The Faith & Work Forum is a conversation series that discusses the interplay between faith, work, and life. Each semester we feature guest speakers with leadership experience from across a wide range of vocations, who bring authentic stories about seeking a meaningful, purpose-driven life. This program runs in partnership with our Fellows Programs and Vintage Lunch offering candid conversations over a free lunch at the historic Bonhoeffer House. Email Christy Yates to learn more. 

Betty Li Simpson (she/her) is a researcher and evaluator at the Communities In Schools (CIS) national office, a youth-serving education nonprofit. Her work supports organizational continuous improvement, expands CIS’ evidence-base, and evaluates the impact of integrated student supports in partnership with school districts, state education agencies, and community-based organizations. In her role, Betty enjoys the process of transforming big questions into practical research activities to provide relevant and actionable insights.

A double Hoo, Betty studied Biology in undergrad and has a Masters in Secondary Science Teaching from the School of Education & Human Development. Her favorite class in undergrad was The Kingdom of God in America with TH’s own Charles Marsh and fellow board member Nathan Walton. Betty also serves on the board of New City Arts. Betty enjoys cooking new dishes, traveling, and walking on neighborhood trails with her husband Joshua, their infant son Soren, and their dog Basil.

Join Karen Marsh and TH friends for a brief community time of prayer for our Election over Zoom.

Election Day Litany

(from the Transforming Center)

PREPARATION

On this election day, we come together (virtually) to pray, guided by this simple litany. This time of prayer will last about 15 minutes. As you settle in, you may wish to light a candle and collect a paper and pen to write down your personal prayers and thoughts. Remember that we come together in the spirit of Christ, honoring and respecting one another present here with all kindness. Harsh words have no place here.

ELECTION LITURGY

Light A Candle

Song

Heaven Help Us
written by Kirk Bolen (TC15)

Heaven help us, God come near us
Do what only you can do
Heaven help us, Father hear us
We’re crying out to you

Falling on our knees, we lift our eyes
to where our help comes from
Calling on your name, Lord, hear our cries
pour out your perfect love

Opening Scripture | Philippians 4:5-7 (NRSV)

Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

Silence  (3 to 5 minutes)

Surrendering Our Fears | Scripture

Take turns to write down — on paper or in the chat — the fears and concerns you are holding at this moment.  After you name these, hold them quietly in God’s presence reminding yourself that God is bigger than any fear, any burden, any obstacle, any division, any disunity, any hatred, and any lie. If it helps, sit with your hands open on your lap as a symbol of holding these concerns in God’s presence.  Whatever you are experiencing, God can handle it.  You can also wish to take the fears/burdens that you have written on a piece of paper and and gently shred them as you hear the words of Scripture being read.

2 Timothy 1:7 (NRSV)
For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline.

1 Peter 5:7 (NRSV)
Cast all your anxiety on him, because he cares for you.

Prayers of the People

As we pray as a group, we may choose to alternate speakers, taking turns serving as the reader identified as “one”.

One: O God of justice and peace, in this season of Ordinary time, we pause to reflect on the extraordinary call You place upon our lives to be faithful witnesses in all we do.

All: As we approach the time of decision in our nation, we ask for Your guidance and wisdom. Help us discern what is right and just.

One: Help us engage with a spirit of love and humility.

All: May our participation in the civic process be a reflection of our commitment to Your Kingdom, where righteousness and equity dwell.

One: We remember the sacrifices of those who came before us, who fought for the rights and freedoms we now hold.  May their courage inspire us to be vigilant and proactive in ensuring that these rights are protected for all.

All: Let our voting be an act of faithfulness, not only to our beliefs but also to the future generations who will inherit the decisions we make today.  Strengthen our resolve to work for a society that mirrors Your compassion, justice and peace.

One: As we prepare our hearts and minds to engage in this civic duty, remind us that our actions are a testament to the faith we profess.  May we be instruments of Your peace in our communities, advocating for justice and mercy with every step we take.

All: Guide our nation, O Lord, and help us be Your hands and feet in this world, committed to building a future that honors You and uplifts all of Your children.  Amen.

Silence (3 to 5 minutes)

Poem

“Democracy”
Langston Hughes

Democracy will not come
Today, this year
Nor ever
Through compromise and fear.

I have as much right
As the other fellow has
To stand
On my two feet
And own the land.

I tire so of hearing people say,
Let things take their course.
Tomorrow is another day.
I do not need my freedom when I’m dead.
I cannot live on tomorrow’s bread.

Freedom
Is a strong seed
Planted
In a great need.

I live here, too.
I want freedom
Just as you.

Blessing

(To be read together in unison.)

God, You are Mighty and Merciful. We are grateful for the right to vote, and we will not take it for granted.
Empower us to prepare our hearts to vote in a way that reflects Your justice, peace and compassion.

In Jesus’ name. Amen.

Encourage One Another

It is a strength for all of us to know that we are praying together across the country and around the world. Share this litany on to others….

And make time for thanks and praise!

1 Adapted from Sacred Votes: A Guide to Election Participation, Justice and Social Transformation. https://www.umcjustice.org/documents/336.  30-35.

All students are invited for a post-Vintage outing to begin November exploring a hidden gem nestled in the woods: Sugarbear ice cream. Join us for a quick drive over to the Rivanna River, enjoy a unique taste of Cville, and then stroll through this luminous but lesser-known spot for fall scenery!

We will provide transportation and be back on Grounds by 4 PM. Please RSVP by the end of the day on October 31st so that we can coordinate rides. We hope that you join us for this relaxing autumn excursion!

The Faith & Work Forum is a conversation series that discusses the interplay between faith, work, and life. Each semester we feature guest speakers with leadership experience from across a wide range of vocations, who bring authentic stories about seeking a meaningful, purpose-driven life. This program runs in partnership with our Fellows Programs and provides candid conversations over a free lunch at the historic Bonhoeffer House. Email Christy Yates to learn more. 

This Faith & Work Forum will be happening during our normal Vintage Lunch time on Friday, September 20th, 1-2pm. TH Fellows, Ava Flory ‘25 and Megnot Abebe ‘25, will be introducing and interviewing our two guests.

Emilia Gore is a program development and strategic communications leader from Washington, DC with extensive nonprofit experience at the intersection of culture, education, and community relations. Emilia previously worked for Fender Musical Instruments Corporation as the Program Director for the Fender Play Foundation, where she spearheaded program design and partnership development. She was recognized with the Community Volunteer Award from the Associated Administrators of Los Angeles in 2023 for her positive impact on the lives of Los Angeles Unified School District students. 

At the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts, Emilia led external relations, including marketing campaigns and event production, for Turnaround Arts. Previously, Emilia served as the Cuba Travel Program Manager at the Center for Democracy in the Americas (now known as CEDA), where she organized over 15 high-level delegations to Cuba, notably the President’s Committee on the Arts and Humanities official cultural mission in April 2016. Emilia currently sits on the Board of Directors for multiple nonprofits, including CEDA and Theological Horizons. She graduated with distinction from the University of Virginia, where she specialized in Political and Social Thought.

Two different wonder-ful gatherings are happening this Sunday in Washington, D.C. Come to one; come to both. Bring friends!

At 9:55-10:45am, Karen will speak at National Presbyterian Church (4101 Nebraska Ave NW, Washington, DC 20016) in Stone Hall,  kicking off their fall adult series with insights from my book, Wake Up ToWonder: 22 Invitations to Amazement in the Everyday.  Christians from the past — Howard Thurman, Lilias Trotter, Hildegard von Bingen and Thomas Merton — will help us to consider the question, “Why Wonder?”

From 4:30-6:00pm, friends will gather for festive food, beverages and a conversation around “Reaping Wonder in the Everyday” inspired by the practical wisdom of Sophie Scholl, Brother Lawrence, Margery Kempe and Martin Luther. Dear champions of Theological Horizons, Kate and Joel Harris, will host us in their home at 6521 32nd Street, Falls Church, VA 22406. 

This event also gives a preview of the kind of events to anticipate through the Saints of the City DC/Northern VA program…and provides an opportunity to meet and connect with others interested in those future gatherings! We hope to reflect on God’s grace and savor His goodness alongside you this Sunday.

In our dark, divided time, Jesus calls us to be Light-bearers: welcoming and generous people who draw others to God, the source of our light.

David Brooks writes that “above almost any other need, human beings long to have another person look into their faces with love and acceptance.” Whenever we see and tend to another, we embody our caring Christ, who enlightens the needy world.

Theological Horizons is committed to the healing work of seeing and being seen, knowing and being known, in Jesus’ name. This is a season brimming with encounter as David Brooks’s Scoper Lecture in Christian Thought, “KNOW BETTER: Deepening the Bonds of Communal Life,” brings people together in-person and online for rich immersive, intergenerational experiences.

From the Charlottesville Welcome Table, book discussion groups, Rotunda Dome Room panel and filmmaker conversation…to fireside student Vintage Lunches, Bible study and leisurely meals with Fellows – in all of these moments the Light of Jesus Christ burns brightly.

Will you help us keep an open house by giving generously – that we might continue to be Light-bearers and to shine where the Gospel witness is needed most? And good news! Each and every gift you give to the ministry of Theological Horizons through June 30 will be matched, dollar for dollar, thanks to the kindness of other “Illuminators.”

As Jesus reminds us: we are here to be light, bringing out the God-colors of the world.

So let’s shine – together!

Karen Wright Marsh, Executive Director

“Shine! Keep an open house;

be generous with your lives.

By opening up to others,

you’ll prompt people to open up with God,

our generous Father in heaven.”

Matthew 5:16, The Message

Celebrate the end of classes and take a breather before exams begin! Join us at the Bonhoeffer House for an end of the year picnic. Drop in anytime between 12 and 2! Friends welcome, too.

COME AT 10AM FOR THE FILMMAKER CONVERSATION WITH NICHOLAS MA!

Questions? Email info@theologicalhorizons.org

STAY ON FOR THE PANEL DISCUSSION AT 11AM!

THE 2024 SCOPER LECTURE IN CHRISTIAN THOUGHT

DAVID BROOKS WITH MELODY BARNES
APRIL 21, 2024, 3:00PM, OLD CABELL HALL, UVA

IN PERSON TICKETS ARE SOLD OUT | LIVE-STREAM TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE!

Theological Horizons is thrilled to announce that renowned author and New York Times commentator David Brooks will deliver the 3rd annual Scoper Lecture in Christian Thought in Old Cabell Hall on April 21, 2024 at the University of Virginia: the anchor event of an in-person and live-streamed community-wide, intergenerational experience.

David Brooks will draw on the themes of his new book, How to Know a Person: The Art of Seeing Others Deeply and Being Deeply Seen and exploring his sources in Christian thought. The academic lecture will illuminate Brooks’s foundational work on the complexities and urgencies of living well in a democratic society.

Brooks’s public lecture will be followed by an on-stage conversation with  UVA thought leader Melody Barnes, Executive Director at the Karsh Institute of Democracy.

In our increasingly polarized and contentious public life, David and Melody are uniquely equipped to offer guidance and wisdom about how we can better connect with one another to build a richer civic fabric that can sustain a vibrant, healthy democracy.

THEN JOIN US ON APRIL 22 for two FREE companion events in the Dome Room of the Rotunda! Read on…

The Scoper Lecture in Christian Thought is an annual series building off the Capps Lectures that brings eminent speakers to the university to deliver public lectures exploring the breadth of Christian expression in the arenas of scholarship, science and medicine, the arts, and culture. The series is generously funded by Nancy and Stephen Scoper, M.D., through their gift to the University of Virginia, designated to Theological Horizons.

How to Know a Person Book Discussion and Workshop with Diana Brawley

Join therapist and minister Diana Brawley for a deeper look at David Brooks' New York Times bestselling book, How to Know a Person. Whether you've read every word or you're just curious about the cover art, come hear why Diana considers it a valuable and well-researched tool for seeing others and being seen. Lunch Provided.

The Faith & Work Forum is a conversation series on Grounds that discusses the interplay between faith, work, and life. Each semester we feature guest speakers with leadership experience from across a wide range of vocations, who bring authentic stories about seeking a meaningful, purpose-driven life. RSVP required. Email Christy Yates to learn more. 

OUR SPRING 2024 FAITH & WORK LUNCH WILL BE ON THURSDAY, MARCH 28th, 12:30-1:30PM WITH Sheri winston.

Sheri Winston is the beloved Director for the Rotunda and University Events.

On Thursday, March 14, from noon - 1:30 p.m. (lunch available at noon, discussion 12:30 - 1:30 p.m.), The University Fellowship, in partnership with Theological Horizons, invites parishioners for a candid lunchtime conversation with Charlottesville's Mayor Juandiego Wade, a longtime member of Olivet Presbyterian Church, and former mayor Lloyd Snook, a member and trustee of St. Paul's, about the relationship between their faith and their work as community and civic leaders. Lunch provided. Contact Associate Rector for University Ministry Peter Kang for more information.

“People of all races, genders, ethnic groups, ages, economic status, and spiritual conditions talk, shout, whisper, haggle, cry, sing, and wrestle with God in film. Hollywood, Teach Us to Pray offers a roller coaster ride through American film history, highlighting the inclusion of prayers in movie narratives and opening the windows of cinema to the heavens.”

—Producer Terry Lindvall

Please join Theological Horizons and the Project on Lived Theology for a free screening of this film on Saturday, February 10 at 4pm in Newcomb Theater (180 McCormick Rd). The screening will be followed by an interview and Q&A session with the film’s producer, Professor Terry Lindvall. 

Learn more about the film: https://www.hollywoodteachustopray.com/ 

Watch the trailer: https://vimeo.com/864142676 

Questions? Contact MD Maio: mary-dryden@theologicalhorizons.org, (804) 971 7553

We know navigating the college years and next steps is hard! Please join us for a panel discussion featuring three wise friends: a life coach, a career counselor and a therapist. Learn more about what they do, why they do it and how they got there followed by a time for candid conversation.

Drinks & Snacks provided. All are welcome. Always.

Meet our PANELISTS!

Judy Schenk has a passion for people and their “big ideas.”  She holds a Masters Degree in Organization and Management, is a certified Professional Coach, and co- founder of Tinamou Consulting LLC. In 2016, she co-founded, Firepond Press, a publisher of written works that support the landscape of  human “Wholeness, Boldness, and Wonder.”  

She applies her formidable drive to launch people and organizations in the direction of positive and  lasting change.  Her work is strategic…and fun!

Judy has worked in all phases of the business process as well as in multiple service areas including Insurance, Banking/Finance, Faith Based, Tax, Audit, Oil and Gas, Business and Strategic Analysis, Learning Product Development (including Web Based Learning), Performance Solutions, Consulting Services, International Human Resources, Learning System Design, Health Care and Women’s Leadership.

Judy brings a rare combination of Coaching, Facilitation, Design, and Process Consultation skills that serve key decision makers and executive/emerging leaders in both the profit and not-for-profit sectors well.  Judy uses these unique design and learning methodologies to influence, accelerate, and amplify performance that makes a real difference.

Judy enjoys writing, rowing crew, and stewarding a small farm in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia.

She is a poet and published author of In.tu.it The Poems of an American Woman. 

Most importantly, she celebrates life with her husband and business partner, Chris.  Together they have three accomplished children who are applying their unique talents to make this world a better place for everyone.  

Mary originally joined New City Counseling as a staff counselor in 2008 and returned in 2015 after living for six years in Colorado. She has a master's degree in mental health counseling from the University of Virginia. She has clinical experience serving a broad clientele and enjoys working with couples, women, and multicultural clients. Mary worked with families as an intern for the Charlottesville League of Therapists and with students at the University of Virginia Women's Career Center. She also has experience working in Ethiopia, where she served with Women at Risk (WAR), providing counsel to women who are heads of households and struggling to overcome lives involving poverty, prostitution, and addiction, and with an HIV/AIDS team supported by SIM and MTW missions, where she worked as a group leader and women's counselor. She had a private practice in Colorado Springs until her return to New City. Mary was born and raised in Ethiopia to an Ethiopian mother and an Indian father. When she is not counseling, she loves spending time with her large extended family, traveling, reading, and napping. She is married to her better half and is the grateful mother of four children.

Hunter helps students of all years and majors with major and/or career development. He works with students in various capacities including one-on-one appointments, drop-in hours, and/or classroom presentations. As a member of the Exploration community, Hunter can help students who are trying to discover their major and how that connects to a career. Hunter also serves as the co-lead of the Career Peer Educator (CPE) program, overseeing 20 undergraduate student employees who help in the career development of their fellow students. Hunter also serves as the co-lead for the internal diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) team within the Career Center.

Prior to joining the UVA Career Center in August 2017, Hunter was a graduate Career Coach at the University of Kansas helping students navigate the career exploration process. He also worked with the Women’s Center as the Men and Masculinities Intern, creating and delivering presentations to various student groups on the definitions of healthy masculinity and how it benefits all people. Hunter is passionate about helping students discover what it is they want to do. With a background in gender and racial inequality, Hunter utilizes an intersectional lens to better serve students who have been marginalized.

Hunter studied Sociology as an undergraduate before receiving his Master’s in Higher Education Administration. Both of his degrees come from the University of Kansas. In his free time Hunter enjoys catching up on the latest movies/shows, Twitter, or trying the latest restaurant Charlottesville has to offer.

Join us for a a welcome back drop-in Vintage Lunch as we return to the beloved Bonhoeffer House! 1841 University Circle. Our new lunch series, Vintage Christianity: Ancient Practices for New Purpose will begin with an exploration of Commitments -- from small, everyday habits to consequential career decisions. Join the conversation around how to shape a life, one commitment at a time.

WHAT IS VINTAGE?

Vintage Lunch is weekly hour of free food and discussion about the spiritual life - sparked by classic concepts, stories and practices from the Christian tradition. Here we learn from people who followed Jesus in their own times and places – across centuries, continents, and identities.  These older brothers and sisters, sometimes called saints,  are mentors and friends who help us understand our own lives, our own times, our own faith.  

Our motto here is All welcome. Always.  And we mean that.  Whether you are a lifelong Christian, questioning or convinced in your faith, simply curious about spirituality, or you just came for the free lunch, we would be so very grateful to have you here.

WHERE & WHEN?

You’ll find us at the beloved Bonhoeffer House, 1841 University Circle.

EVERY FRIDAY FROM 1-2PM

For more info or to get invites, contact Karen karen@theologicalhorizons.org 434-466-1342

All are welcome. Always. No preparation is necessary.

WMRA’s January Books & Brews will feature Karen Wright Marsh, discussing Wake Up To Wonder.

Live at Pale Fire Brewing Co., Tuesday, January 9, 2024 at 7pm and available later on WMRA's YouTube Channel and on Facebook.

Signed copies of Wake Up To Wonder will be available at the event and online at Stone Soup Books.

WMRA's Books & Brews is made possible thanks to our series sponsor, Gaines Group Architects. The Gaines Group has offices in Charlottesville and Harrisonburg.

About Wake Up To Wonder

In her quest to live a vibrant spiritual life, Karen Wright Marsh had a revelation: she didn't need to find and follow the perfect plan; she needed people she could follow.

In Wake Up to Wonder, Marsh introduces us to those people: 22 faithful yet oh-so-human Christians from across centuries and cultures. Inspired by their example, she offers playful, simple practices that bring deeper meaning and purpose to everyday life -- a collage of spiritual and personal experiments anyone can do.

Wake up to wonder and discover that a life of spiritual depth, amazement, and connection is within reach, today and every day.

About the Author

Karen Wright Marsh is an author, speaker and the executive director and cofounder of Theological Horizons, a ministry that supports Christians & seekers in academia by providing a welcoming community for engaging faith, thought & life. She is the host of the Vintage Saints and Sinners podcast. She holds degrees in philosophy from Wheaton College & linguistics from the University of Virginia. Karen lives with Charles Marsh, a UVA professor, at the Bonhoeffer House in Charlottesville, Virginia.

Join TH Board Member and friend, Rev. Dr. Nathan Walton as he shared on the topic of conversations of forgiveness. Walton is Co-Lead Pastor at East End Fellowship Church in Richmond, VA. He was previously the Executive Director of Abundant Life Ministries in Charlottesville. He’s passionate about pastoral ministry, teaching and community engagement.

Don’t miss this special Vintage at St. Paul’s Memorial Church. All are welcome. Always.

The Faith & Work Forum is a conversation series on Grounds that discusses the interplay between faith, work, and life. Each semester we feature guest speakers with leadership experience from across a wide range of vocations, who bring authentic stories about seeking a meaningful, purpose-driven life. RSVP required. Email Christy Yates to learn more. 

OUR second FALL 2023 FAITH & WORK LUNCH WITH BE ON THURSDAY, November 9th, 12:30-1:30PM WITH CLAUDE ATCHO & SAM HEATH. IN PERSON ONLy at the Bonhoeffer house.

Claude Atcho is an award-winning author and ordained priest in the Anglican Church of North America. He serves as the pastor of Church of the Resurrection in Charlottesville, VA, having previously pastored in Boston, MA and Memphis, TN. Claude is the author of Reading Black Books: How African American Literature Can Make Our Faith More Whole and Just, and his writing has been featured in Christianity Today, Think Christian, and The Witness: A Black Collective. Claude previously taught writing and literature at the collegiate level and holds masters degrees in both English Literature and Theological Studies. 

Sam leads EJUSA’s engagement with evangelical people and spaces. His faith background enables him to tell stories about the realities of justice and injustice in America and hold together a view of the world as a place both exceptional and exploitative. Before coming on board with EJUSA in 2021, Sam taught high school history for 10 years in North Carolina and Virginia. He has a B.A. in education and psychology from University of North Carolina Chapel Hill and a master’s in theology, ethics, and culture from the University of Virginia. He also helps facilitate the Charlottesville Area Justice Coalition.