Teaching Faculty

Suzanne Crawford O’Brien

Suzanne Crawford O’Brien is Professor of Religion and Culture at Pacific Lutheran University, where she teaches at the intersection of religious studies, Native American studies, and environmental studies. Her publications include Religion and Culture in Native America (Rowman and Littlefield, 2020) and Coming Full Circle: Spirituality and Wellness Among Native Communities in the Pacific Northwest (University of Nebraska, 2014). In her current work, she brings Indigenous traditions and comparative religions into conversation with the psychology of climate grief, providing guidance for transforming eco-distress into purposeful action.

SESSION DESCRIPTION

This workshop introduces participants to four different contemplative traditions, considering sacred stories, teachings, and practices for closer engagement with the natural world. In an era of climate crisis, learning to listen to and learn from the wider family of creation is both good for the soul and essential for our survival. We’ll consider teachings from Zen Buddhism, African American womanist theology, Native American spirituality, and Jewish mysticism.

SESSION DATES
  • July 21 - July 24
    TOPICS
    • Climate Justice
    • Ethics
    • Indigenous Studies
    • Spirituality

      Education

      Holden Village is a community where your questions are valued and encouraged. Most programs led by visiting teaching faculty occur during the summer months. However, Holden also invites faculty to teach sessions for special events and retreats throughout the rest of the year.
      Check out a list of the 2024 Summer Faculty.