Events

In this virtual event, professional magician James Warren will share personal insights and inspirations from the supernatural novels of Charles Williams, the Inkling C. S. Lewis most admired but whom we sadly overlook. Sign up here!

Therapist, author, and nonviolence researcher Dr. Gena St. David will discuss the role of art in the practice of nonviolence. This event will be livestreamed from First Congregational Church of Wilmette, 1125 Wilmette Ave., Wilmette, IL.

For decades, we've known that nonviolence is an effective approach to political resistance, spiritual health, and enjoyable living. Nonviolence has the power to save entire ecosystems from collapse, relieve animal suffering, and resolve human conflict. But what does it look like in practice?

Drawing on the faith communities and creative traditions that have long anchored nonviolent movements, Dr. Gena St. David explores what the arts make possible when we bring our whole selves to the work of peace. The hopeful news: we can help each other become a little more nonviolent, one creative practice at a time. Through stories, illustrations, and humor, St. David shines a flashlight on the path to help us get there.

We tend to pedestal nonviolent leaders – as if they were superhuman. Now, thanks to research, we know that all of us can do it. And our everyday lives will be more enjoyable because of it. Come learn from diverse practitioners around the globe who are practicing nonviolence through the arts – theater, music, poetry, imagery, and design!

Cookies, tea, and a book signing with the author will follow the talk.

Join us for this timely community event and bring a friend!

Gena St. David, PhD., educator and recipient of the ASERVIC Research Award for distinguished scholarship, supports communities to apply practices of nonviolence to protect the planet, reduce animal suffering, and enhance human wellness. As a mental health therapist with over a decade of experience as a theological educator, St. David distills the neuroscience of nonviolence into practical steps for spiritual growth and everyday life. Her latest book, The Nonviolent Brain: Unlocking Our Potential to Save the Planet, Animals, and Ourselves, introduces stories of creative nonviolence from across the globe. Discover which area of nonviolence excites you most at genastdavid.com.

• 9/23/2026: Changed for Good Study Guide Live Training (Recording coming soon!)