In this Pop-Up, Bruce Epperly will draw from his book The God of the Growing Edge: Whitehead and Thurman on Theology, Spirituality, and Social Change to explore the intersecting spiritual visions of two towering figures: Alfred North Whitehead, the eminent philosopher and process theologian, and Howard Thurman, the influential African American mystic, theologian, and civil rights leader. Investigating these thinkers’ complementary strengths offers a timely resource for contemplative activists seeking a deeper integration of spirituality and social transformation in our turbulent times.
Whitehead’s metaphysics provides a robust intellectual framework for understanding a universe of interconnectedness, change, and possibility, while Thurman’s lived experience of oppression and spiritual resistance infuses this framework with prophetic urgency and practical wisdom. Together, they offer a powerful and timely message for today’s world. Exploring this “growing edge” of faith offers a compelling path toward a more just, compassionate, and sustainable future.
This Pop-Up will also serve as a jumping off point for Bruce’s upcoming course with Process & Faith, Exploring Global Mysticism through a Process Lens, beginning May 6.