Vital Conversations meets the 2nd Wednesday of each month from 1:00p - 2:30p. All are welcome to join the group in conversations about books, movies, culture, and spirituality.

Vital Conversations is interested in attracting people from a variety of religious and spiritual perspectives in order to celebrate the gifts of pluralistic viewpoints. Participants aim to build relationships that honor our differences and celebrate our spiritual paths. View the contact's website at www.humanagenda.com.

Below is the schedule for Vital Conversations in 2010 *

April 14 Wisdom Walk:Nine Practices for Creating Peace and Balance from the World’s Spiritual Traditions by Sages Bennet.

This book invites you to explore rituals from different religions that can add value to your spiritual journey.

May 12 Can't Get There From Here by Todd Strasser.

Tired of being hungry, cold, and dirty from living on the streets of New York City with a tribe of homeless teenagers who are dying, one by one, a girl name Maybe ponders her future and longs for someone to care about her.

June 9 Conquering Fear: Living Boldly in an Uncertain World by Harold S. Kushner.

Guest facilitator Rabbi Allen Cohen who is assisting with other religious leaders to promote more Interfaith activities in the Northland.

July 14 Gathering Blue, a novel by Lois Lowry Kira.

An orphan with a twisted leg, lives in a world where the weak are cast aside. She fears for her future until the all-powerful Council of Guardians spares her. Kira is a gifted weaver and is given a task that no other community member can carry out. While her talent keeps her alive and brings certain privileges, Kira soon realizes that she is surrounded by mysteries and secrets. Non-one must know of her plans to uncover the truth about her world – and to find out what exists beyond it.

August 11 Encountering God by Diana L. Eck.

In a splendid exposition of non-Christian approaches to God, Eck encourages an increased religious literacy that she suggests will contribute richness and diversity to our national identity.

September 8 The Passionate Troubadour by Edward Hays.

This is one of my favorites about Frances of Assisi. You could read this or any other about St. Francis and/or see the movie “Brother Sun, Sister Moon” and we will discuss the continued impact and influence of this strange and wonderful man.

October 13 Rediscovering Values On Wall Street, Main Street, and Your Street by Jim Wallis.

New York Times bestselling author of God’s Politics and editor of “Sojourners Magizine

November 10 To be announced later depending on The Festival of Faiths in November

December 8 I Don't Believe in Atheists by Chris Hedges.

This book explores the new atheists; those who attack religion to advance the worst of global capitalism, intolerance and imperial projects.

*These selections are subject to change. For further information or suggestions for Vital Conversation topics contact David Nelson.