The Life & Legacy of Howard Thurman: African American Mystic, Teacher, and Prophet
Monday – May 15, 2023 – 9am to 4pm
“Don’t ask what the world needs. Ask what makes you come alive, and go do it. Because what the world needs are people who have come alive.” ~Howard Thurman
Learn about the life, legacy, and wisdom of Howard Thurman, one of the great spiritual leaders of the 20th century. Thurman was a spiritual mentor to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and other civil rights leaders. His numerous books, prayers and meditations are a source of deep inspiration for people of all faiths. This retreat will include a film presentation, discussions, and purposeful activities, interspersed with African American spirituals and selected meditations by Howard Thurman. Also featured will be an overview of Thurman’s groundbreaking book, Jesus and the Disinherited. Come and learn why King carried this book with him whenever he traveled. Come and discover what this great teacher, mystic and prophet can teach you today.
Morning Session
The Spiritual Roots of Howard Thurman
Discovering Howard Thurman
Afternoon Session
The Great Dilemma of Howard Thurman
Jesus and the Disinherited/Jesus & His Message
The Reverend Joan Crawford is a Spiritual Director, Deacon and Benedictine Oblate. Joan has an ecumenical background and inclusive vision. She received a Master of Theology from Northern Baptist Theological Seminary in Lombard Illinois; and a Certificate in Spiritual Guidance from the Siena Dominican Center in Racine Wisconsin. Her ministry now includes workshops to promote interracial healing and dialogue. Joan brings spiritual awareness, insightful humor, and tender seriousness to her presentations. Her candor, sensitivity, and deep listening will help instill the building blocks for better understanding between the African American and Anglo-American communities.