ROUND
COMMON
G
FALL 2016 BULLETIN
EDITORIAL — CHOOSING
BETWEEN TWO WAVES
Six years ago, I was thrilled with the publication
of Thriving in the Crosscurrent, my book on cultural evolution and the rare but powerful periods (which I call “Sea Changes”) in which that
evolutionary process is dramatically accelerated.
The Scientific Revolution, underway in the 16th
century, was one; we’re now living through
another. I argued in the book (and am even more
persuaded today) that, in these periods, human
culture moves steadily and rapidly in the direction of a closer fit between its dominant values
and our ever more perceptive grasp of reality.
So why doesn’t it feel like it? Some readers may
protest that the state of the world seems to reflect
very different trends. We are moving, they may
argue, in an ethnocentric direction. World-centrism is just a foolish dream. The global political
or social or cultural reality doesn’t seem to suggest evolution. We are daily faced with everything from incivility, to intolerance, to racialism,
and outright racism, to global violence. The realities seem to argue for devolution.
I meet this reaction quite frequently, as I argue
that the long-dominant “older value wave” is
resource persons
Jim Kenney, CG Executive Director, Executive Director, Common Ground; former Global Director, Parliament of the World’s Religions and Project Coordinator,
the Peace Council; author, Thriving in the Crosscurrent.
Linda Kimball, CG Administrator, former Executive
Director, OASIS Chicago; Co-Owner/Director, Great
Age Productions; Consultant on Not-for-Profit Management and Development; Licensed Real Estate Broker.
Laura Bernstein, MA, University of Chicago; rabbinical
studies, Hebrew Seminary of the Deaf; leader and composer of interfaith chants; author of poetry and articles
on spirituality; co-author of Healing the Jewish-Christian Rift.
Herbert W. Bronstein, regular CG faculty; Senior
Rabbi Emeritus, North Shore Congregation Israel;
editor, Liturgies for the Reform Movement; lecturer, Lake
Forest College; Shakespearean scholar; expert on religions.
Rosemary Hurwitz, MA, PS, Loyola University; twenty
years experience in career consulting and in leading
retreats for Discovery weekends; over ten years studying
the Enneagram, certified in 2001.
Kenneth James, regular CG faculty; diplomate Jungian
psychoanalyst in private practice; Ph.D., Northwestern
University; Diploma in Analytical Psychology, C.G.
Jung Institute of Chicago; Director of Student Services
at the University of Chicago Laboratory Schools.
Carl Jerome, regular CG faculty; founding teacher,
North Shore Meditation and Dharma Center; Senior
declining in influence and that a newer, more
progressive wave is ascending. I always stress,
however, that ours is the time of crossing. A
declining set of values (from patriarchy, economic inequality, and denial of basic human
rights to ecological neglect and diminishment of
the other) still holds enormous influence. But
the newer wave, embodying peace and non-violent conflict resolution, social and economic justice, universal human rights, and ecological sustainability, is clearly on the rise.
The habits of thought that nurtured patriarchy,
harbored racism, estranged civilizations, tolerated injustice, refined the arts of war, and
presided over the rape of the planet have been
challenged as never before. Their influence has
sharply lessened, but their institutional and cultural infrastructures remain in place. At the same
historical moment, however, a powerful array of
contrasting values, hopes, and dreams is taking
shape as a new cultural wave ascends to take the
place of the receding older tide.
In every sea change, a moment arrives at which
the influence of the declining value wave and
that of the ascending newer wave are approximately equal. And we’re experiencing that today.
The time of evolutionary crossing — and choice —
Dharma Teacher, Mid-America Buddhist Association;
meditation teacher, Cancer Wellness Center, Northbrook.
Jim Kendros, Music Historian; Northbrook Symphony's Composer Fellow - 2014; Lake Forest Symphony's
Resident Historian; Composer, Performer, Lecturer.
Jerrol Leitner, regular CG faculty; M.A., Theology, St.
John University, Collegeville, MN; M.A., English,
Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL; retired; 40
years teaching English and Theology.
John Nygro, musician, conductor, actor; lecturer on subjects from classical theater and opera to medieval and Renaissance music to film and television; presenter at Northwestern University, Newberry Library, Lyric Opera of
Chicago Chapters, and Center for Life and Learning; regular instructor on classical radio stations and NPR.
Jerome O’Connor
Journalist; author; US Naval Institute Author of the Year;
educator at local area colleges; certified Chicago tour
guide; lecturer on board the Queen Mary 2.
Maurice Pickard, regular CG faculty; medical school,
University of Illinois College of Medicine; residency, University of Illinois Hospital, Chicago and the University of
California; retired from private practice and currently
focused on ethics in medicine.
Ahmad Sadri, regular CG faculty; Ph.D., New School for
Social Research; College Professor of Islamic World Studies, Lake Forest College; author of several books, in Persian and in English, including Max Weber’s Sociology of
Individuals and his recent translation of the Shanameh (the
has, for better and for worse, arrived. Chaotic
change and vanishing certainties have produced
identity crises and challenges to existing power
structures. Various forms of extremism, pseudopopulism, neo-nationalism, and demagoguery
are clearly emerging. And, to be sure, they will
make the crossing even more turbulent.
However, new understanding, values, and commitments will also enrich and enliven it. And it’s
essential to remember a critical feature of the
transition. The older wave is heavy with an inertia that can sometimes feel irresistible. But the
newer wave has momentum on its side. And
that’s the difference. The idea whose time has
come has a magic all its own. When you choose
to be a part of the next big thing, you feel and
you exude energy, confidence, and hope.
Jim Kenney
Executive Director, Common Ground
COVER: “On the Path to the Merton’s Hermitage,” photo by Cetta Kenney. In this lovely
photo, we see members of the International
Interreligious Peace Council near Thomas
Merton’s hermitage at Gethsemani Abbey, in
Kentucky. The photo includes Fr. Thomas
Keating, Ven Samdhong Rinpoche, Rev.
Gonzalo Ituarte, Joseph Elder, Jim Kenney,
and others.
Persian Book of Kings).
Larrry Suffredin, regular CG faculty; attorney, Georgetown University; Member of the Cook County Board of
Commissioners, 13th District.
Nancy Tuchman, regular CG faculty; Ph.D., Aquatic
Ecology; Founding Director, Institute of Environmental
Sustainability, Loyola University, Chicago.
Pauline Viviano, regular CG faculty; Ph.D., Biblical
Languages and Literature, St. Louis University; Associate Professor of Theology, Loyola University, Chicago;
recently completed a commentary on the Books of Jeremiah
and Baruch for the new Collegeville Commentary Series.
John Wasik, regular CG faculty; M.A., the University
of Illinois-Chicago; has lectured across the U.S.; author
of 13 books including his latest, Lightning Strikes.
CONTENTS
1 News • resource persons
2 Morning Lecture Series
3 Wednesday Evening Series
4 CG Satellites
5 Meditation, St. Hildegard
6 Fees and Registration, Donors and Sponsorships
7 Special Events, Third Thursdays,
Spiritual Practice at CG
Fall 2016 • 1
MORNING LECTURES
Unless otherwise noted, all programs are held at the Deerfield Center.
TUESDAY MORNINGS
TUESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 13-OCTOBER 4
9:30–11:30 AM (4 WEEKS) $52
JIM KENNEY
1914 TO 9/11 — THE U.S.
AND THE MIDDLE EAST
At the beginning of World War I, the United
States was only a rising power, with a fairly
benign reputation among Middle Easterners
— often grateful for the educational and philanthropic generosity the Americans offered.
But by September 11, 2001, all that had
changed. The U.S. was the target of jihadis
bent on attacking the West for its perceived
offenses against Islam. We will turn to history
in our search for understanding — from the
rise and growth of Saudi Arabia, Iran, and
Israel, to the intensification of the Cold War,
and the increasing antagonism between Americans and Middle Easterners that finds its ugliest expression in extremism on both sides. But
we’ll also be looking to the future in our search
for hope.
TUESDAY, OCTOBER 11-25
9:30–11:30 AM (3 WEEKS) $39
JIM KENNEY
PAPER — PAGING
THROUGH HISTORY
In so many ways, paper holds the world
together; and it's not going away any time
soon. Once again, Common Ground is off on
a compelling historical and intellectual adventure, with the help of historian Mark Kurlansky, author of two earlier books that opened
equally surprising windows on the world (Cod:
a Biography of the Fish that Changed the World
and Salt: a History of the World). The invention
and refinement of paper is of course inextricably intertwined with that of writing for the
masses. It also remains essential to technology,
the arts, hygiene, warfare, progress, cultural
evolution, and human self-understanding. Its
story is astoundingly intriguing and one must be
grateful to Kurlansky for setting “paper” ... to itself.
TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 1-8
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
JIM KENNEY
THE FINAL COUNTDOWN —
ELECTION 2016
As this Bulletin goes to press, the two major
parties have wrapped up their conventions,
and the projections suggest a very close election. Can Clinton overcome her “unfavorable”
ratings? Can Trump win over the demographic
sectors he’s alienated? And how will the presidential contest affect the “down ballot” races.
This two-week workshop winds up on election
day 2016. Anyone who’s not nervous by then
2 • Common Ground
isn’t paying attention.
TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 15-22
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
JIM KENNEY
RUSSIA, PUTIN, AND POWER
Understanding Russia and Russian internal
politics has always been a challenge. But never
more so than today, as Russia-watchers find
themselves pondering Churchill's enduring
"riddle-mystery-enigma" one-liner while trying to decipher Vladimir Putin's latest improbabilities. Bullying former Warsaw Pact allies,
hacking Democratic Party emails, even hatching some bizarre strategy with Donald Trump
as unwitting stalking horse? What is the
thoughtful analyst to make of this increasingly
aggressive strongman, as he grows more worrisome to Europe, China, and the U.S, and less
and less popular in his homeland?
TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 29-DECEMBER 6
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
MAURICE PICKARD
CONFLICTS IN MEDICINE
Since his retirement a few years ago from private practice in Highland Park, IL, Dr. Maurice Pickard has established a reputation as a
deeply knowledgeable and persuasive speaker
on a range of topics relating to issues of moral
tension that exist in connection with various
health issues. We’re delighted that Maurie
Pickard has agreed to join us as a regular member of the CG faculty. In this two-week series,
he’ll take on the complex and compelling question of epidemics, including Sars, Ebola, and
now Zika. We’ll touch on quarantine, vaccination, travel restrictions, rationing, and research
in countries that do not benefit from the
results. In a related topic, we’ll take a look at
issues surrounding research on humans and
the controversial role of “Big Pharma.”
WEDNESDAY MORNINGS
“THE HUMAN SEARCH”
WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 14-21
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
JIM KENNEY
THE MIND OF
TEILHARD DE CHARDIN
Fr. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin was a paleontologist (the principal researcher on the Homo
Erectus fossil known as “Peking Man”), a powerful advocate for biological evolution, a brilliant theologian, a deeply prayerful mystic, and
ever a controversial figure in the Church he
loved. In this brief workshop, we’ll touch on
some of the highlights of his profound
thought, his impact on Catholicism and
Christianity, and the reasons why he remains
a beacon to so many seekers today.
WEDNESDAYS, SEPTEMBER 28-OCTOBER 5
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
PAULINE VIVIANO
“THERE IS NOTHING BETTER
THAN TO EAT, DRINK, AND FIND
ENJOYMENT” — WISDOM IN
THE HEBREW BIBLE.
The Wisdom literature of the Hebrew Bible
does not meditate on the wondrous acts of
God on behalf of Israel, but reflects upon the
experience of life in all its complexity. In this
two week series we will look at Israel’s wisdom
tradition, its origins and characteristics, and
then focus on the Book of Ecclesiastes with its
assessment that “all is vanity” and therefore
“there is nothing better than to eat, drink, and
enjoy.” (Eccl. 2:24)
NO CLASS OCTOBER 12 • YOM KIPPUR
WEDNESDAYS, OCTOBER 19-26
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
JERROL LEITNER
THE GOSPEL OF MARY
OF MAGDALA
According to the second century Gospel of
Mary of Magdala, Mary is Jesus’ confidante,
his interpreter, and his replacement. She supports Jesus’ ministry financially and may have
been “the beloved disciple” mentioned in
John’s Gospel. Jesus divulges to her teachings
unknown to other disciples, and after the resurrection she occupies the position he leaves
vacant. And yet early in Christianity, Mary of
Magdala becomes a woman dishonored and
discarded. This talk examines the woman, the
myth, and the gospel that bears her name.
WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 2-9
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
HERBERT BRONSTEIN AND JIM KENNEY
THE JEW IN THE LOTUS
In an age of religious dialogue as well as discord, it seems timely to revisit this deeply
moving 2009 account of Jews and Buddhists
getting to know one another in India. While
accompanying eight high-spirited Jewish delegates to Dharamsala, India, for a historic
Buddhist-Jewish dialogue with the Dalai
Lama, poet Rodger Kamenetz comes to
understand the convergence of Buddhist and
Jewish thought. Along the way he encounters
Ram Dass and Richard Gere, and dialogues
with leading rabbis and Jewish thinkers,
including Zalman Schacter, Yitz and Blue
Greenberg, and a host of religious and disaffected
Jews and Jewish Buddhists. This amazing jourWednesday Mornings continued on p. 3.
WEDNESDAY AM
WORKSHOPS
(CONTINUED)
ney through Tibetan Buddhism and Judaism
leads Kamenetz to a renewed appreciation of
his living Jewish roots.
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 16
9:30–11:30 AM (1 WEEKS) $15
CARL JEROME
WEDNESDAY EVENINGS
LECTURES ARE HELD ON ALTERNATE WEDNESDAYS AT THE CG CENTER (DEERFIELD)
7:00-8:30 P.M. • $15/LECTURE
NOTE THE NEW TIME SLOT!
From now on, CG’s Wednesday evening
lecures will begin at 7:00 pm and last 90
minutes (till 8:30 pm). As before, they will
be held on alternate Wednesdays.
ABIDING IN CONDITIONS
SEPTEMBER 21 • JERROL LEITNER
Mindfulness is the practice of abiding in conditions. Enlightenment, in the Buddhist vernacular, is abiding in conditions. Abiding in
conditions is seeing things, in psychotherapeutic jargon, bottom up rather than top
down. Regardless of your perspective, if you
want to live a peaceful, happy and healthy life,
you will need to become skilled at abiding in
conditions, skilled at living in awareness of the
present moment, with an open heart and
mind.
THE GOSPEL OF MARY
OF MAGDALA
NO CLASS NOVEMBER 23
WEDNESDAYS, NOVEMBER 30-DECEMBER 7
9:30–11:30 AM (2 WEEKS) $26
KENNETH JAMES
JUNG, DIVINATION,
AND SYNCHRONICITY
Many people still wonder why the eminent
psychiatrist and analyst C.G. Jung, studied
such academically off-limits subjects such as
flying saucers, alchemy, and divination ("fortune telling"), along with more traditional
psychological topics. In particular, the interest he showed in various forms of divination,
such as astrology and the I Ching, seem puzzling to non-Jungians, and even to some Jungians. In this class, we will explore how divination techniques are particular expressions
of Jung's concept of synchronicity. Recognizing that events can be linked not only through
cause and effect, but also by way of shared and
intuited connections between seemingly unrelated, "coincidental" occurrences, Jung demonstrated that divination techniques take advantage of synchronicity to gather information that
is not available in other ways.
According to the second century Gospel of
Mary of Magdala, Mary is Jesus’ confidante,
his interpreter, and his replacement. She supports Jesus’ ministry financially and may have
been “the beloved disciple” mentioned in
John’s Gospel. Jesus divulges to her teachings
unknown to other disciples, and after the resurrection she occupies the position he leaves
vacant. And yet early in Christianity, Mary of
Magdala becomes a woman dishonored and
discarded. This talk examines the woman, the
myth, and the gospel that bears her name.
OCTOBER 5 • JIM KENNEY
FIRESIDE CHAT — SPEAKING
FREELY ABOUT ELECTION 2016
The Fireside Chat format has proven to be very
successful, so we're giving it another try. This
time, though, while all topics are still welcome,
we'll be placing the emphasis on politics, and
particularly on Jim's sometimes challenging, but
always very informed take on things. If you've
always wondered (really?!) where he stands on
Donald J. Trump, Hillary Clinton, Bernie
Sanders...or any of the critical issues of our time,
now’s the chance to get engaged. Civility rules!
the genius inventor Nikola Tesla as a lens to
show how we can spark our own creativity and
innovation. He will tell the story of how the
inventor created radio, the modern electrical
grid, robotics and wireless/remote control. For
those who are intrigued by the Tesla car,
Google, or drones, this is an exciting journey
of inspiration and discovery. We’ll also venture
into future technologies and a vision for global
energy.
NOVEMBER 16 • JIM KENNEY
FASCISM AND PROTO-FASCISM
IN AMERICA?
Can it happen here? Can a home-grown but
fully-formed fascist movement ever rise in the
U.S.? Some analysts argue that it's already
underway, at least in a precursor form sometimes called "proto-fascism." They cite some
evident and alarming social tendencies — ultranationalism, pseudo-populism, and myths of
rebirth — as evidence. Other thinkers argue
that many of the key elements of genuine fascism are absent, and will almost certainly remain
so. Who’s right? Join us for a careful inquiry.
NOVEMBER 30 • AHMAD SADRI
RELIGION AND TERRORISM IN
THE 21ST CENTURY
Why does religion, of all human institutions,
play such a prominent role in 21st-century terrorism? In this lecture we will start by exploring anarchist, leftist, right-wing and nationalist
varieties
of
terrorism
before
addressing religious terrorism. We will
then examine Christian, Islamist (Shi’ite or
Sunni branches), Sikh/Hindu, and Buddhist
varieties of religious terrorism.
OCTOBER 19 • LARRY SUFFREDIN
HOW ILLINOIS IMPACTS THE
NATIONAL ELECTIONS
Join Cook County Commissioner Larry Suffredin as he shares his enormous knowledge of
the Chicago, Illinois, and national political
scenes and reflects on how Illinois matters up
and down the ballot. Among tonight’s topics:
the U.S. Senate race pitting Mark Kirk against
Tammy Duckworth, and what the outcome
will mean in Washington; an inquiry into
Democrats’ chances of controlling the Illinois
Congressional delegation, with special attention to 5 races; and a look at what Donald
Trump’s candidacy may mean for legislative
races here in the state, and what it may mean for
donor bases and the balance of power in Illinois.
CG’s Founders
(Ron Miller and Jim Kenney)
NOVEMBER 2 • JOHN WASIK
LIGHTNING STRIKES — TESLA,
CREATIVITY AND THE WAY
FORWARD
Based on his upcoming book Lightning Strikes,
John Wasik will use the life and inventions of
Fall 2016 • 3
COMMON GROUND SATELLITE PROGRAMS
CG CHICAGO
CG CRYSTAL LAKE
77 West Washington St. at Clark, Chicago.
Usually on Thursdays, 7-9 pm, $10. Presented
in partnership with the Swedenborg Library.
(For information: 312-346-7003.) Note day
change.
First Congregational United Church of Christ,
Pierson and Florence Streets, Crystal Lake;
usually, 2nd Thursday of the month,
7:30–9:30 pm, $10. Follow Rte. 14 (Northwest Highway) to Florence St., one block
southeast of Dole Ave. Go south on Florence
for one block. Parking behind the church.
Enter through west side door.
SEPTEMBER 15 • AHMAD SADRI
RELIGION AND TERRORISM IN
THE 21ST CENTURY
Why does religion, of all human institutions,
play such a prominent role in 21st-century terrorism? In this lecture we will start by exploring anarchist, leftist, right-wing and nationalist
varieties
of
terrorism
before
addressing religious terrorism. We will
then examine Christian, Islamist (Shi’ite or
Sunni branches), Sikh/Hindu, and Buddhist
varieties of religious terrorism.
OCTOBER 13 • JERROL LEITNER
THE GOSPEL OF MARY
OF MAGDALA
According to the second century Gospel of
Mary of Magdala, Mary is Jesus’ confidante,
his interpreter, and his replacement. She supports Jesus’ ministry financially and may have
been “the beloved disciple” mentioned in
John’s Gospel. Jesus divulges to her teachings
unknown to other disciples, and after the resurrection she occupies the position he leaves
vacant. And yet early in Christianity, Mary of
Magdala becomes a woman dishonored and
discarded. This talk examines the woman, the
myth, and the gospel that bears her name.
SEPTEMBER 15 • JIM KENNEY
BUDDHISM AND CHRISTIANITY —
CONTEMPLATION AND ACTION
(See description under CG Chicago.)
OCTOBER 13 • JOHN WASIK
LIGHTNING STRIKES — TESLA,
CREATIVITY AND THE WAY
FORWARD
Based on his upcoming book Lightning Strikes,
John Wasik will use the life and inventions of
the genius inventor Nikola Tesla as a lens to
show how we can spark our own creativity and
innovation. He will tell the story of how the
inventor created radio, the modern electrical
grid, robotics and wireless/remote control. For
those who are intrigued by the Tesla car,
Google, or drones, this is an exciting journey
of inspiration and discovery. We’ll also venture
into future technologies and a vision for global
energy.
NOVEMBER 10 • JERROL LEITNER
THE GOSPEL OF MARY
OF MAGDALA
(See description under CG Chicago.)
NOVEMBER 10 • JIM KENNEY
BUDDHISM AND CHRISTIANITY —
CONTEMPLATION AND ACTION
One of the most venerable and most influential differences that long separated Christianity and Buddhism lies in the centuries-long
discussion of the respective merits of a life of
contemplation versus a life devoted to active
service to the community, the needy, and the
larger world. Can the deep inner spiritual life
and the life of active compassionate service
exist in isolation from each other? Or is “spiritually motivated social engagement” the ideal
to which the seeker should aspire? In recent
years, the two traditions have, in many
respects, begun to converge. Buddhism (influenced by Thich Nhat Hanh and the Dalai
Lama) has developed a new emphasis on
“engagement” with the world. Christianity
(guided by Thomas Merton, Thomas Keating,
Joan Chittister, and many others) offers a
renewed and very modern emphasis on the
inner life. We’ll explore this remarkable rapprochement.
4 • Common Ground
CG GLENVIEW
CG Glenview is hosted by the Glenview Community Church, 1000 Elm Street, Glenview
60025. Park behind the church and enter
through the Church Office door. Lectures are
usually held on the 3rd Wednesday of the
month, from 7:00-9:00 pm, $10.
CREATIVITY AND THE WAY
FORWARD
(See description under CG Crystal Lake.)
CG GRAYSLAKE
CG Grayslake is hosted by the Wildwood
Presbyterian Church, 18630 W. Old Gages
Lake Road, Grayslake, IL 60030. Park in the
lot and use the main entrance. Lectures are
usually held monthly, as indicated in the Bulletin, from 7:00 to 9:00 pm, $10.
SEPTEMBER 30 • JIM KENNEY
THE FALL OF THE OTTOMANS —
A MEDIEVAL-MODERN HINGE
The entry of the Ottoman Empire into the
World War in 1914 added a powerful new religious complication to what had until then
been a struggle among Christian nations. The
greatest Muslim military power now took the
field against Britain, France, and Russia — as
an ally of Austria-Hungary and Germany. It's
a complex tale, but its most fascinating dimensions, however, may lie in the interweaving of
religion and politics, and in the crumbling of
old empires on every side.
OCTOBER 28 • AHMAD SADRI
RELIGION AND TERRORISM IN
THE 21ST CENTURY
(See description under CG Chicago.)
NOVEMBER 11 • JERROL LEITNER
THE FIRST GOSPEL
About 70 CE, a writer identified as “Mark”
composed the first gospel — a truncated life
of Jesus recalling his message and actions,
stressing his suffering and death—but curiously not mentioning any resurrection appearances. Using selections from the gospel, this
talk investigates the way Mark collected and
ordered materials to craft his theological image
of Jesus the Christ, and his immense influence
on the later gospels of Matthew and Luke.
SEPTEMBER 21 • JIM KENNEY
BUDDHISM AND CHRISTIANITY —
CONTEMPLATION AND ACTION
(See description under CG Crystal Lake.)
OCTOBER 19 • JERROL LEITNER
THE GOSPEL OF MARY
OF MAGDALA
(See description under CG Chicago.)
NOVEMBER 16 • JOHN WASIK
LIGHTNING STRIKES — TESLA,
VISIT OUR
WEBSITE
WWW.CG.ORG
A Meditation
from the December 2015 issue of Intertreligious Insight
St. Hildegard of Bingen, OSB, was a German Benedictine abbess, writer, artist, composer, philosopher, Christian mystic, visionary, and
accomplished scholar. An inspiration to feminist theologians and spiritual seekers, she was canonized in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI.
This meditation is taken from Earth Prayers From Around the World, Edited by Elizabeth Roberts and Elias Amidon. San Francisco,
Harper Collins. Used with permission of the authors.
Fall 2016 • 5
FEES AND REGISTRATION
PROGRAM FEES
LECTURE SERIES
2-, 3-, 4-, 5-, 6-week Lecture Series:
Entire series $26, $39, $52, $65,
$78; single session $15
SINGLE LECTURES
Single evening presentations $15 or
$13 with CG Pass;
Satellites: $10/lecture (no discounts)
Student discount: $8 for all 2-hour
lectures
(No other discounts)
LECTURE PASSES
“Lecture Passes” may be used for
all CG
Deerfield and CG Satellite
(except Naples) lecture programs
and workshop sessions. They are
not valid for “Special Events”
offerings.
Passes may be purchased at the
CG Center
or by calling or writing.
Passes: 5 Sessions/$65; 10 Sessions: $130.
If you have questions about the CG program, please contact Linda Kimball at
the CG Center
([email protected] OR 847-940-7870).
Unless otherwise noted, programs are held at
the CG Center (adjacent to the Christ United
Methodist Church, at 815 Rosemary Terrace,
just north of Deerfield Rd.). It is one block
east of Waukegan Rd. and two miles west of
Route 41 at the Deerfield Rd. exit. You can
pre-register for classes online, at the CG web
site, www.cg.org or by calling the CG Center.
COMMON GROUND,
P.O. BOX 1435
DEERFIELD, IL 60015
TEL.: (847) 940-7870
FAX: (847) 940-7872
[email protected]
6 • Common Ground
DONORS, MARCH 18, 2016 - JULY 22, 2016
Barbara Adriansen
Renee Alexander
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Tom and Rosalie Amos
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Dewitt and Michele Baldwin
Sanford and Renee Bank
Ellyn M. Batko
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Margaret Benson
Lois Berman
Harriet Bernstein
Marilyn Biederer
Peg Bradley
Henry and Lois Brandt
John and Linda Brodson
Ellen Katz Brosamie
Jack Buffington
Karen Burham
Norma Lee Cape
Fred Carman
Sherry Cohen
Bob Coleman
Bruce and Meg Crowther
Robert O. Delaney
Marcia Denberg
Marilynn Doane
Richard and Janice Domanik
Neil and Ruth Dritz
Margaret C. Fasano
John Fischer
Joan Friedman
Pauline J. Friedman
William and Kristina Gall
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Dr. Alan Kaplin
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Philip W. Kenny
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Mary K. Knight
Jerry and Sonya Konopken
Janice Kupperman
David and Darlene Landsittel
Nanda LaPata
Mary Ann Lawson
Diana Leal
Jerrol and Lou Leitner
Mike and Ronit Levy
Norman Libman
Sheila Mahoney
David Marks
Elizabeth Martin
Raymond and Kathryn Mazza
Jean B. McGrew
Jack and Marcia Melamed
Lois Melvoin
Daniel and Maria Metz
Carol Mitchel
William R. Muenster
John Near
Susan Neu
Barbara Newman
Clare B. Nimer
Seymour Nordenberg
Eugene Novak
Cathryn O’Brien
Roger and Peggy O’Brien
Susan Link Olsen
Theodore Olson
Mary C. Petersen
Patricia Pickard
Lucille Pirri
Avis Primack
Marsha Ray
Joyce A. Reis
Irma Patricia Reiss
Phillip Richman
Ann V. Roberts
Sharon Rothstein
Philip and Laura Rovang
E. Susan Rubenstein
Jean Sampson
Edna Schade
Gloria Schall
The Dorothy Schnadig Trust
Dr. Sara K. Schneider
Susan Iso Schneider
Bill and Donna Seeley
Walter D. Sherman, Jr.
Enoch Silverstein
Patricia Slawniak
Marjorie Slocum
Robert and Sue Steiner
Elaine Stenzel
Dale Stern
Allan and Terri Sweig
Frank and Nina Thorp
J. Michael Tooman
Timothy Ts’o
Myrna Tyson
Nello Vignocchi
Frank Wagenaar
Maureen Watier
Norman Weisberg
Elizabeth Werrenrath
Harvey Wineberg
Paul and Carole Wisner
Sylvia Wolfson
Nafisa Zaffarkhan
Marianne Zelewsky
THE COMMON GROUND TRIBUTE FUND
Celebrate a birthday, anniversary or special occasion.... Remember a departed friend or loved one....
Show your gratitude and admiration for the notable contributions of a special person.... Or sponsor a
program at Common Ground to show your appreciation of our work.... You can do any or all of these
things with a gift to the Common Ground Tribute Fund. At the same time, you’ll be lending your support to CG as a unique center for inquiry, study, and dialogue.
In Memory of Ruth Dritz
Linda Kimball
Barbara Schwimmer
Jim and Cetta Kenney
In Memory of Sue Caffrey
Marylynn Skantz
In Memory of Leila Hancock
Linda and Robert Kimball
In Memory of Ron Miller
Jim and Cetta Kenney
In Memory of Diane Olson
Joan Brudenell
In Memory of Marilynn Taras
Margaret O’Brien-Ferruzzi
Einar Strom
In Memory of Marilyn Weisberg
Marylynn Skantz
In Honor of All Common Ground Supporters
Marilyn Biederer
In Honor of Chungliang Al Huang
Jim and Cetta Kenney
In Honor of Jim Kenney
Lois M. Berman
Harold Kasimow
In Honor of Linda and Bob Kimball
Joan Waxman
Sponsorship of the 3rd Thursday Series
Gloria Callaci and Larry Suffredin
SPECIAL EVENTS
Unless otherwise noted, all Special Events
are held at the CG Center in Deerfield.
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 1
9:45 AM-3:00 PM $75
NANCY TUCHMAN AND JIM KENNEY
FIELD TRIP — A VISIT TO
LOYOLA UNIVERSITY’S
INSTITUTE OF ENVIRONMENTAL
SUSTAINABILITY
The new Institute of Environmental Sustainability at Loyola's Lake Shore Campus combines academics and research with sustainable
agriculture and community living, all in one
amazing facility. Guided by the Institute’s
founding Director, CG regular faculty member Nancy Tuchman, assisted by Jim Kenney,
we’ll explore the Institute and learn about the
six major focal areas of the program: transport,
energy, food, waste, water, and biodiversity.
The bus will depart the CG Center
promptly at 10:00 am. We will return to the
Center by 3:00 pm. A catered lunch buffet
will be provided (included in the fee).
SATURDAY, OCTOBER 29
10:00 AM-2:00 PM $25
CARL JEROME
THIRD
THURSDAYS
THE THEME FOR THIS SERIES
IS MUSIC AND LIFE
These special programs, featuring presentations on the arts and humanities will be held
on the third Thursdays of September, October,
and November, from 1:00-2:30 pm. $39 for
the series or $15 per session. All programs are
held at the Deerfield Center.
THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 15
1:00 – 2:30 PM $15
JOHN NYGRO
THE MUSIC OF COLONIAL
AMERICA — TRADITION
AND EXPLORATION
The music of the early United States is a rich,
multifaceted panoply of sacred and secular
music from the Old World, prayers of Native
Americans, slave songs, as well as music created in the New World. This presentation will
examine the music that makes up our American spirit of embracing differences.
IF YOU'RE NOT HEARING
VOICES IN YOUR HEAD...
YOU'RE NOT BEING MINDFUL
THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20
1:00 – 2:30 PM $15
JIM KENDROS
We know from 3000 years of monks in the
East watching their minds, as well as from
extensive current research, that mindfulness
requires an internal voice to monitor how we
process the people and events of our lives.
These voices, this self-talk – known as a metacognitive voice – acts as a tool to aid us in living happier, healthier, less-stressful lives. In
this presentation, we will learn the ancient
secret of how to self-regulate, through the use
of a meta-cognitive voice, shifting gears and
moving to a more comfortable place, a place of
ease. Bring a brown bag or plan to lunch on
your own in the area.
IN THE COMPOSER’S
MUSIC SALON
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 13
1:00-3:30 PM $20
JIM KENNEY
THE LATEST ARCHAEOLOGICAL
WONDERS OF THE WORLD
One of CG’s most popular programs is Jim’s
annual survey of ten or so of the past year’s
most spectacular, informative, and fascinating
discoveries. This year we have a number of
great finds to consider: identifying
Jamestown’s VIPs, encountering the earliest
stone tools, the first artists, hidden chambers
in Tut’s tomb, and a Bronze Age bride. We’ll
explore what may be the richest shipwreck of
all time. And we’ll meet our newest Human
relative, the surprising Homo naledi.
What is it like to be a composer? What is
involved in the creation of music? Composer
Jim Kendros will answer these questions and
more. He will share the creative process, from
beginning to end, in composing original
music, as well as explaining why the process
differs with different composers. He will perform some of his own works on a grand piano
– and – spontaneously compose a special piece
exclusively for Common Ground.
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 17
1:00 – 2:30 PM $15
JEROME O’CONNOR
SPIRITUAL PRACTICE
AT COMMON GROUND
MEDITATION
EVERY MONDAY, 7:00-8:30 PM
LAURA BERNSTEIN
Free-will offering goes to CG.
Eknath Easwaran was one of the 20th century's great meditation masters. Our ongoing
satsang (spiritual community) studies his profound, pluralistic teachings (known as the 8point program) and practices "passage meditation," a unique method of stilling the mind
and translating spiritual ideals into daily living. Contact Laura before attending: [email protected].
THE ENNEAGRAM
FRIDAYS
11:00 AM-1:00 PM
ROSEMARY HURWITZ
Free-will offering goes to Rosemary and CG.
(Sessions will begin in mid-September;
check with the office if you have questions.
Call Rosemary for more information: 847334-2558.)
What is the Enneagram? The term is derived
from the Greek and refers to the “ninepointed” star-like figure within a circle which
represents 9 universal personality types. Left
to us by seekers and mystical thinkers well
over two thousand years ago, it has within it,
a powerful compass which leads us to our
essence, and can help us know and anchor our
purpose. In this ongoing course, you will gain
an in-depth understanding of your own type
and of the profound “wellness map” that lies
within.
ARIAS AND OPERA HOUSES
Opera is Western civilization’s ultimate art
form, and essential to any city with a cultural
tradition. Adding to the experience of grand
opera are the buildings themselves, including
architecture, appointments, and crucially, the
acoustics. View legendary opera houses in Florence, Milan, Venice, Paris, London and
Chicago’s two opera houses, the Auditorium
and Civic Opera House. Highlighted will be
the presenter’s June 2016 visit to St. Petersburg, Russia’s $700 million new Marinsky
Theatre – with onyx walls, blond wood interior and pale blue seats – the ten-year project
that was the first since the czarist era.
CG HIATUS
JULY 29-SEPTEMBER 13
Common Ground will be on hiatus from Friday, July 29, through Tuesday, September 13.
Classes will resume then. We look forward to
seeing you again in the fall. As you’ll see from
this Bulletin, we have a great set of offerings in
store. And don’t forget to check the CG website
regularly. It’s www.cg.org.
Fall 2016 • 7
COMMON GROUND
815 ROSEMARY TERRACE
(MAIL P.O. BOX 1435)
DEERFIELD, IL 60015
LET US KNOW IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO BE REMOVED
FROM OUR MAILING LIST. CALL 847-940-7870.
TEL. (847) 940-7870
FAX (847) 940-7872
WWW.CG.ORG
[email protected]
FALL 2016
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Common Ground
Religion, spirituality, philosophy,
and culture in the 21st century
Our 41st YEAR!
Recycled Paper • Soy Ink
The silence of the forest is my bride and the sweet dark
warmth of the whole world is my love. Thomas Merton