Category Archives: Conversations with Leaders

Interviews with notable figures in religion, spirituality, and the interfaith and interspiritual movements, by Lauren Zinn at ZinnHouse.

ANN ARBOR’S REQUIEM FOR ORLANDO

Conversations with Leaders, For Religious Educators, Interspiritual, , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Performers arriving at Hill Auditorium to honor those injured and killed in Orlando with a performance that reaches interspiritual heights. In the wake of tragedy, we look for meaning and find ourselves drawn to experience the wisdom of our higher self.

But how do we reach the higher self?

In Ann Arbor, one University of Michigan Graduate student, Austin Stewart, spontaneously organized a community performance of Mozart’s Requiem on Tuesday evening, June 14th. In less than 48 hours, he brought together musicians and performers of all backgrounds to honor those wounded and killed at the Pulse nightclub in Orlando, Florida. Sponsored by The University of Michigan School of Music, Theatre, and Dance, the public was welcome. Continue reading ANN ARBOR’S REQUIEM FOR ORLANDO →

Zinnterview with Interspiritual Author Mirabai Starr

Conversations with Leaders, Evolutionary Spirituality, For Religious Educators, Interspiritual, , , , , ,

A giant red heart pulsates in this mixed media painting by Lauren Zinn.It’s a joy to introduce you to Mirabai Starr on MLK Day. Although petite, you can’t miss Mirabai. She’s an embodiment of interspirituality earned through a life of devotion at the heart of the great religions. From across the room where I first met her, she radiated love. I’m sure you’ll feel the warmth of her words from any distance.  Zinntroducing —MIRABAI STARR…
 Continue reading Zinnterview with Interspiritual Author Mirabai Starr →

Marianne Williamson was Right about African-American Women

Conversations with Leaders, Interfaith Inspiration, Jewish-Interfaith, , ,

I never forgot what Marianne Williamson said 15 years ago. During a Palm Sunday Service at Unity Church in Detroit, she remarked that a spiritual revival would arise with African-American women. At first, I thought of Oprah. But then I looked around me in my own small circle and I see what she meant. Continue reading Marianne Williamson was Right about African-American Women →

“Minefields & Miracles” Reviewed

Books on Faith and Spirituality, Conversations with Leaders, Interfaith Inspiration, ,

“You don’t really know someone until you’ve walked a mile in their shoes.”

MMFnlcoversmallTo read Minefields and Miracles: Why God and Allah Need to Talk by Ruth Broyde Sharone is to walk in the shoes of a serious and accomplished interfaith activist. Readers will see the difference that one person can and is making in this world. I happen to know Ruth and I can tell you that conversations with her are as inspiring as her memoir, if not more. Continue reading “Minefields & Miracles” Reviewed →

Responsible Religion for Getting Unstuck

Conversations with Leaders, Curriculum Design, For Religious Educators, Interfaith Education, Interfaith Inspiration, Jewish-Interfaith, Spiritual Growth for Kids, , , , ,

Mixed media painting by Lauren Zinn.Pastor Joe Summers’ hard work and dedication organizing “UnStuck: Reviving the Movement for Social Justice, Human Dignity, and the Environment” at The Michigan Theater on February 16, 2013 was a huge success. With Rev. James Forbes and Cornel West as the keynotes, along with musical performances, and wide support, the program delivered a whole greater than the sum of its parts. I was honored to be among several speakers about religion’s sticking points in unleashing social change. I’m sharing my talk here.
“Stick” with this; it’s  not that long.

I’ve been energized these days about my profession as an Interfaith Minister and my practice (vocation) as an Interfaith Educator.  So when Joe asked me to be part of this event, I agreed.  Because I thought I had a lot to say. But when I sat down to write, I felt “stuck.”  Now I’m going to tell you what I’ve learned about getting “unstuck.”

I grew up in a Conservative Jewish household.  I went to Hebrew School every Monday, Wednesday, and Sunday. My family attended Sabbath Services which meant I was at the synagogue on Saturdays, too. When I joined the Jewish Youth Group, I was there five times each week. I went to Jewish camps in the summer. I lived on a religious kibbutz in Israel briefly in high school. I attended the Hebrew University in Jerusalem for my junior year of college. I thought I would join the Israeli army, marry an Israeli, and live life on a kibbutz.  Would you be surprised if I told you that it didn’t work out that way?

What happened?

Continue reading Responsible Religion for Getting Unstuck →