WESTHOPE EVENTS

UPCOMING EVENTS

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Apr
10

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar

ARE YOU…

  • Spiritual but not religious?

  • Religious but not quite finding what you are looking for?

  • Frustrated, but not quite sure where to look for answers?

  • Feeling stuck, and not quite sure how to get unstuck?

  • Coming to a crossroads in life, and struggling to decide which path to take?

  • Seeking a community without religious dogma and without the pressure to conform at the expense of your individual autonomy?

  • Looking to connect with your deeper sense of meaning and purpose?


JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION

MEET OTHERS WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH DISCUSSION AND INTERACTION.

WITH A LITTLE LUCK AND INTENTION,
MAYBE EVEN GET A LITTLE CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR PURPOSE.

SPIRITUAL STEW
Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Meets Twice Monthly 7 to 9PM
Fall Schedule:
 9/19, 10/3, 10/17, 11/7, 11/21, 12/5


WHO WE ARE:
A BUDDING COMMUNITY OF SEEKERS

  • We are looking for community, connection, and wisdom in an era defined by distraction and separation.

  • We are open to the possibility deep truths exist, but instinctively resist the shallow spirituality typically offered by religious institutions.

  • We don’t like being told what to believe or how to behave, and commit to not imposing our beliefs and expectations on others.

  • Our preference would be to identify tools that help us find the answers we seek for ourselves, but do so in a community of fellow seekers.

  • Our group is explicitly irreligious, though we welcome the religious and irreligious alike.

  • All are welcome who support and honor our commitment
    not to impose beliefs on others.



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Justice Cafe
Apr
16

Justice Cafe

Co-hosted by Rev. Erik Swanson and Beth Wylie
First and Third Wednesday Afternoons 3PM

Our current areas of focus are supporting our immigrant neighbors, confronting Christian nationalism and Human Rights for Palestine. If you are passionate about another issue, come to Justice Cafe – we would love to hear about it.

As People of Hope we strive to walk beside those most impacted by injustice…the immigrant and refugee, our LGBTQIA+ siblings, people of color, the unhoused, the creatures of the Earth…to name just a few.

On first and third Wednesday afternoons we come together to support each other. Together we are better able to face the suffering of the world and to work for justice and love. Share what you are care about, what you are doing, what is or isn’t working. Learn about opportunities to get involved…as a community we can make a difference.

Upcoming Film Screenings & Discussions at Westhope

April 10 Oscar Award Winning Documentary No Other Land

May 18 Vote Common Good Presents We the People Ride for Immigration & Border Practices

Free Webinars

April 2 Amanda Tyler on “How To End Christian Nationalism” 4pm PST From the McLendon Scholars Series

April 3 Roadmap to Ruin: How the Church Can Resist the Dismantling of Democracy 4pm PST From Jemar Tisby, PhD

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Maundy Thursday
Apr
17

Maundy Thursday

Gather with us to cross the threshold into Easter. We light the new fire at sunset on this last day of the Lenten season. We gather for foot washing as a reminder that love is enacted by serving one another.

Whether you join us in person or on line, may you find a way to experience the embodiment of giving and receiving. Together we remember the commandment (Mandatum) that Jesus gave his disciples…to love.

May we be blessed as we gather to enter the Triduum experience together. 

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Good Friday: Tenebrae
Apr
18

Good Friday: Tenebrae

Can I take this weight from my shoulders Lord and leave it here at the foot of the cross?

We move further towards the resurrection as we face into our shadows in this tenebrae service of candlelight and darkness.

We light the second fire and give over what is ready to be let go.

We rejoice. We remember. We release.

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Holy Saturday
Apr
19

Holy Saturday

Ambiguity. Mystery. The unknown.

The third night and Easter Sunday begin with the lighting of the vigil fire.

Waiting, watching, we remember God’s presence and power through time.

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Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Apr
24

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar

ARE YOU…

  • Spiritual but not religious?

  • Religious but not quite finding what you are looking for?

  • Frustrated, but not quite sure where to look for answers?

  • Feeling stuck, and not quite sure how to get unstuck?

  • Coming to a crossroads in life, and struggling to decide which path to take?

  • Seeking a community without religious dogma and without the pressure to conform at the expense of your individual autonomy?

  • Looking to connect with your deeper sense of meaning and purpose?


JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION

MEET OTHERS WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH DISCUSSION AND INTERACTION.

WITH A LITTLE LUCK AND INTENTION,
MAYBE EVEN GET A LITTLE CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR PURPOSE.

SPIRITUAL STEW
Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Meets Twice Monthly 7 to 9PM
Fall Schedule:
 9/19, 10/3, 10/17, 11/7, 11/21, 12/5


WHO WE ARE:
A BUDDING COMMUNITY OF SEEKERS

  • We are looking for community, connection, and wisdom in an era defined by distraction and separation.

  • We are open to the possibility deep truths exist, but instinctively resist the shallow spirituality typically offered by religious institutions.

  • We don’t like being told what to believe or how to behave, and commit to not imposing our beliefs and expectations on others.

  • Our preference would be to identify tools that help us find the answers we seek for ourselves, but do so in a community of fellow seekers.

  • Our group is explicitly irreligious, though we welcome the religious and irreligious alike.

  • All are welcome who support and honor our commitment
    not to impose beliefs on others.



View Event →
Grateful Gatherings
Apr
27

Grateful Gatherings

Join others to explore the transformative possibilities of grateful living, and discover greater meaning, purpose, and joy in your life. Grateful Gatherings take place every month both online and in homes and communities around the globe. 

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Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg
May
7

Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg

PLEASE NOTE: On March 5, we will be discussing chapters 1-7

Explore John Lewis, A Life, a comprehensive and compelling biography of civil rights leader John Lewis, celebrated as “the conscience of Congress,” through a narrative that weaves together exclusive interviews, never-before-seen FBI files, and documents, offering profound insights into his significant role in American history and the civil rights movement.

We hope you will consider joining us for this relevant conversation even if you don't have a chance to read the book. Please note: our book choices are also available in audio format.

1st Wednesday of the Month • Online

 
 
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Grateful Gatherings
May
25

Grateful Gatherings

Join others to explore the transformative possibilities of grateful living, and discover greater meaning, purpose, and joy in your life. Grateful Gatherings take place every month both online and in homes and communities around the globe. 

View Event →
Grateful Gatherings
Jun
22

Grateful Gatherings

Join others to explore the transformative possibilities of grateful living, and discover greater meaning, purpose, and joy in your life. Grateful Gatherings take place every month both online and in homes and communities around the globe. 

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Spring Spruce 2025
Apr
5

Spring Spruce 2025

Grab a hammer, grab a broom, grab a cup of coffee and join in the fun for the return of the Westhope Spring Spruce!

Our Spring and Fall work days have become a community favorite. There is something for everyone – gardening, painting, cleanup, fixing, trimming, oiling, changing bulbs – we need your talents.

Coming in March: Project List

Will there be tasty snacks? Yes.
Do I need any special skills to help out? Nope.
What if I want to use tools and fix things? Okeydoke.
Can I do this contemplatively? Uh…we think you can, this is Westhope after all!
Can I socialize while I’m sprucing up the place? Definitely!

Easy jobs for all helpers. Wear work clothes. Bring gloves if you have them. Everyone welcome!

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Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Apr
3

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar

ARE YOU…

  • Spiritual but not religious?

  • Religious but not quite finding what you are looking for?

  • Frustrated, but not quite sure where to look for answers?

  • Feeling stuck, and not quite sure how to get unstuck?

  • Coming to a crossroads in life, and struggling to decide which path to take?

  • Seeking a community without religious dogma and without the pressure to conform at the expense of your individual autonomy?

  • Looking to connect with your deeper sense of meaning and purpose?


JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION

MEET OTHERS WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH DISCUSSION AND INTERACTION.

WITH A LITTLE LUCK AND INTENTION,
MAYBE EVEN GET A LITTLE CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR PURPOSE.

SPIRITUAL STEW
Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Meets Twice Monthly 7 to 9PM
Fall Schedule:
 9/19, 10/3, 10/17, 11/7, 11/21, 12/5


WHO WE ARE:
A BUDDING COMMUNITY OF SEEKERS

  • We are looking for community, connection, and wisdom in an era defined by distraction and separation.

  • We are open to the possibility deep truths exist, but instinctively resist the shallow spirituality typically offered by religious institutions.

  • We don’t like being told what to believe or how to behave, and commit to not imposing our beliefs and expectations on others.

  • Our preference would be to identify tools that help us find the answers we seek for ourselves, but do so in a community of fellow seekers.

  • Our group is explicitly irreligious, though we welcome the religious and irreligious alike.

  • All are welcome who support and honor our commitment
    not to impose beliefs on others.



View Event →
Justice Cafe
Apr
2

Justice Cafe

Co-hosted by Rev. Erik Swanson and Beth Wylie
First and Third Wednesday Afternoons 3PM

Our current areas of focus are supporting our immigrant neighbors, confronting Christian nationalism and Human Rights for Palestine. If you are passionate about another issue, come to Justice Cafe – we would love to hear about it.

As People of Hope we strive to walk beside those most impacted by injustice…the immigrant and refugee, our LGBTQIA+ siblings, people of color, the unhoused, the creatures of the Earth…to name just a few.

On first and third Wednesday afternoons we come together to support each other. Together we are better able to face the suffering of the world and to work for justice and love. Share what you are care about, what you are doing, what is or isn’t working. Learn about opportunities to get involved…as a community we can make a difference.

Upcoming Film Screenings & Discussions at Westhope

April 10 Oscar Award Winning Documentary No Other Land

May 18 Vote Common Good Presents We the People Ride for Immigration & Border Practices

Free Webinars

April 2 Amanda Tyler on “How To End Christian Nationalism” 4pm PST From the McLendon Scholars Series

April 3 Roadmap to Ruin: How the Church Can Resist the Dismantling of Democracy 4pm PST From Jemar Tisby, PhD

View Event →
Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg
Apr
2

Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg

PLEASE NOTE: On March 5, we will be discussing chapters 1-7

Explore John Lewis, A Life, a comprehensive and compelling biography of civil rights leader John Lewis, celebrated as “the conscience of Congress,” through a narrative that weaves together exclusive interviews, never-before-seen FBI files, and documents, offering profound insights into his significant role in American history and the civil rights movement.

We hope you will consider joining us for this relevant conversation even if you don't have a chance to read the book. Please note: our book choices are also available in audio format.

This session will cover chapters 17 (ACTION) up to Chapter 22 (Ambitions), pages 325-439.

1st Wednesday of the Month • Online

 
 
View Event →
Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Mar
27

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar

ARE YOU…

  • Spiritual but not religious?

  • Religious but not quite finding what you are looking for?

  • Frustrated, but not quite sure where to look for answers?

  • Feeling stuck, and not quite sure how to get unstuck?

  • Coming to a crossroads in life, and struggling to decide which path to take?

  • Seeking a community without religious dogma and without the pressure to conform at the expense of your individual autonomy?

  • Looking to connect with your deeper sense of meaning and purpose?


JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION

MEET OTHERS WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH DISCUSSION AND INTERACTION.

WITH A LITTLE LUCK AND INTENTION,
MAYBE EVEN GET A LITTLE CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR PURPOSE.

SPIRITUAL STEW
Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Meets Twice Monthly 7 to 9PM
Fall Schedule:
 9/19, 10/3, 10/17, 11/7, 11/21, 12/5


WHO WE ARE:
A BUDDING COMMUNITY OF SEEKERS

  • We are looking for community, connection, and wisdom in an era defined by distraction and separation.

  • We are open to the possibility deep truths exist, but instinctively resist the shallow spirituality typically offered by religious institutions.

  • We don’t like being told what to believe or how to behave, and commit to not imposing our beliefs and expectations on others.

  • Our preference would be to identify tools that help us find the answers we seek for ourselves, but do so in a community of fellow seekers.

  • Our group is explicitly irreligious, though we welcome the religious and irreligious alike.

  • All are welcome who support and honor our commitment
    not to impose beliefs on others.



View Event →
Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Mar
13

Spiritual Stew: Community Event Hosted by Eric Dittmar

ARE YOU…

  • Spiritual but not religious?

  • Religious but not quite finding what you are looking for?

  • Frustrated, but not quite sure where to look for answers?

  • Feeling stuck, and not quite sure how to get unstuck?

  • Coming to a crossroads in life, and struggling to decide which path to take?

  • Seeking a community without religious dogma and without the pressure to conform at the expense of your individual autonomy?

  • Looking to connect with your deeper sense of meaning and purpose?


JOIN US FOR A NIGHT OF CONVERSATION AND EXPLORATION

MEET OTHERS WITH MORE QUESTIONS THAN ANSWERS.

LEARN MORE ABOUT YOURSELF THROUGH DISCUSSION AND INTERACTION.

WITH A LITTLE LUCK AND INTENTION,
MAYBE EVEN GET A LITTLE CLEARER UNDERSTANDING OF YOUR PURPOSE.

SPIRITUAL STEW
Hosted by Eric Dittmar
Meets Twice Monthly 7 to 9PM
Fall Schedule:
 9/19, 10/3, 10/17, 11/7, 11/21, 12/5


WHO WE ARE:
A BUDDING COMMUNITY OF SEEKERS

  • We are looking for community, connection, and wisdom in an era defined by distraction and separation.

  • We are open to the possibility deep truths exist, but instinctively resist the shallow spirituality typically offered by religious institutions.

  • We don’t like being told what to believe or how to behave, and commit to not imposing our beliefs and expectations on others.

  • Our preference would be to identify tools that help us find the answers we seek for ourselves, but do so in a community of fellow seekers.

  • Our group is explicitly irreligious, though we welcome the religious and irreligious alike.

  • All are welcome who support and honor our commitment
    not to impose beliefs on others.



View Event →
Ash Wednesday Ritual & Service
Mar
5

Ash Wednesday Ritual & Service

6pm Soup Supper
7pm Ritual service with the imposition of ashes.

This evening will be an in person gathering. We will begin the evening with a shared soup dinner in the Social Hall. Come for dinner or just the service...just come! New people are always welcome.

Ash Wednesday is the beginning of the Lenten Season. We put ashes on our foreheads to remember the transience and preciousness of life. 

Tonight we practice burning away and releasing that which gets in our way, so that we can find the connection with the holy ever more deeply. This service of ritual invites us to awaken once more to the presence of the holy in our midst, and how we are called into partnership and connection with God.

We hope that you will consider joining us as we enter this wilderness time, stepping together over the threshold into the holy season on Lent. 

View Event →
Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg
Mar
5

Book Club: John Lewis - A Life by David Greenberg

PLEASE NOTE: On March 5, we will be discussing chapters 1-7

Explore a comprehensive and compelling biography of civil rights leader John Lewis, celebrated as “the conscience of Congress,” through a narrative that weaves together exclusive interviews, never-before-seen FBI files, and documents, offering profound insights into his significant role in American history and the civil rights movement.

We hope you will consider joining us for this relevant conversation even if you don't have a chance to read the book. Please note: our book choices are also available in audio format.

1st Wednesday of the Month • Online

 
 
View Event →
The Palestinian Exception
Feb
27

The Palestinian Exception

The story of the largest anti-war movement since the 1970s as students, faculty, and staff on US campuses demand divestment from companies doing business with Israel and an end to the war on Gaza.

 
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