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June 12, 2025 - The Human Energy Project is having a Salon: Human Energy for Work & Life: Cultivating Agency, Connection, and Purposes in the Age of AI bringing together leading thinkers in science, business, psychology, and AI. Together, they will consider how human energy —our capacity for resilience, adaptability, and connection—can be cultivated in the face of today’s complex personal and planetary challenges. Through conversation and community, the Salon will explore the science of human connection, prosocial AI, the role of leadership in complexity, and the emerging paradigms reshaping how we live and work. The event is by invitation only at Fordham University’s Lincoln Center campus. The Human Energy Project "envisions a future where humanity consciously evolves toward its full collective potential—in harmony with technology and the planet." and has developed a three-year Strategic Plan 2025-2028 . They have 5 Major Goals that serve as pillars for their strategic plan, which are focused on addressing Human Energy’s most significant challenges: extending their reach and impact to a broader and global audience, and surviving and thriving as an organization: GOAL 1: Become financially sustainable through diversified revenue streams GOAL 2: Be a purpose-driven, operationally sound, and evolving organization that lives its noospheric values GOAL 3: Serve as a global catalytic hub for the understanding and realization of collective consciousness GOAL 4: Be a recognized thought leader on collective consciousness , the techno-social dilemma , and human purpose GOAL 5: Model integrative education that inspires purpose, agency, and optimism across generations In summer 2023, I participated in the Human Energy Project's 10-week collegiate-level online course Science of the Noosphere . Hundreds of attendees from across the globe tuned in for biweekly interviews and discussions led by evolutionary biologist David Sloan Wilson. I also attended their N2 conference in Berkeley, CA, in November 2023 and have been following their important work since then. The Noosphere, in the context of human energy and the science of the noosphere, refers to the Earth's third stage of development, after the geosphere and biosphere, representing the emergence of a global, collective consciousness formed by human intellect and technological advancements . It's a superorganism that integrates geological, biological, human, and technological activities into a new level of planetary functioning.  Donate here.

“Almost all of the technologies China manufactures now were technologies we invented in the U.S., What is likely to occur if this [U. S. House Reconciliation Bill] passes is all of our best technology will again go to Asia or other countries to get scaled up. This could be called the ‘transfer technology to China’ bill.” ~ Jigar Shar , former Director of the Energy Department’s Loan Programs Office during the Biden administration. “If this bill [President Trump's so-called 'One Big Beautiful Bill'] becomes law, America will effectively surrender the AI race to China, and communities nationwide will face blackouts,” said Abigail Ross Hopper , president and CEO of the Solar Energy Industries Association, The Washington Post says that "the bill [as passed by the House] would remove $522 billion that is scheduled to be injected into local economies across the country. The Washington Post noted on October 28, 2024 , before the National election, that " Not a single Republican lawmaker voted for the Inflation Reduction Act in 2022... But red districts have emerged as the climate law’s biggest winners... Of the top 10 districts that have attracted the most clean energy investments, nine are led by Republican lawmakers."

Earth - " The Blue Marble " is a famous photograph of the Earth taken on December 7, 1972, by the crew of the Apollo 17 spacecraft en route to the Moon at a distance of about 18,300 mi. "In the second Axial Age, if the shift in consciousness does occur, it will apparently not happen this time through the return of a Jesus or a Buddha or a Mohammed but rather through the commitment of their followers to bring about the return of their presence by reflecting the mind, consciousness, and actions of the founders of their religions. Those of us who grasp the reality of our situation are faced with a stark choice: transform or die!" ~ Harvey Honig Harvey H. Honig's 2022 book,   A People's Guide to An Interfaith Christian Theology in a Time of Transformation ,  uses the metaphor of Spaceship Earth careening toward destruction. Honig tells an evolutionary story, [very abreviated] below: "Over billions of years, one cluster of matter formed, the third planet from the sun, and as it orbited the sun, an atmosphere was created that allowed the development of life, originally as particles that coalesced into atoms, then into primitive single-celled life forms... Over long periods of time, through evolutionary shifts involving the processes of complexification and emergence, this Spaceship Earth developed an amazing proliferation of plant and animal life forms... Eventually, these early life forms developed the ability to use a form of adaptive intelligence to begin to shape and influence the nature of their experience on this spaceship and thereby increase their chances of survival...." Adaptive intelligence "fostered the evolution of an interactive dynamic of cooperative synthesis in which systems of plant and animal life fed on each other and supported each other. One chain of animal species eventually evolved into a species that utilized a relatively large and complex brain to improve its capacity for survival through toolmaking and cooperation. This species eventually developed an offshoot that we know as the hominoid branch. Over millions of years, descendants of this branch developed a brain that was capable of consciousness, curiosity, self-reflection, emotional intelligence, and altruism..." "For most of its journey, the beings in this spaceship depended on nature as they found it. The more complex life forms developed the ability to move around to increase their access to food and other resources, and the hominoid species developed a symbiotic relationship of domestication with several animal species. The humans fed and took care of the animals, and the animals fed the humans. Most of these animals also fed on plant life. [Pre-Axial] life in the spaceship was not yet seen as something to be controlled and managed, but rather as an evolving, interactive synthesis of mutual survival...." [During the first Axial Age (800-200 BCE), human consciousness shifted to a new level due to a complexity of factors, including technology, socialization, urbanization, politicization, and economics. This reflected a new sense of self in relation to the cosmos. Settlements and city-states formed.] The cost of this development of individuality and culture/technology was the loss of the primal connection with nature and with the collective. It was a loss of connection with the Metákuye Oyás'in, as the Lakota describe that connection, in which all beings are interrelated within a cosmic order. Instead of living off the land, people began to stake out territory they called “their” land, and the concept of individual ownership developed. This development eventuated in increasing conflicts over land, property, and power. Eventually, city-states became nations, and the wars and conflicts over property continued. Initially, these conflicts were skirmishes, but as they intensified and became wars, the collateral impact and loss of life among noncombatants increased... Written language accentuated the development of the left brain (the rational/logical/individual control aspect of the brain) at the expense of the right brain (holistic control of the brain) view of the spaceship journey. It also accelerated the development of a view of the relationship of masculine/feminine into one of dominance and control rather than a partnership of equality and division of labor. These developments paralleled the shift in the view of nature from knowing it as our source, the milieu in which we all live, to a view of nature that required humans to be dominating and controlling it for our own use..." A Faustian bargain evolved whereby "written language facilitated the expansion and storage of information and technology, as well as food and other resources, that furthered our mastery and control of nature. These developments also led to the ability to exercise mastery and control over others through the accumulation of power, wealth, and resources. Unfortunately, this process of mastery and accumulation required ever greater growth and expansion. A cycle developed in which people acquired more and more, but were never satisfied. Individuals amassed great wealth, and empires were built out of this insatiable drive for possession and control. Indigenous people who lived in harmony with the land were often exterminated as a threat and obstacle to this development..." "By the time of these developments, the spaceship had been orbiting for billions of years, but the evolution of life and individual consciousness was a relatively recent development. It led to the result that some groups within the spaceship attained the ability to significantly alter conditions for others and to destroy each other on a larger scale. Also, for these groups, religion was increasingly in service of the nation/empire, and the religious caste supported control and domination over other people rather than connection with the divine and with others. "Eventually, after a relatively short period of the total voyage, these empires had developed the need for domination to the point where wars became constant, and the insatiable ambition of the rulers led them to eliminate any threat to their power, including from members of their own families. In this culture, fathers raised their sons to be tough warriors and discouraged compassion or nurturing qualities. Boys were taught to subdue any natural compassion for the feminine or for nature. This harsh training led to great suffering, but it was thought that this suffering made them into tougher and stronger men, more prepared to fight. In this culture, life often became a survival of the fittest, which came to mean the strongest and most ruthless, leading to such an imbalance that this dominance imperative threatened constant war and destruction for the “civilized” part of the spaceship..." "In a parallel development during this period, the political powers became adept at using both religion and science to further their attempts to control and dominate more and more of the spaceship. Consequently, the period of the journey experienced by the inhabitants as the nineteenth and twentieth centuries was marked by endless wars and empire building among the major powers. Neither religion nor science was very successful in containing these destructive wars and, in fact, often became tools in support of their own nation and its political ambitions. Once again, the unchecked ambition of the powerful elites was threatening to destroy the viability of the life forms aboard the spaceship." Neither religion nor science was very effective in slowing or preventing this imminent approaching destruction. Much of religion was involved in total denial that the threat was even happening. These elements became more and more allied with the zealous elements of religion. According to their belief, only the ritually and religiously pure, who acted and believed in the way their interpretation of this divine being required, would be saved. Within the dominant empire of that time, the United States, this “true believer” faction united with the dominant political and economic powers to further their own control and power, even while they were themselves being used by these ruling powers to further their own interests. This “true believer” religious faction supported the economic megaliths in helping to create distrust of the scientists and engineers on the spaceship who were demonstrating that the ship’s atmosphere was rapidly moving out of control. Unfortunately, science was no more effective because it was just as corrupted by the dominant powers." There is an emerging awareness of the need for a second Axial Age. "It began to be clear to the more conscious members of both the scientific and religious communities that unless we transitioned from our narrow survival of the fittest/domination strategy, advanced life within the spaceship was doomed. Even though the spaceship itself would survive with primitive life forms, another long period of evolution would be required to re-create advanced life systems." "We stand at an important divide in our history. On one level, this crisis is manifested in the physical, material world as the inevitable result of our wars and our plundering of nature. It is a proven reality that our world and our quality of life is rapidly deteriorating. To people who look at the larger picture, it makes no sense to fight over who is in control of the spaceship Titanic, or who is right or wrong. Our instruments clearly demonstrate that unless we immediately begin to shift our course, we will face a wholesale loss of life and quality of life. Ultimately, however, the crisis is one of consciousness, which is manifested in our relationship to outer reality. It is our consciousness that needs to change if we are to survive." ~ Harvey Honig There is a lot more to recommend this book than this story. Honig's book is another important voice calling out the urgency of cultural transformation toward higher consciousness, a new religious understanding consistent with what we know from science, and appropriate actions. I remain hopeful that we will transition from the new "Dark Ages" and once again into greater light. It may take generations and many decades, but there is a positive, forward trajectory of evolution toward greater complexity and unity. Honig writes that Ilia Delio's 2013 book " The Unbearable Wholeness of Being is an excellent synthesis of the work of Teilhard de Chardin. Delio applies Chardin’s insights to our current scientific understanding of the world as well as integrating many other scholars and visionaries of the Church. Her whole book is a beautiful, well-articulated vision of where the Holy Spirit is moving us today. Her work in helping explicate and disseminate the insights of Chardin is, to me, the equivalent of the work of Thomas Huxley in popularizing and disseminating the work of Darwin." Book release note from the C. G. Jung Institute of Chicago: A People’s Guide to an Interfaith Christian Theology in a Time of Transformation " Harvey H. Honig began his life’s work as a Lutheran minister but soon recognized his need for a more spacious and inclusive approach through which to heal and understand his inner self. This led him to spend many years exploring and experiencing other paths of religion and spirituality. In recent years, though, he found that the message, mission, and being of Jesus still played a powerful and transformative role in his life. Since common understandings of the life of Jesus are embedded within a biblical and historical framework, Honig wanted to explore the meaning of Christianity within the framework of our current world.   An Interfaith Christian Theology  is for fellow seekers who are drawn to the being and message of Jesus but can no longer relate to the dissonance between reality and belief that so many churches require. Honig’s approach differs from traditional Christian theology in two ways: first, it does not stem from the framework of a specific denomination, and second, it presents itself as a way of thinking about Christianity rather than the only way. After several years as a minister, Honig began Jungian analytic training and earned a PhD in psychology at Loyola University Chicago. Jung gave Honig the tools he needed to continue his personal search for a life-affirming view of Christianity and to assist others in their search for inner truth and healing." #HarveyHonig #CarlJung #IliaDelio #TeilharddeChardin

Ilia Delio & Pete Enns: the Future of Religion The recent Homebrewed Christianity podcast, which features a video from Theology Beer Camp 2024, offers a thought-provoking conversation with former neuroscientist-turned-Franciscan sister Ilia Delio. She presents a radical vision for the future of religion - a religion of the Earth. "Speaking to a community of spiritual seekers, Delio places humanity within our cosmic context—mere seconds in the universe's 13.8 billion-year story—while arguing that we are the universe becoming conscious of itself. She challenges institutional religion's static cosmologies, drawing on Teilhard de Chardin's integration of evolution and faith to advocate for a " religion of the Earth " that recognizes God as "in love with matter." "The conversation, complemented by responses from biblical scholar Pete Enns, exemplifies the kind of boundary-pushing theological dialogue that makes a unique gathering for those reimagining faith at the intersection of science, ecology, and spirituality." Theology Beer Camp, October 16-18, 2025 , in St. Paul, MN, is "a unique three-day conference that brings together theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. " Click here for registration for online access. They offer a 2-for-1 special until September 1, 2025, for $75, plus fees. Follow Tripp Fuller and Homebrewed Christianity on his “Process This” Substack , which has some 80k followers. The @TrippFuller YouTube channel has 9.92K subscribers and 896 videos! "Here's the urgency – if religion doesn't step up, technology is gonna replace it. We're evolving technology exponentially, but our religious imagination is stuck in neutral. The choice is clear: embrace a new religious "zest for life" that connects us to cosmic processes or watch Silicon Valley billionaires become our new high priests." ~ Ilia Delio Earth-centered religion focuses on the veneration of the Earth and natural phenomena. Pantheism is sometimes inappropriately labeled as a pagan religion (along with animism, druidry, and wicca), but it merely means that everything in nature and the universe is God. Pantheism emphasizes the sacredness of nature and the interconnectedness of all living things. This belief expresses itself in practices of taking care of the environment and human and animal rights. Panentheism is a variation stating that God is in everything and everything is in God. Dr. David Grumett, in his monograph Christ in the World of Matter: Teilhard de Chardin's Religious Experience and Vision , says, " Religious experience and vision announce the completion of materiality rather than its annihilation, revealing the true spiritual significance of material objects in the world. Religious experience leads not to disengagement from the world, but to a renewed commitment to active living within it." Robert Nicastro , talking about The New Coherence , says, "The world is not God and God is not the world, yet God is 'the unlimited depth of love, the center of all that is...'" God is described as "a creative energy of love on all levels of matter and life." In this sense, humans are co-creators with God. If God is in love with matter, we should be so too! #Pantheism #Panetheism #Christogenesis

"A theology of the third millennium would be one that encompasses, among other disciplines, depth psychology, quantum physics, and neuroscience." ~ Peter Brian Todd Peter B. Todd is a psychotherapist with a Jungian orientation and the author of The Individuation of God: Integrating Science and Religion (2017) , where he outlines what he believes could become a new theology, open to both mystical experience and modern science. " Todd challenges the materialistic reductionism of our age and offers an alternative grounded in the visionary work taking place in a wide array of disciplines, including Jungian archetypal psychology, quantum mechanics, evolutionary biology, epistemology, neuroscience, and an incarnational theology implicit in the evolutionary process." "Todd builds upon the evolutionary process theology of Pierre Teilhard de Chardin . He also emphasizes the unification of particle physics and depth psychology as revealed in the explorations of Carl G. Jung and Nobel laureate Wolfgang Pauli . Additionally, he pays homage to the concept of the "implicate order" in the work of physicist David Bohm." Todd also writes, "Wolfgang Pauli wrote of the need for a reintegration of repressed “spirit” into science, in particular Jungian depth psychology , so that lost wholeness could be restored according to the archetype of the coniunctio oppositorum or union of opposites." "The God of... archaic theologies had to die in order to be resurrected with the primordial energy and timeless quality of the unconscious archetype, stripped of anthropomorphic garments and animistic projection, while expressing rich symbolic meaning. What is required is nothing less than a theology for the third millennium." ~ Peter B. Todd In her 2023 book The Not-Yet God , Ilia Delio quotes Peter B. Todd several times (from Teilhard and Other Modern Thinkers on Evolution, Mind, and Matter ) as she offers a "new myth" of "relational holism" in the search for "a new connection to divinity in an age of quantum physics, evolution, and cultural pluralism." Jeffrey Mishlove, PhD, host of New Thinking Allowed YouTube channel , interviewed Peter Todd in 2019 in the video above. Mischlove co-produced the original Thinking Allowed public television series and past vice-president of the Association for Humanistic Psychology (AHP). He is the recipient of the Pathfinder Award from that Association for his contributions to the field of human consciousness exploration.

In the 2004 book   The Death of the Mythic God . author Jim Marion says that what has really died is our myth of God, our worn-out notion of the deity in the sky, separate from us, who intervenes in our lives only when petitioned strenuously. God still exists, but we need to update our interpretation of God's nature. The mythic sky God was never real, says Marion. It was only a concept of God, now outdated. The real God is in the human heart, within the world, operating as the engine of evolution. God grows us from within into ever higher levels of awareness." On May 2-4, 2025 the Center for Christogenesis had their virtual 2025 Conference: Rethinking Religion in an Age of Science: From Institution to Evolution.   This conference "aimed to suture the relationship between religion and spirituality by relocating religion at the heart of cosmic life. Religion has not gone away but it is advancing in new ways. Formal or institutional religion has sidetracked the modern person by placing constraints around religion and segregating its core energies in creeds and doctrines." Robert Nicastro , Executive Director of the Center for Christogenesis , at their 2025 Annual Conference , made the case for a new coherence. From... The Big Five Fundamentals of Faith The inspiration of scripture as literal word of God. The virgin birth of Jesus as miraculous and literal - the means by which the divine nature of Christ has been guaranteed. The substitutional view of the atonement. The certainty of the physical bodily resurrection of the dead. The certainty of heaven and hell. To... The New Coherence God is described as a creative energy of love on all levels of matter and life. God is not stable or unchanging, but works through the movement, rhythm, pattern and restlesness - within the evolving nature of life itself - as a hyper-center of immeasurable depth. God serves as the principle of individuation , in which each organism, including God, retains unique identity and is enhanced through a deepening of creative union and wholeness. The future is metaphysically foundational in our efforts to understand the world and God. The primary context of divine revelation is the unfolding process of creation and not formal religion. “Since Charles Darwin, static creeds have become an unlivable place.” ~ Hans Kung

Image generated by AI According to the "Holomovement" website , the term was "coined by American physicist David Bohm, a contemporary of Einstein, 'Holomovement' defines our Universe as a living, interconnected whole. In 2022, Nobel prize-winning physicists further validated this concept of universal Oneness, bridging ancient spiritual wisdom with modern science. This worldview of Oneness, or interconnectedness, has the potential to change human behavior on a massive scale." In the 2023 book The Holomovement: Embracing Our Collective Purpose to Unite Humanity   edited by Emanuel Kuntzelman   and Jill Robinson  " thought leaders share the science and spirit of how our interconnection can serve our global family and change the world in this inspiring anthology. Explore evidence-based understanding and inspirational accounts of the living universe and our integral place in its evolution. In this grand unfolding toward ever greater levels of interdependence, you will better understand how your own purpose in the evolutionary process is critical to this movement." "Find inspiration in this anthology to actively support the wholeness in motion around us, integrating your unique gifts and the Holomovement’s unifying values into a collective story of our time that serves the greatest good." The Holomovement Theory of Change "Change is set into motion through Holons, groups of three or more, dedicated to a transformative project. This includes groups of individuals, new or existing organizations and networks. This collaborative network of Holons is an expansive, creative ecosystem accelerating humanity's highest potential.Projects of all scopes are valued in the Holon community. A few examples include: Meditation or Interspiritual Prayer Circles. Community park, beach or trail hike clean-ups. Regenerative farming or permaculture projects. Mentorship programs or other nonprofit organizational work. Educational programs for children or vulnerable communities." This is a journey from "me," to "we," to "all as one.” Read the Holomovement Theory of Change pdf here . Read The Holomovement’s 8 Unifying Principles pdf here . I became aware of the Holomovement through my involvement with Human Energy Project 's N2 Conference in November 17-19, 2023 and Kurt Johnson .

Here's a list of some upcoming online and Rogue Valley in-person, eco-spiritual activities that may be of interest to you. Check back, as this post will be updated during May as we get additional information, and a new calendar listing will come out in late May, 2025. Don't be intimidated by the scope of this list; choose to participate in just what calls to you. May 1, 2025  - The Love Foundation  (TLF) invites people around the world to join in “celebrating our humanity” and expanding LOVE during a one-day collective awareness event: Global Love Day  - encompassing all nations, all people, and all life. It's  all about kindness, compassion and love in global proportions! Harold W. Becker is the Founder and President of The Love Foundation, Inc. May 2-4, 2025  - Center for Christogenesis ’ upcoming annual conference, Rethinking Religion in an Age of Science: From Institution to Evolution . This virtual event will explore "how a renewed understanding of religion can invigorate planetary life and human evolution in our age of technology." Speakers will include Bayo Akomolafe , Diana Butler Bass ,  Ilia Delio,   John Haught , Grace Ji-Sun Kim , and Thomas Jay Oord .   More information and registration here. May 8-10, 2025  -   Humanity's Team   is having an in person and livestreamed event:   Sacred Awakening Live   offering a "3-day immersion where science meets spirituality, and you become the catalyst for global transformation. This event will awaken your confidence to create ripples of change—starting within and radiating outward." Guest speakers include: Steve Farrell, Stephanie James, Gregg Braden, Suzanne Giesemann, Michael Beckwith, Neale Donald Walsch, Karen Noé, Debra Poneman, Anita Sanchez, Sadhvi Bhagawati Saraswati, SIMRAN, Lisa Campion, Cynthia James, Jonathan and Andi Goldman   and many more. Livestream tickets are $199 and more information here . May 8, 2025 , at 4 p.m. PDT - Deeptime Network will open the Cafe to the entire Deeptime community and beyond for the premier showing of the new short video, THE COSMIC SIGNAL: Celebrating How We First Heard the Echo of the Big Bang. "This video is about the 60th anniversary celebration of discovery of proof that the universe started as an exploding fireball. The production team will be there and you'll hear about how and why this discovery was crucial to our understanding of an evolving universe." For info and to register, click here May 15, 2025 , at 10 a.m. PDT - Imogene Drummond is giving a presentation: "Cultivating Our Botanical, Spiritual, and Creative Gardens: Wisdom for a Flourishing Future. " In it she will explore how cultivating our gardens—including the garden of our imagination—can help us envision and create individual and cultural transformation. Hosted online by EarthConnection on Thursday, May 15, at 1 pm ET and 7 pm ET. Free! Registration required. To register for the 1 pm ET time, click here:     https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/28eYhloMRdiL9YbFxBHQEg#/registration To register for the 7 pm ET time, click here:    https://us02web.zoom.us/meeting/register/mkraNUzpSl60PGZpOTtizA#/registration May 18, 2025 , from 4-5:20 p.m. PDT  - Center for Action and Contemplation  (CAC) is offering   "How Can Contemplative Christianity Help Me?”   — a live online gathering featuring Brian McLaren , James Finley , Carmen Acevedo Butcher , and Pico Iyer   to learn more about how a practice-centered spirituality can enrich your life and relationships. Register by May 17 to get access to the recorded replay for a full year. More information and registration here . May 20, 2026-June 24, 202 5 (six Tuesdays from 4-5:30 PT) - Deeptime Network  presents The Worldview of Thomas Berry  with Sam King. More information and registration here . May 23-26, 2025 - ProSocial World will be part of The Holomovement Wave: Asheville, NC 2025, happening . " This transformational gathering is about aligning with higher consciousness, deepening collaboration, and co-creating a thriving future for our planet." The 4-Day Wave Experience: Immersive Learning : Gain insights from inspiring speakers, interactive workshops, and open spaces designed for organic connection and collaboration. Transformative Practices : Participate in personal and collective meditations, sound healing, and wellness practices to elevate emotional and physical well-being. Empowered Action : Leave with actionable insights, tools, and partnerships to amplify your individual and collective impact. Radical Collaboration : Discover tools and frameworks to foster innovative partnerships and co-create solutions. Engage in sessions that inspire bold, transformative ways of thinking and working together. Creative Expression : Engage with art, music, and storytelling experiences that inspire and ignite collective imagination. Visionary Community : Connect with a diverse group of changemakers from all walks of life, forming meaningful relationships rooted in purpose and shared values. Celebration of Resilience : Celebrate humanity’s potential to overcome challenges through creativity, collaboration, and unity. Practical Solutions : Explore tangible approaches to new economics, regenerative systems, and exponential technologies for real-world impact. Register here. May 28–June 2, 2025  - The Haden Institute  is having their   2025 Summer Dream & Spirituality Conference :   Sacred Cosmos, Sacred Soul   in Asheville, NC and virtually. Apply here . This Conference will offer “a new framework for thinking about God, religion, and spirituality in an age of quantum physics and evolution – one that transcends the obstacles of dogmas in religious traditions. Ilia Delio, author of The Not-Yet God , offers a way forward for a vision of God and the Cosmos that is deeply satisfying for both the mind and the heart. She engages the insights of Carl Jung, the Jesuit scientist-theologian Teilhard de Chardin, and process thinkers.” “At the 2025 Haden Summer Dream and Spirituality Conference, we will explore the insights of Jung’s analytical psychology, modern science, and ancient mysticism. Dream work, contemplative practices, rituals, and creative embodiment will ground these insights into a personal and practical spirituality of love and connection to the whole of the Cosmos.” May 29, 2025 , from 6-7:30 p.m. PDT - SOCAN will have their Monthly Meeting at Medford Public Library, 205 So. Central, Medford, OR. SOCAN’s Federal and State Project Team continues to play a pivotal role during Oregon’s legislative sessions, advancing climate-responsible policy through direct engagement with legislators, their staff, and relevant agencies. May 31, 2025 , from 9-11 a.m. PDT - The American Teilhard Association  (ATA) is having their Annual Event and Retreat 2025, featuring Dr. Catherine Keller on Zoom: Eco-apocalypse and the Unfinished Universe: Teilhard's Evolutionary Hope . Register here for Zoom access @ $20. June 7-8, 2025 , from 7-10 a.m. PDT - Aspen Wisdom  is organizing: The Aspen Forum on Forming a Unitive Consciousness , to help us answer the question: How do we respond to the time we are living through? Seakers include Marianne Williamson, Tim Shriver, Mirabai Starr, Matthew Fox, Cynthia Bourgeault, Andrew Harvey, Sherri Mitchell Cyprian Consiglio, Susan Aposhyan, Heather Vesey and Nicholas Vesey. There will be special group sessions. Register here . June 19, 2025 - The Shift Network  offers   The Path of Christ Consciousness Nurture the Christ Within by Illuminating Your Divinity & Claiming Your Mystic Truth   - "a 6-month immersion program with Matthew Fox to explore what it means to be a modern mystic and prophet, integrating this sacred knowledge into your life through the authentic teachings of Jesus and other wisdom keepers. This journey births what Matthew calls Christianity 2.0   — based not on dogma, but on a spirituality that recovers the sacred sense of original goodness." Open to Participants by Application Only. $2,700 tuition. More information and application  here . June 21-28, 2025 -   World UNITY Week 2025 .   This years themes of are Truth, Beauty, and Goodness. World UNITY Week is the beginning on the summer solstice, launches   99 Days of Peace Through Unity , culminating in September. The co-producers for the celebration are Unity Earth , Purpose Earth , SINE Network  and The Hague Center . September 2025 to June 2026 - The   Center for Wild Spirituality   is now making plans for their Seminary of the Wild Earth  program (their foundational, year-long, eco-spirituality certificate) and their Vocational Eco-Spirituality  certificate (specializing in Eco-Spiritual Direction or as a Wild Guide) . Click here  to join the waitlist for their 2025 cohort. On Earth Day April 22, 2025 Faith in Place wrote: "We pause with full awareness of the weight and urgency of this moment. The challenges facing our shared home are real and growing—but so is the community of people, like you, committed to healing and justice. We know that this sacred work isn't easy. It requires stamina, clarity, and deep wells of hope. This is why we turn to our faith and spiritual traditions, which remind us that hope is not just a feeling—it is a practice. A discipline. A choice we make again and again. Earth Day offers us a moment to renew that practice.   Our diverse traditions have long taught us to live with purpose, care for what has been entrusted to us, and act even when the outcome is uncertain. So today, we honor not only the land, water, and air that sustain us but also the hope that grows from our relationship with the Earth and the community that strengthens us to keep going." Rogue Valley Voice aggregates and curates information from many third-party sources and does not necessarily endorse all aspects of others' work. Still, we find their viewpoint provocative and interesting enough to encourage the reader to engage with and come to their understanding and actions, as they deem appropriate.

Katherine Hayhoe's Ted Talk The most important thing you can do to fight climate change: talk about it says "the key to having a real discussion about climage change is to connect over shared values like family, community and religion -- and to prompt people to realize that they already care about a changing climate.

I asked ChatGPT to " explain the difference between Ewert Cousin's use of "second axial consciousness " and Steve McIntosh's use of " spiral dynamics ." ChatGPT said: "Great question — both Ewert Cousins and Steve McIntosh are deeply concerned with the evolution of human consciousness , but they approach it from very different paradigms : Cousins through a theological-historical lens , and McIntosh through an integral-philosophical, developmental framework rooted in psychology. Here’s a detailed comparison: 1. Ewert Cousins – Second Axial Consciousness Background : Cousins was a Catholic theologian and historian of religion. Building on Karl Jaspers’ Axial Age , he proposed the concept of a Second Axial Age . First Axial Age (800–200 BCE): Marked by the emergence of individual self-awareness and transcendence across multiple civilizations (Confucianism, Buddhism, Greek philosophy, Hebrew prophecy, etc.). Second Axial Age : Cousins argued we are now entering a new axial period , catalyzed by: Globalization : Humanity is now interconnected like never before. Ecological awareness : A shift from domination of nature to harmony with it. Interreligious dialogue : Moving beyond exclusive truth claims toward spiritual integration. Spiritual evolution : From individual salvation to planetary transformation . Consciousness Shift : Toward global, ecological, and mystical integration — more holistic, inclusive, and spiritually mature. 🔑 Cousins' vision is largely spiritual and theological , focused on a religious metanoia in response to the crises of modernity. 2. Steve McIntosh – Spiral Dynamics / Evolutionary Consciousness Background : McIntosh is a philosopher in the Integral Theory and evolutionary spirituality space, deeply influenced by Spiral Dynamics , which was developed from Clare Graves’ psychological research. Spiral Dynamics : Describes the evolution of value systems and worldviews in a tiered model: First Tier stages (e.g., Tribal, Warrior, Traditional, Modern, Postmodern) Second Tier (Integral, Holistic) introduces self-aware, systems-based thinking. McIntosh's Framework : Views the evolution of consciousness as: Driven by cultural complexity and internal depth . Including politics, psychology, science, and spirituality . Needing the emergence of a post-progressive (or "integral") culture that integrates the best of all previous stages. 🔑 McIntosh’s vision is more psychological and socio-political , grounded in developmental theory and aimed at reconciling cultural conflict through consciousness integration . Key Differences Aspect Ewert Cousins – Second Axial Age Steve McIntosh – Spiral Dynamics Root Discipline Theology, history of religions Developmental psychology, integral philosophy Historical Model Epochal shift in global religious consciousness Continuous developmental model of worldviews Scope Global spiritual evolution, especially within and across religions Cultural, political, and psychological value systems Language of Development Mystical, religious, global spirituality Systems-thinking, tiers/memes, integral consciousness Drivers of Change Crisis, interreligious unity, ecological awareness Complexity, inner growth, worldview conflict Goal Planetary spiritual transformation Emergence of integral/post-progressive culture In Summary Cousins sees the Second Axial Age as a sacred turning point for humanity — a time for religions to transcend themselves and co-create a planetary spirituality. McIntosh sees Spiral Dynamics as a map of evolving consciousness , where an "integral" worldview must emerge to reconcile the fragmentation of modern and postmodern culture. They both agree humanity is evolving , but Cousins emphasizes spiritual and religious unity , while McIntosh emphasizes developmental integration across value systems ." Ewert H. Cousins (1927-2009) was, "a world-renowned theologian and pioneer in interreligious dialogue who brought Christians, Hindus, Muslims, Jews, and Buddhists. One of Cousins’ greatest contributions was making the touchstone texts of Western religions accessible to a wide audience. Together with Richard Payne, he conceived of and edited the Classics of Western Spirituality , a groundbreaking, 107-volume series of classical works from the Christian, Jewish, and Muslim traditions. Cousins’ own translation of the writings of St. Bonaventure was one of the series’ bestsellers. Cousins was also the general editor of the 25-volume series World Spirituality: An Encyclopedic History of the Religious Quest . In his 1992 book Christ of the 21st Century , Cousins argues that we are in the midst of a “ Second Axial Age ” . A 2016 article by Matthew Wright provides a summary of Cousins’ notion of a Second Axial Age, called The Second Axial Emergence "Steve McIntosh is a developmental philosopher who focuses on the evolution of consciousness and culture. He is the author of Developmental Politics (2020), The Presence of the Infinite (2015), Evolution’s Purpose (2012), and Integral Consciousness and the Future of Evolution (2007). He is also coauthor of  Conscious Leadership (2020), with John Mackey and Carter Phipps. McIntosh is the cofounder of the Institute for Cultural Evolution nonprofit organization, and cocreator of DepolarizingGPT , a 3-answer AI chatbot."

Joanna Macy and Molly Brown's 2014 book Coming Back to Life , describes the " Work That Reconnects" as a Spiral journey through four stages: Coming from Gratitude Honoring Our Pain for the World Seeing with New/Ancient Eyes Going Forth Third Act Faith (TAF) is currently offering an exploration of Joanna Macy’s Work That Reconnects , "a set of simple but profound practices to build strength and resilience for our work to heal the world. In each session, we will engage in practices of sharing, listening, and imagining related to one of the stages of the Work that Reconnects, which are designed to build community, help us hold the many emotions related to our work in the world, and give us new sources of support to do that work." Their sessions are being led by TAF Coordinating Committee member Martin Wagner, an interfaith eco-chaplain, environmental lawyer, and student of Joanna Macy. The schedule for sessions this year is the second Tuesday of each month at 4:00 p.m. PT The stages stand alone, so you do not have to attend every session and can join at any time. April 23: Gratitude May 13: Sacred Listening Circle June 10: The Work That Reconnects—Honoring the Pain of the World July 8: Sacred Listening Circle August 12: The Work That Reconnects—Seeing with New Eyes September 9: Sacred Listening Circle October 14: The Work That Reconnects—Going Forth November 11: Sacred Listening Circle December 9: The Work That Reconnects—Returning to Gratitude Developed by Buddhist activist Joanna Macy , Ph.D., an author and scholar of systems theory and deep ecology, these practices are a powerful resource for transforming anger, despair, and overwhelm into inspired, collaborative action. Read more and register on the Third Act Faith website. Programs in Earth Literacies tells stories about: Joanna Macy / Systems Thinking / Grieving / Living Systems The New Cosmology, the New Story and the Cosmic Story The Earth Charter Earth Spirituality / Science and theology / Evolutionary Consciousness & Interbeing  Ecozoic Era Ecosystem | healthy–living within rights of nature Indigenous Ways of Knowing | Indigenous Spirituality Climate Change & the Climate Crisis " Earth Literacy explores the mysterious unity and relationships binding Earth and the totality of life under the conditions out of which Earth has emerged within a single, unfolding Universe. Earth Literacy is also a movement of people who understand that any viable future for our human species is entirely dependent on the viability of our threatened planet. It is a movement arising from a desire to work not only for Earth’s survival but for the transformation of all the limited beliefs, values, institutions and structures that promote domination, violence, destitution and powerlessness among people and the natural world." ~ Mariam MacGillis OP

According to a massive new  Pew Research Center survey  released in February 2025 (The Religious Landscape Study of U.S. Adults conducted July 17, 2023-March 4, 2024). religiously unaffiliated adults – those who identify as atheists, agnostics or as “nothing in particular” when asked about their religion – account for 29% of the population. This rise of the "nones" appears to have leveled off and people are no longer leaving churches en masse as they have for the past several decades. The latest RLS, fielded over seven months in 2023-24, finds that 62% of U.S. adults identify as Christians. That is a decline of 9 percentage points since 2014 and a 16-point drop since 2007. After many years of steady decline, the share of Americans who identify as Christians shows signs of leveling off – at least temporarily. 1.7% of U.S. adults identify religiously as Jewish. Muslims, Buddhists and Hindus each make up roughly 1% of Americans and 1.9% of U.S. adults identify religiously as "something else", including 1.1% of respondents who identify with Unitarianism or other liberal faiths, and 0.7% who identify with New Age groups. But the New York Times reported on February 23, 2025 , "Almost all Americans — 92 percent of adults — say they have a spiritual belief in one or more of the following: 86% believe people have a soul or spirit in addition to their physical body. 83% believe in God or a universal spirit. 79% believe there is something spiritual beyond the natural world, even if we can’t see it. 70% believe in an afterlife (heaven, hell or both). "Despite these signs of recent stabilization and abiding spirituality, other indicators suggest we may see further declines in the American religious landscape in future years." This is because younger Americans are less religious that their elders." If you want to understand not just the what, but "why" religion has declined since the 1990's, check out University of Notre Dame socialogist Christian Smith's provocative 2025 book, Why Religion Went Obsolete , The book goes beyond the metrics of organizational indices and individual beliefs and practices to descibe the milieu or zeitheist ( the general intellectual, moral, and cultural climate of an era) - complex cultural changes, particularly generational differences - larger social forces that have crowded out traditional religion. It is more a matter of obsolence than the tug and pull between religious and secularization forces. As Smith posits: it's more that younger people are just leaving the stadium where that game was being played. Richard Ostling 's April 22, 2025 article in Religion Unplugged offers a quick summary of Christian Smith's new book. For an informative, but much longer exposition watch Tripp Fuller's April 21, 2025 podcast  interview with Christian Smith.

“Quest for the Holy Stein” Theology Beer Camp 2025 is coming to St. Paul, Minnesota and online October 16-18, 2025 . T his year’s Monty Python-inspired theme is “Quest for the Holy Stein,” "Theology Beer Camp is a unique three-day conference that brings together of theology nerds and craft beer for a blend of intellectual engagement, community building, and fun. Organized by Homebrewed Christianity , this event features a lineup of well-known podcasters, scholars, and theology enthusiasts who come together to "nerd out" on theological topics while enjoying loads of fun activities." Organizer Tripp Fuller is "an American theologian, minister, and broadcaster. He is the founder and host of Homebrewed Christianity , one of the most downloaded theology programs in podcasting. He is currently a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Theology and Science at the University of Edinburgh ." Fuller    is author of the 2020 book,   Divine Self-Investment: An Open and Relational Constructive Christology   The book " offers an open and relational Christology that engages three theological registers (historical, existential, and metaphysical) from within the Disciple’s confession of Jesus as the Christ," Speaker Lineup: John Dominic Crossan - Irish-American New Testament scholar, historian of early Christianity and former Catholic priest who was a prominent member of the Jesus Seminar, and emeritus professor at DePaul University Kelly Brown Douglas - African-American Episcopal priest, womanist theologian , and interim president o f Episcopal Divinity School Reggie Williams - associate professor of Black theology at St. Louis University and author of B onhoeffer's Black Jesus: Harlem Renaissance Theology and An Ethic of Resistance. Adam Clark Jeff Pugh - Professor and the Maude Sharpe Powell Professor of Religious Studies at Elon University Casper ter Kulie from Harry Potter and the Sacred Text podcast Juan and Stacy Floyd-Thomas - Associate Professor of Ethics and Society at Vanderbilt Divinity School Philip Clayton - retired professor at the Claremont School of Theology and professor of philosophy and religion at the Claremont Graduate University . He is a co-director of the Center for Process Studies . Podcast Participants: Bible for Normal People Rethinking Faith Theology on the Rocks The New Evangelicals People’s Theology Early Bird Tickets: Available until May 15th at TheologyBeerCamp2025.com

On April 7, 2025 President Trump posted on Truth Social: "Don't be a PANICAN (a new party based on Weak and Stupid people.)" The name is a dig at those inciting panic about the possible effects of his tariffs on the economy. CNN’s Fareed Zakaria, host of “Fareed Zakaria GPS,” shares his take on developments surrounding President Donald Trump’s tariff policies, and why he thinks it’s “getting dirtier fast.” Fareed’s Take: "Trump’s tariffs will bring about an orgy of corruption." On Sunday, April 13, 2025 Zakaria interviewed Oren Cass and Larry Summers on GPS about A Trump tariff debate . Cass is founder of the conservative think tank American Compass , whose advisors are Robert Lighthizer (Former U.S. Trade Representative); Jeff Sessions (Former U.S. Attorney General); Elbridge Colby ( The Marathon Initiative ); and Michael Pettis ( Carnegie Endowment. ) Both Cass and Summers agreed on the crude, ineffective way Trumps tariff policy has been rolled out and that it does not benefit the middle class. Summers was quick to agree with Zakaria that Trump's negotiation approach is "rent seeking", which ushers in cronie capitalism. This is the worst self-inflicted wound since the era of WWII. #CNN

"It’s time for a comprehensive national civic uprising. It’s time for Americans in universities, law, business, nonprofits and the scientific community, and civil servants and beyond to form one coordinated mass movement." ~ David Brooks David Brooks wrote in the New York Times on April 17, 2025: What’s Happening Is Not Normal. America Needs an Uprising That Is Not Normal . He said: " A civic uprising has to have a short-term vision and a long-term vision. Short term: Stop Trump. Foil his efforts. Pile on the lawsuits. Turn some of his followers against him. The second is a long-term vision of a fairer society that is not just hard on Trump, but hard on the causes of Trumpism — one that offers a positive vision." Brooks cited  Erica Chenoweth   and Maria Stephan 's 2012 book: Why Civil Resistance Works: The Strategic Logic of Nonviolent Conflict . which found that "campaigns of nonviolent resistance were more than twice as effective as their violent counterparts... Successful nonviolent resistance movements usher in more durable and internally peaceful democracies, which are less likely to regress into civil war." Listening to Timothy Snyder is an experience of being dazled by a creative genius and an intellect of the ilk of Ilia Delio. His April 1, 2025 lecture at the New York Public Library makes an argument about the state of our political world. He makes the point that "if resistance and opposition is all tedium and repetition, then it won't happen!" - "As we are resisting, it cannot be just in the name of against, but in the name of for ... we need to have a clear vision of what we are resisting for ." "The way that authoritarnism is progressing in America is pretty generic. This is not the first time it has happend in the world. It behoves American institutions to get advice from places like Ukraine, Poland and Slovenia where there has been progress and regress, but where there has also been progress in coming back ." Institutions need to work together or they will be picked off one by one. You break civilization by breaking one part of society at a time. You have to preemptively band together and you have to be prepared that "somebody is going to take a hit" and when that happens be prepared to help. Realize that you never, ever persuade people in a one-off conversation. Try to find a way in the conversation for them to remember that you are a human being - that your concerns have to do with something normal, human, everyday. #DavidBrooks #TimothySnyder #Resistance #Non-Violence

I write about the current U.S. trade war with China in order to try to make sense of the incomprehensible. Will we ever again have an amiable agreement? Will a standoff lead to a global recession? Will tariffs lead to an economically stronger China globally as Moira Weigel suggests? In 2000, as the People’s Republic of China (PRC) prepared to enter the World Trade Organization (WTO), the U.S. Congress voted to extend China’s Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR). This meant that the Chinese state-run economy received preferential tariff treatment under U.S. law, opening the door for the mass influx of products made in the communist nation. A quarter of a century later there is a complete reversal The United States-China Economic and Security Review Commission was created in 2000. The Commission’s 2024 Annual Report to Congress Summary states: "Under the leadership of General Secretary Xi Jinping, the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) continued to pursue a technology-focused strategy to drive rapid military modernization, expand internal political surveillance and suppression of dissent, and assert China’s political and economic agenda in the international arena.... Although Xi has consistently emphasized the importance of small and medium-sized enterprises in providing jobs and accelerating innovation, the data show that the CCP’s post-COVID policies have strengthened the position of state-owned enterprises (SOE)s." "China is reinforcing its longstanding, market-distorting approach of massive subsidies to targeted industries, this time focusing on high-tech manufacturing in order to unleash “new quality productive forces” and generate more earnings through its exports and traditional dumping approaches. Designed to strengthen self-sufficiency and achieve global dominance in key sectors - including but not limited to advanced and legacy semiconductor chips, aviation, advanced batteries, robotics, and artificial intelligence - China’s strategy is also intended to integrate it more deeply into global supply chains and continue to increase every other country's dependence on it for a wide array of goods and materials." "As the United States and its partners move to further curb access to military and dual-use technologies and address China’s blatant disregard for global norms and international agreements, China is shifting production overseas to circumvent restrictions while expanding its own access to critical minerals, markets, key enabling technologies and tools, and labor. Because its subsidized goods undercut foreign competitors, China’s approach comes at the expense of both advanced and emerging economies." The 2024 Report recommended that " Congress repeal Permanent Normal Trade Relations (PNTR) for China. The PNTR status allows China to benefit from the same trade terms as U.S. allies, despite engaging in practices such as intellectual property theft and market manipulation." Instead, by executive order President Trump entered into a trade war on "Liberation Day" (April 2, 2025) imposing and quickly excalating tariffs on China, which retaliated in kind. Meanwhile some smaller countries were trying to make a deal with Trump. Later that week the stock market plunged. The New York Times quoted Trump saying on Tuesday night, April 8, 2025, that global leaders were coming to him “kissing my ass” in search of deals. . But " a rapid rise in government bond yields, caused Mr. Trump to blink and on Wednesday afternoon pause his “reciprocal” tariffs for most countries for the next 90 days leaving a 10 percent tariff rate in place for most countries while increasing tariffs on China to 125 percent. Trump met with Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent , Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and Kevin Hassett , the director of the National Economic Council . 'They discussed with the president the 10-year Treasury yield, emphasizing concern about the health of the broader U.S. financial system.' Robert Reich explains the importance of the rise of Treasury note rates. New York Times global economics correspondent Peter Goodman notes on April 13, 2025: " Shocked by Trump’s trade war, foreign investors are selling U.S. government bonds, long the world’s safe haven. Investors buy U.S. Treasury bonds on the assumption that, come what may, the federal government will endure... Last week, the yield on the closely watched 10-year Treasury bond soared to roughly 4.5 percent from just below 4 percent — the most pronounced spike in nearly a quarter century. At the same time, the value of the American dollar has been falling, even as tariffs would normally be expected to push it up." US stocks got crushed on Thursday, April 10, 2025, pulling back from the previous day's historic rally amid concerns that President Trump's broad trade offensive has become a direct confrontation with China. Next , cell phones, chips and laptops get a reprieve from tariffs as China hiked its tariffs on US goods to 125%. What a ride the first two weeks in April 2025! Inflation and stagnation are likely to be part of an uncertain future. This video below gives a perspective of U.S.-China Relations two years ago under the Biden administration. by Foreign Policy Association.

Presented via Zoom by WorldOregon, in conjunction with the annual Great Decisions series at Portland State University, March 14, 2025 April 30, 2025 , at 6:30 p.m. PDT - WorldOregon is having a fund-raiser event: Bridge Together: 75 Years of Sparking Global Connections at the Patricia Reser Center for the Arts, 12625 SW Crescent St., Beaverton, OR 97005 "The evening will feature exceptional food and drink, thought-provoking conversations, and brief remarks from Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and Yamhill County-raised Nicholas Kristof. Together, we’ll reflect on the impact of global engagement and invest in opportunities to keep Oregonians connected to the people, places, and issues that shape our global future." WorldOregon's mission is to "broaden and deepen public awareness, engagement, and understanding of international affairs, engaging Oregonians with the world—and with each other. WorldOregon programs keep Oregonians connected to the people, places, and ideas that are shaping our shared global future."

May 3-4, 2025 - The Center for Christogenesis is having their virtual 2025 Conference: Rethinking Religion in an Age of Science: From Institution to Evolution . This conference aims to suture the relationship between religion and spirituality by relocating religion at the heart of cosmic life. Religion has not gone away but it is advancing in new ways. Formal or institutional religion has sidetracked the modern person by placing constraints around religion and segregating its core energies in creeds and doctrines." Register here . Friday, May 2, 2025 4-4:15 p.m. - Introductions & Welcome by Ilia Delio and moderator Robert Nicastro 4:15-5:30 p.m. - Bayo Akomolafe : Holydrift: A Parapolitics of Religion Saturday, May 3, 3035 6-7:15 a.m. - Grace Ji-Sun Kim: Earthbound: God at the Intersection of Climate and Justice 7:30-8:45 a.m. - Ilia Delio: When Unchanging Dogma Meets Scientific Discovery: The Primacy of Experience 10:30-11:45 a.m. - Philip Clayton: When Religion Embraces the Evolving Cosmos and the Two Become One 12-1:15 p.m. - John Haught: Rethinking Resurrection in the Age of Science 4:00-4:30 p.m. - 2025 C4C Award Presentation 4:45-5:30 p.m. - Audience Q & A Sunday, May 4, 2025 6-7:15 a.m. - Thomas Jay Oord: Ten Ways to Rethink Religion in Light of Science 7:30-8:15 a.m. - Panel Discussion: Given all that we have heard, where do we go from here? 8:30-9:15 a.m. - Closing Ritual: Mass on the World led by Emily DeMoor, Director of 9 a.m. - Ilia Delio: Closing Remarks

David Korten , in his 1995 book When Corporations Rule the World , tried to make a case for the unworkability of current economic systems on several grounds: Impoverishment of the majority of the population Need for indefinitely expanding credit leading to the debasement of the currency The finite limits of energy and material resources Korten critiques current methods of economic development led by the Bretton Woods institutions and asserts his desire to rebalance the power of multinational corporations with concern for environmental sustainability and what he terms "people-centered development" Korten started the quarterly Yes magazine  in summer 1996. Korten's 2006 book The Great Turning: From Empire to Earth Community argued that "the development of empires about 5,000 years ago initiated unequal distribution of power and social benefits to the small portion of the population that controlled them. He also argued that corporations are modern versions of empire, both being social organizations based on hierarchies, chauvinism , and domination through violence." "The rise of powerful advanced technology , combined with the control of corporate as well as nation-based empires is described as being increasingly destructive to communities and the environment. Korten postulated in 2006 that the world is on the verge of a perfect storm of converging crises, including anthropogenic adverse climate change , post-peak oil production decline , and a financial crisis caused by an unbalanced global economy. This will precipitate major changes to the current economic and social structure." Korten believes that these crises will present an opportunity for significant changes that could replace the paradigm of "Empire" with one of " Earth Community ." Although recognizing the potential that the opportunity may not be seized, Korten hopes that this opportunity will result in the emergence of an "Earth Community," based on sustainable, just, and caring communities that incorporate the values of mutual responsibility and accountability, and he advocates toward that. In 2015 Korten's book, Change the Story, Change the Future: A Living Economy for a Living Earth was published calling our current story "Sacred Money and Markets" - money being the sole measure of all worth and the source of all happiness, while inequality and environmental destruction are unfortunate but unavoidable. We need a new guiding story that aligns with our deepest understanding of the universe and our relationship to it. 2015 was the twentieth anniversary republishing of Korten's 1995 book, in which he shared insights from his personal experience as a participant in the growing movement for a   New Economy . A new Introduction documents the further concentration of wealth and corporate power since 1995 and explored why our institutions resolutely resist even modest reform. A new Conclusion chapter outlines high-leverage opportunities for breakthrough change. In Ecological Civilization: From Emergency to Emergence (2021) Korten says: "The drive to grow money imperils the human future. Money is a number that has value only when other people offer something to sell that we need or desire. Useful as a tool, money becomes dangerous when embraced as a purpose. Making the growth of monetary exchange and financial assets the defining purpose of society is an act of collective insanity. The majority suffer so the few, mostly those who already have more than they need, can grow their financial assets. The process leads ultimately to human self-extinction. There are no winners on a dead Earth." In March 2024, David Korten wrote on his website: “ Eco-nomics for an Ecological Civilization .” warning that society must eliminate fInancial extremes.” Korten's January 27, 2025 post: When Billionaires Rule the World asserts not only are "for-profit corporations surpassing democratic governments as society’s most powerful governing institutions.,, the world is now witnessing  an alliance   of tech and financial billionaires that has taken control of the administrative, judicial, and legislative branches of the world’s most powerful government.,, We have a billionare problem." In April 2025 President Trump unleashed global economic chaos through his executive order Regulating imports with a reciprocal tariff to rectify trade practices that contribute to a large and persistent annual United States goods trade deficits . Meanwhile on April 5, 2025 Congress passed H.Con.Res.14 - "establishing the congressional budget for the United States Government for fiscal year 2025 and setting forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2026 through 2034." According to PBS News Hour - Politics: News Wrap , "This is a “Republican bill that advances President Trump's proposed tax and spending cuts....The bill lays out a possible $5 trillion in tax cuts, raises the debt limit, and calls for $350 billion to fund mass deportation efforts and to build up the military. Democrats argue the bill will lead to cuts in social safety net programs. The measure now heads to the House, where Republicans are taking a different approach, including $4.5 trillion in tax cuts and envisioning changes to Medicaid, food stamps, and other programs.” April 5, 2025 on Bloomberg , Larry Fink, CEO of Blackrock said " most CEOs he talks with think we are in a recession," offering buying opportunities long term . Robert Reich also believes we will have a recession and "Trump and his billionaire buddies — the American oligarchy — have a plan... a recession is not necessarily bad for Trump and his billionaire buddies. America’s oligarchy depends on periodic recessions. Recessions are opportunities to buy up real estate, companies, and shares of stock at bargain-basement prices. Recessions also give political cover to Trump, Musk, and Republican efforts to reduce labor and environmental standards." Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim , author/producers of the Journey of the Universe book and film, are currently on tour in China showing the JOTU film and engaging in discussions about how China is building an ecological civilization. China is widely considered by many in the United States to be an economic and political enemy. This is complicated because of our economic supply-chain ties and Preident Trump's raging tariff battle. In a post-cold war enviroment many politians find it convenient to focus on threats in order to justify larger military budgets and other actions. Americans used to be champions of democracy and fear autocracy and a surveliance state. Now the real threat is internal as well as external. The Institute for the Postmodern Development of China ( IPDC) is "a local non-profit that serves as a bridge between the US and China, focusing especially on process thought and ecological civilization. The leaders, Meijun Fan and Zhihe Wang, organize conferences locally (like the annual International Forum on Ecological Civilization at Pitzer College), and bring leading thinkers from China to Claremont, CA as visiting scholars." Current United States politics is not moving us toward an "Earth Community," but other nations will readjust alliances and economic ties. What can Americans do to regain a positive balance toward the common good, which has been lost in the current administration? "If we want a society in which the sense of belonging is strong, people are concerned for one another, and there is strong commitment to the common good, we need a metaphysics that shows that we are in fact part of larger societies and have no existenece apart from our relations to others." ~ John Cobb # people-centereddevelopment