The MSU Foglio Speaker Series on Spirituality’s Third Annual Lecture on Spirituality & Justice will feature Dr. Mark Umbreit.

The heart of spirituality, peacemaking and justice, particularly as expressed in the global restorative justice movement, is anchored in human relationship, respect, humility, and authentic communication. As these efforts have grown over the past decades, many believe too much emphasis has been on communication, persuasion and organizing techniques. While these techniques are important to learn, they can also become a significant obstacle to true dialogue and social justice if practiced too rigidly, if our ego is too active in the belief that we know best what makes for an effective dialogue, plan, and a successful outcome. Taming our egos is perhaps the biggest challenge of authentic and deep spirituality, peacemaking, and justice. It requires a mindfulness-based approach that is grounded in open hearted, moment by moment, non-judgmental awareness of ourselves and those we are with, particularly those who have beliefs and cultural contexts very different than our own. By working with breath and silence, taming our egos and deep listening is a gift of awakening for both the practitioner and the recipient. In sharing this gift, Mark will draw upon many stories from his work in numerous states and countries.

Co-Sponsored By: The Foglio Endowed Chair of Spirituality, Center for Integrative Studies in the Arts and Humanities (IAH), College of Arts & Letters, Department of Religious Studies, Peace and Justice Studies.