Religion Briefs
Star-Bulletin staff &
Associated Press
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Speakers to explore people's ties to God
Four people with differing visions of how individual lives connect with the divine, or God, will describe their views at an "Intro- ductory Workshop on Process Theology" next Saturday.
"Love's Labors Found" will be the theme of the 10 a.m. presentation at the Lutheran Church of Honolulu, 1730 Punahou St.
The speakers will be the Rev. Fritz Fritschel, a retired Lutheran minister; the Rev. Teruo Kawata of the United Church of Christ; the Rev. Jonipher Kwong, minister of the Ohana Metropolitan Community Church; and Jade Young, a graduate of the Pacific School of Religion in Berkeley, Calif.
"Process theology is an organic understanding of the divine ... a view that sees all of creation as interdependent, interconnected and interrelated," Kwong said. "It has a unique perspective on love in that it does not objectify the other and is more holistic. Where traditional Christian theology divides love as the spiritual versus the physical, process relational theology doesn't have an either-or perspective in life."
Kwong said this school of thought combines Eastern and Western theology. "It lends itself to diversity, to religious and spiritual diversity."
The symposium is free and open to the public.
Fundraiser sets mood for Valentine's Day
Love will be the theme of poetry readings and music at a Feb. 12 fundraising party to support the Spiritual Life Center.
Hawaii-born author Kathleen Norris will read from her 2001 book "Journey: New and Selected Poems" at the event from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at La Pietra-Hawaii School for Girls, 2933 Poni Moi Road.
Music to set the mood for Valentine's Day will be performed by singer John Bryan and flutist Wallen Ellingson. Works by island artists, jewelry and copies of Norris' books will be sold.
Wine, fruit, bread, cheese and Valentine desserts will be served.
Tickets at $35 per person or $60 for two can be reserved by calling 732-4052.