Robertson Spirituality Series

Spirituality for the ‘Nones’

The number of religiously unaffiliated Americans – often called “the nones” – make up a significant portion of the U.S. population, between 20-30%, and that percentage is growing. These are not people who are necessarily atheists, or simply morally indifferent, or unconcerned with spirituality. In fact, a recent study showed that as many as 72% of the nones believe in God, or a higher power, or a spiritual force. They often yearn and search for the transcendent and seek matters of ultimate concern, just like those in organized religion. At times they describe themselves as “spiritual but not religious.” Unfortunately, there seems to be very little spiritual nourishment offered specifically to feed them, nourishment that is thoughtful, credible, meaningful, and tailored to include them as well as spiritual seekers comfortable within an organized religion.

It is the goal of the Robertson Spirituality Series to provide provocative and nourishing presentations to seekers from all backgrounds. We hope to provide speakers who come from all faiths and no faith, who will address spirituality’s intersection with:

• environmental justice, eco-spirituality, and racial concerns
• the rich tradition of mystical and contemplative devotion throughout world history
• “thin places”
• concerns of health, beauty, harmony, and mortality.

The series will enrich spirituality in a variety of ways, including, but not limited to, lectures, seminars, retreats, book groups, discussions, and trips to sacred places.

Sponsoring organizations

With roots that go back to 1834, Hartford International (HIU) is a pioneering, interreligious, international university. It is home to the Center for Transformative Spirituality. The Center for Transformative Spirituality partners with the Spiritual Life Center, which provides spiritual support for those who seek a deeper spiritual life and welcomes people from any spiritual or religious tradition, or no religious affiliation. The Spiritual Life Center offers programs of spiritual companionship and discernment and co-sponsors events with HIU throughout the year. For more information about HIU, please visit hartfordinternational.edu For more information about the Spiritual Life Center, please visit spiritlifectr.org

Inquiries

Please contact Mike Corey, Robertson Spirituality Series Coordinator, at mcorey@hartfordinternational.edu

UPCOMING EVENTS

Thursday, Dec. 12, 2024 - 7 p.m.
Author and New York Times Columnist Ross Douthat 
REGISTER

Mondays, Feb. 10 and 17, 2025 - 7 p.m.
Theologian and author Ilia Delio
More details to come!

Tuesday, April 29, 2025 - 7 p.m.
Author and New York Times Columnist David Brooks
More details to come!

PAST EVENTS

Thursday, Sept. 19, 7 p.m.
Heart and Humor: A Conversation with Tom Shadyac

April 18, 2024 
The Three Amigos on 'Friendship and Transcendence

Oct. 6, 2023
Finding Refuge: Earth Love and Climate Grief
Wisdom House Retreat and Conference Center