Exploring Christianity, Social Justice, and Politics
Unpacking the Relationship
In this discussion, we will explore the intricate relationship between Christianity, social justice, and politics. Our aim is to provide thought-provoking insights into how one’s spiritual journey can intersect with a call to social action.
Jana’s Personal Journey
Jana will share how her exposure to different perspectives, including teachings from the Living School and historical church influences, will reshape her understanding of faith within these contexts. She will describe a transformative realization about Jesus’ ministry, emphasizing His focus on social justice and connection with marginalized communities. This challenges the Western Christian view of Jesus as solely a moral enforcer.
Redefining Beliefs and Political Engagement
Jana’s insights will highlight how religious beliefs can transcend political divisions and actively shape them. She will encourage Latter-day Saints to:
- Engage with Social Advocacy: Recognize the potential to influence societal change through compassionate action.
- Deconstruct Political Biases: Reflect on inherited beliefs and open up to broader perspectives.
- Embrace Universal Love and Compassion: Focus on the core Christian principles that advocate love and compassion for all.
By unpacking these themes, we aim to inspire a new understanding of faith that not only guides personal growth but also fosters meaningful social change.
Embracing the Paradox: How Non-Dual Thinking in the LDS Community Can Transform Spiritual Experience
The Concept of Non-Dual Thinking
We will delve into the power of non-dual thinking within the Latter-day Saints community. Highlighted in the Living School curriculum, non-dual thinking challenges the dualistic mindset that often characterizes early spiritual development. This approach encourages embracing paradox and understanding the ineffable nature of spiritual experiences.
Jana’s Perspective on Embracing Paradox
Jana will emphasize the necessity of understanding both extremes to fully appreciate the beauty found in paradox. She will explain that the human mind struggles to comprehend these opposites simultaneously, requiring a shift from an “either/or” mindset to a “both/and” way of thinking for profound spiritual transformation.
Shifting to a Transformational Spirituality
By accepting and integrating both extremes, individuals will transcend a transactional approach to spirituality and move toward a more transformative religious experience. This shift isn’t about abandoning one’s faith but expanding it to allow for:
- Personal Growth: Embrace new interpretations and perspectives that foster maturity.
- Broader Understanding: Explore diverse viewpoints that enrich one’s relationship with faith.
- Deeper Connection with the Divine: Build a stronger spiritual bond by appreciating the complexity and paradox of spiritual truths.
This journey will empower individuals to reshape their spirituality into something richer and more fulfilling, ultimately fostering a deeper connection with the divine and a more expansive religious life.
From Purity to Profanity and Beyond: Recontextualizing the Sacred in Modern Mormonism
Shifting Boundaries in Spirituality
In the evolving landscape of modern Mormonism, discussions about what is considered sacred will continue to change. Previously, clear lines were drawn between purity and profanity. However, an increasing number of Latter-day Saints artists and thinkers are broadening these definitions to create a more inclusive and complex spirituality.
Recontextualizing the Sacred
This shift calls for recontextualizing what is sacred, recognizing holiness in areas of life once deemed profane. The change encourages a willingness to embrace the entire human experience as a pathway to divine insight.
Embracing New Perspectives
This new outlook will challenge long-held beliefs and traditions, creating space for a form of sacredness that is:
- Resilient: Capable of withstanding diverse perspectives and cultural changes.
- Empathetic: Rooted in understanding the struggles and triumphs of others.
- Inclusive: Solidarity with humanity’s diverse voices ensures all experiences can lead to divine connection.
This transformation will help Latter-day Saints build a spirituality that is more deeply rooted in empathy, understanding, and inclusivity, allowing for a broader, more resilient sense of the sacred.