In this time of fracture and stress, we look at Mary, mother of Jesus – one of the most universally healing figures worldwide. For people of various beliefs, Mary represents many things, including the compassionate side of the Sacred Feminine. While Christians and Muslims see her differently, both faith traditions revere her. Hindus view her in yet another way, but many turn to her for solace and help. Join us online for a fascinating glimpse of Mary through different spiritual lenses – as a symbol of compassion, faithfulness, and more.

Speakers

Sophia Pandya, PhD
Muslim
Dr. Pandya is a professor and chair of the Department of Religious Studies at California State University, Long Beach. Winner of CSULB’s 2016 Advancement of Women Award from the President’s Commission on the Status of Women, she received her BA from UC Berkeley in Near Eastern Studies/Arabic, and her MA and PhD from UC Santa Barbara in Religious Studies. A Fulbright Scholar, she specializes in women and Islam, and more broadly in contemporary movements within Islam. Read more

Ray Mattes, IHM, DMin, LPCC
Christian – Catholic
Dr. Mattes is a pastoral theologian, professional gerontologist and licensed psychotherapist. He speaks locally and nationally on lifelong spiritual formation and later life development. Dr. Mattes has served in long-term care administration and as a spiritual director, retreat leader, consultant, coach and facilitator to individuals, not-for-profit organizations, religious communities and churches. Read more

Rini Ghosh, PhD 
Hindu – Vedanta
Born and educated in India, Dr. Ghosh has lived in California for over 35 years, running her own business. From a young age, she has been a peace activist and steadfast follower of Swami Vivekananda and Mahatma Gandhi. A passionate advocate of interfaith cooperation, Dr. Ghosh has promoted peace, nonviolence and interfaith activities around the world. She serves on the boards of The Guibord Center and the Vedanta Society of Southern California; as President of Vedanta International Cultural Center (VICC); and as Director and Parliamentarian of the United Nations Association, Pacific-Los Angeles Chapter. Read more