on Aging with Dignity and Humor. “From Small Self to Big Self: Accepting myself as I am, and realizing my connection with all beings.”

Linda Heiderer, part time resident of Findhorn, has taken to pilgrimages as a spiritual pathway and has among other things walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain. “Findhorn: A Spiritual Community in Northern Scotland.”

Claudia Miller, MA from Naropa University, Oakland, practitioner of non-violent communication and mediator who facilitates dialogues to find common ground and mutual respect. “Deep Listening as a Spiritual practice.”

Dr. Beverly Allen, Prof. Emerita at Syracuse University, visiting professor at Stanford. “Courtly Love and the Great Heresy: Medieval Ciphers and the Turning of The Church.”

Dr. Steven Herrmann, Jungian psychotherapist; poet, author, teacher and scholar; candidate in analytical training at C.G. Jung Institute, SF. “The Future of Transpersonal Psychology.”

Rev. Christian Schmidt, UUCB’s Senior Co-Minister, mystical Humanist, father. “The Problem of Hell: Universalism, Evil, and Our World.”

John Maes, UUCB member since 1998, former conscientious objector during the U.S. war in Southeast Asia, life long spiritual seeker and a perennial attendee of personal theology presentations. “Evidence Based Spirituality.”

Planning and Evaluation

Alex Pappas (see bio above). “Comparison of Swami Vivekananda’s Raja Yoga with the Yoga Sutras of Patanjali (8 Step Yoga Path).”

Alex Pappas is a retired community college teacher of World Religions and author of the book Heaven and Nirvana: Duality and Nonduality in the World Religions. He has traveled extensively to the sources of the religious traditions and spiritual paths that he teaches especially to India where, during thirteen visits, he lived and visited various Ashrams and spiritual centers.He will talk about “Religions as Theories of the Absolute Reality from a Dualistic and Non-Dualistic Point of View” 

Join us to hear Rev. Theresa Gallardo talk about the “Origins of Unitarian Universalism in the Philippines and Current Practice.” Rev. Gallardo is the first Balazs Scholar from the Philippines. She is a Unitarian Universalist lesbian minister from the Bicutan Congregation in Manila. She has served as a political organizer, consultant, resource speaker, and disaster relief volunteer in Nepal.

Indian Canyon Tribal Woman Ann-Marie Sayers to speak on  “The Importance of Sacred Spaces in These Turbulent Times.” Ann-Marie Sayers is a Matsun Ohlone Native American, the director of the Costanoan Indian Research Center and the traditional caretaker of Indian Canyon. Indian Canyon is the only sovereign Indian lands of central Coast California. She will discuss the “The Importance of Sacred Spaces in These Turbulent Times,”  enlightening the audience about some Native American cultural and spiritual practices.  “Come,” she says: “The Earth is alive. You can feel the energy. And it’s a reason for living.” 

Join us to hear Rev Craig Scott talk about the “Prophets of Resistance.” Rev. Scott is a retired lawyer, UU minister and a UUCB member.  A social activist and community organizer, Rev Scott is involved in many of CCISCO (the Contra Costa Interfaith Supporting Community Organizing) activities and supports the Greater Richmond Interfaith Program (GRIP).

No session!  Happy holiday!

Come and hear Cat Zavis discuss “The Role of Spirituality in a Time of Political Crisis.”  Ms. Zavis is an attorney, a mediator, a child advocate, author and a trainer in emphatic communications. She is the Executive Director of The Network of Spiritual Progressives (NSP), which seeks to transform our materialist and corporate-dominated society into a caring society through consciousness raising, advocacy, and public awareness campaigns.

Kit Hewitt, former member of the Personal Theology Committee, a UUCB member, and the present facilitator of the Write for Your Life group, succeeding Beth Riemer. When our scheduled speaker failed to show up, Kit volunteered to step forward to talk extemporaneously.  Thank you Kit!  The title of her talk is “My Personal Theology.”

She writes: “Born in Hawaii to a military family. Lived in Hawaii, Delaware, Mississippi, Redwood City, Mississippi, Sacramento, and Maine before the end of Second Grade. The first story I wrote was to the tune of “Afternoon of a faun” when I was 10. At 13 I was reading Dostoevsky and Lewis Carroll with equal interest. Rod McKuen gave me the idea that it was possible to write poetry about my life. Joseph Heller gave me similar ideas about writing books.  Received BA from SF State on my 30th birthday and MA in 1991. I started to figure out how to be a writer when I started having an audience of people who were interested in what I had to say. Beth Glick-Rieman was a huge influence in that she taught me to listen to my own voice and actually hear what I was saying. I have lived in Berkeley for 21 years with my husband, Charlie.”

Dr. Bill Garrett, past professor of religion and philosophy at JFK University and UC Berkeley; now teaches through the Osher Lifelong Learning Program. “Thinking through the Anthropocene.”

Bill Garrett, Ph.D., past professor of religion and philosophy at JFK University and UC Berkeley; now teaches through the Osher Lifelong Learning Program. “The Re-emergence of Paganism in the 21st Century: It’s Not What You May Think.”

Rev. Christian Schmidt, new Senior UUCB Co-Minister, “Detoxifying Masculinity.” Rev. Schmidt has a Masters of  Divinity from Andover Newton Divinity School; he  is a Unitarian Universalsit, a father,  and a Humanist. He blogs: How can we as a church support the healthy growth and development of boys and men? In a world that pushes a view of masculinity that constricts the way men are “allowed” to be and act, and simultaneously hurts both those men and all other people, presenting a positive view of what masculinity can and should look like should be an important part of what we do at UUCB. In “Detoxifying Masculinity,”  the Rev. Schmidt will talk about his own experiences of growing up as a male, and how the church can support the development of healthy men and boys.

Rev. Cathleen Cox, UUCB community minister, spiritual director, teacher, certified dream worker and workshop facilitator; 2002 recipient of the Margaret Fuller Award of UU Women’s Federation. “Jesus: Radical Teacher of Love in Action.”

Email Mac@Lingos.US if you would like a download version of this talk.

Charles Tart, Ph.D., author of numerous books, including two widely used textbooks; researcher on consciousness and parapsychology. “In search of Enlightenment and Knowledge: Highlights from the Life Journey of a Transpersonal  Para(Neuro)Psychologist. (Part 2) Scientific and Spiritual Smorgasbord.”

Father Arthur Poulin, local Camaldolese Benedictine priest & monk; internationally renowned painter. He views painting as a sacred journey, working from darkness to lightness, from the unknown to the known, and from chaos to unity. “The Spirituality of Creativity.”

Ron Campbell, International theatre artist, writer, painter, martial artist, sailor and Cirque du Soleil clown,  “In Search of the Mask of Satori. A performer’s journey on the path to selfhood.”

Matthew Fox, Ph.D., internationally acclaimed spiritual theologian, Episcopal priest, activist, author and professor; founder of University of Creation Spirituality.  “The Contemplative and Sacred Activism of Thomas Merton.”

Hana Matt (see bio above) “Increase Your Happiness: Methods from Scientific Studies and the World’s Religions.” (Part 2)

Hana Matt, teacher of world religions at GTU and Interfaith Chaplaincy; author; spiritual director and counselor. “Increase Your Happiness; Methods from Scientific Studies and the World’s Religions.” (Part 1)

Cordell Sloan, UUCB member, a technology guru, a dream expert, and a jazz musician. In the early 1960s, young Cordell and his brother Clifford were enrolled by their father, the Rev. Cordell Sloan Sr., in a white school. When denied admission, Rev. Sloan sued and won, resulting in the desegregation of public schools in Wilson County, Tennessee. “The History and Theology of Martin Luther King, Jr.”

The Rev. Kristin Grassel Schmidt, UUCB’s new Senior Co-Minister, long-time UU member, mother, singer, and Star Trek enthusiast, will share some of her personal theological grounding and explore her conviction that growing deeper liberal faith is the most important work we as a community can do for our hurting world today. “Guide My Feet.”

Jeremy Taylor, “An Oak Tree is NOT an Unsuccessful Evergreen: Finding our Own Unique Paths through the Forest of Conventional Possibilities.” Dr. Taylor is an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister, He is a Professor of Dreamwork and Archetypal Studies; he has worked with dreams for over forty years. He blends the values of spirituality with an active social conscience and a Jungian perspective. He is the founding member and past president of the International Association for the Study of Dreams. He has written four books integrating dream symbolism, mythology, and archetypal energy.

“Looking Below the Surface of Appearance: Ethical and Historical Necessity of Acknowledging the Unconscious.” Dr. Taylor is an ordained Unitarian Universalist minister, He is a Professor of Dreamwork and Archetypal Studies; he has worked with dreams for over forty years. He blends the values of spirituality with an active social conscience and a Jungian perspective. He is the founding member and past president of the International Association for the Study of Dreams. He has written four books integrating dream symbolism, mythology, and archetypal energy.

“How Might We Build a More Empathic Culture?” Edwin Rutsch is the founding director of the Center for Building a Culture of Empathy and the founder of the International Empathy Trainers Association. The center’s website, CultureOfEmpathy.com, is the internet’s most comprehensive portal for empathy-related material, including interviews with over 300 experts on the topic. He is a world traveler, a “seeker,” a documentary filmmaker and has worked in the computer technology field. In his travels, he has interacted with a wide variety of cultures and peoples from all walks of life and learned to see and feel the common humanity of all people on the planet.

UUCB member Cordell Sloan will speak on “Putting Recent Brain Science to Good Use: Practical Tactics for Better Living and Smarter Aging.” In the early 1960s, Rev. Cordell Sloan Sr. enrolled his sons, young Cordell and his brother, in a white school, sued when denied admission and won, resulting in the desegregation of public schools in Wilson County, Tennessee. Cordell is now a technology guru, a dream expert, and a jazz musician.

Ray Nelson will discuss “What is Inspiration?” He is a local science fiction writer, cartoonist and propeller beanie inventor and a long-time UUCBer. Ray studied theology at University of Chicago and spent four years studying in Paris among the Beat Generation and existentialists like Jean Paul Sartre and Simone de Beauvoir.

Come hear Dr. Bryan Baker’s seminar on “Finding a Shared Vision through Collaboration.” Dr. Baker is the Director of Music at UUCB and the Luminescence Choir. He conducts for Masterworks Chorale and the San Francisco Choral Society. He has served on the faculties of College of San Mateo, San Francisco State University, Foothill College, and Arizona State University. Dr. Baker has played solo concerts, chamber music, and accompanied vocal recitals across the United States and in Europe and South America.

Join us to hear Carolyn West give a talk on “More than a Hero.” Ms. West, the Director of Religious Education and storyteller at Northbrae Community Church in Berkeley, teaches classes on mythology and stories. She is also an essayist and a poet; and she has been sharing world stories with the kids—and adults—m

ost Sunday mornings since 2004.

Shahara Godfrey, Ph.D., will speak on “Social Responsibility and Spirituality: A Buddhist Perspective.” Dr. Godfrey, Buddhist teacher and mindfulness coach, humanitarian and mixed-media artist, is a graduate of the Spirit Rock Community Dharma Leadership Program and the Path of Engagement programs. She received her Ph.D. in Humanities with a focus on Transformative Learning and Change from the California Institute of Integral Studies. In addition, she is a core teacher at the East Bay Meditation Center in Oakland. A self-taught mixed-media artist, she has exhibited in the Bay Area, Oregon, Washington, Atlanta and Los Angeles.

Hear world-renowned psychologist Charles T. Tart, Ph.D., give a seminar on “In Search of Enlightenment and Knowledge: Highlights from the Life Journey of a Transpersonal Para(Neuro)Psychologist.” Dr. Tart is internationally known for his psychological work on the nature of consciousness (particularly, altered states of consciousness), as one of the founders of the field of transpersonal psychology, and for his research in parapsychology. He is a part-time executive faculty member at Sofia University and Professor Emeritus of Psychology at UC Davis.

(Part 2, Scientific and Spiritual Smorgasbord will be presented on Feb 26, 2017)

Come and hear Elizabeth Fisher give a talk on “Gifts Goddesses Offer.” She is the author of the UU Women’s Federation course Rise Up and Call Her Name: A Woman-honoring Journey into Global Earth-based Spiritualities and a variety of other publications. She received the Covenant of Unitarian Universalist Pagans’ Margaret Fuller–Henry David Thoreau Award for furthering understanding of earth-centered philosophy and is included on a list of the Thirteen Most Influential People in Women’s Spirituality.

Ronald Nakasone, Ph.D., will speak on “Spiritual Genealogy.” Dr. Nakasone is Senior Lecturer in Buddhist Art and Culture and member of the Core Doctoral Faculty at the Graduate Theological Union (GTU) in Berkeley. He is also on the faculty of the Stanford University Geriatric Education Center. He has published more than 100 academic books and articles on aging and spirituality; Buddhist doctrine, ethics, and aesthetics; and Okinawan studies. He is also an expert in the art of sho (Japanese calligraphy).

Beverly Allen and Frank Ferrante will discuss “Forgiveness.” Frank Ferrante is the award-winning author of May I Be Frank? How I Changed My Ways, Lost 100 Pounds, and Found Love Again. Beverly Allen, Ph.D., is an author, former journalist, screenwriter, lecturer and teacher in the humanities and spiritual traditions, currently focusing on the sacred feminine. She has taught at UC Santa Cruz, Stanford, OLLI, Cornell, the University of Zagreb, and Syracuse University where she is a Professor Emerita.

Come hear Jungian psychotherapist Steven Herrmann, Ph.D., MFT, who specializes in dream work and vocational development. He will present “Vocational Dreams,” in which he will discuss dreams, their meanings, and vocational significance. He is the author of William Everson: The Shaman’s Call; Walt Whitman: Shamanism, Spiritual Democracy, and the World Soul; and Spiritual Democracy: The Wisdom of Early American Visionaries for the Journey Forward.

Dr. Jeanne Foster, author and prize-winning poet; professor of English at St. Mary’s College. “The Dream that Almost Got Away.”

Come hear renowned storyteller and recording artist Joel Ben Izzy. He will share stories about Rwanda and charm us with stories particularly suited to the arrival of fall, helping us think about how to reap and hold the tales from our own lives. He’ll also be sharing stories exploring just how it is that curses become blessings—as befits a gathering on this date.

We begin the semester with Rabbi Tsvi Bar-David, founder and director of Beit Simchah…the House of Joy, whose mission is to provide workshops in Jewish Mysticism and Sacred Song. He has been teaching Jewish text and practice for many years, is a hospital chaplain, a methadone counselor and a spiritual counselor. He’s done counseling work in the prison system. Rabbi Tsvi will speak on “Dveikut in Jewish Mysticism: The Direct Experience of the Beloved”.

Sister Carmel is member of the Religious Sisters of Mercy; she’s worked in education and prison ministry and has done restorative justice work in San Quentin.

Sara Lefkowitz is an RN, BSN, MPA, Nurse Educator; facilitator in Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction; she’s active in the SF Bay Area Tara Mandala Sangha.

Alex Pappas is an author and retired teacher of World Religions at College of Alameda; he’s an avid student of the ancient traditions and Theosophy.

Alex Pappas is an author and retired teacher of World Religions at College of Alameda; he’s an avid student of the ancient traditions and Theosophy.

Ameena Jandali is a founding member of Islamic Networks Group; instructor at San Francisco City College; author of training modules for public institutions on developing relations with the American Muslim community.

Rhonda Servin is an artist, writer and storyteller; she has a book in progress titled U: The Universe Chronicles; UUCB member.

James O’Hara is author of In the Land of Shiva; former Catholic Brother and teacher whose life changed when he visited India and Nepal.

Harry Manhoff is the Congregational Rabbi at Temple Beth Sholom in San Leandro; author; lecturer at St. Mary’s College; he has a doctorate in the New Testament.

Cathleen Cox is a Community Minister for UUCB, spiritual director, teacher, certified dream worker and workshop facilitator; 2002 recipient of the Margaret Fuller Award of UU Women’s Federation.

Beverly Allen is a PhD, Professor Emerita at Syracuse University; visiting professor at Stanford; and author. Frank Ferrante is an award-winning author of May I Be Frank. They will have a conversation on the topic of transformation.

Matthew Fox is an internationally acclaimed spiritual theologian, Episcopal priest, activist, author and professor; founder of the University of Creation Spirituality.

Bill Garrett is a past professor at JFK University and UC Berkeley; now teaches through the Osher Lifelong Learning Program. He will discuss current research on the intersection of dog evolution with the story of humanity.

Bill Garrett is a past professor at JFK University and UC Berkeley; now teaches through the Osher Lifelong Learning Program.

Nicoletta Karam is a bay area educator with a Ph.D. in Arab-American history; author of The 9/11 Backlash and other writings.

Nancy Abrams is a lawyer, author of several books, activist, scientist and philosopher and a Fulbright Scholar; she was interviewed by Deepak Chopra as part of his Deepak Homebase series and has lectured at NASA.

Susan Moon is a writer, editor, and lay teacher in the Soto Zen tradition; author of a number of books about Buddhism, including The Hidden Lamp: Stories from Twenty-Five Centuries of Awakened Women.

Rev. László Major, the current Balázs Scholar at Starr King School for the Ministry, studied in Transylvania. He is the Parish Minister at the Unitarian Congregation of Dakt.

Jay Atkinson, Minister Emeritus, UU Church of Studio City; writer and teacher; research scholar at Starr King; UUCB member. Our Universalist Heritage.This seminar addresses the historical aspect of Universalism and its relationship to today’s Unitarian Universalist faith.

Rosemary Bray McNatt, President of Starr King School for the Ministry; author of three books, including her memoir Unafraid of the Dark; former editor at N.Y. Times Book Review. What Unitarian Universalism Looks Like Twenty Years from Now.

SORRY….audio not available for this event.

Hana Matt, teacher of world religions at GTU and Interfaith Chaplaincy; author and lecturer; spiritual director and counselor. The Divine Feminine: Hindu/Buddhist Beliefs.

Hana Matt, teacher of world religions at GTU and Interfaith Chaplaincy; author and lecturer; spiritual director and counselor. The Divine Feminine: Native/Indigenous Beliefs.

Rev. Theresa Hardy, UUCB Chaplain with VITAS Innovative Hospice Care in Fairfield; active in UUCB youth programs. Perspectives on Grief, Death, and Dying in the Present Day.

Jeremy Taylor, pioneer in dream work; author of several books on dream symbolism, mythology and archetypal energy; teacher and UU minister.

Jeremy Taylor, pioneer in dream work; author of several books on dream symbolism, mythology and archetypal energy; teacher and UU minister. In Praise of Confusion.

Tony Bushman, life coach, pastoral counselor, consultant and professor; group, workshop and retreat leader; world traveler and photographer. Paying Attention to What Has Heart & Meaning.

David Lingenfelter, UUCB member for over 30 years; PhD in Chemistry from UCLA; scholar. Cosmic Considerations: Matter and Energy, Darkness and Light.

Jhos Singer, Maggid/Congregational Leader of Chochmat HaLev, a Center for Jewish Spirituality in Berkeley; preacher, spiritualist and story teller; he’ll share some Jewish gastronomic and spiritual insights. Food and Gratitude: The Jewish Art of Eating Thankfully.

Pat LaDouceur, MFT; trained in neurofeedback, hypnotherapy, alpha-synchrony; author. Stress-Free Holidays: simple shifts you can make to keep your spirits up when life gets crazy.