One of the functions of organized religion is that it creates a sense of community. But what about the people  who believe in the basic tenets of their religion, but don’t feel like they fit in with the group? They end up feeling even more Other. What about people who have beliefs that don’t feel like they fit in with any organized group? They also lack community on a faith-based level. What about people who aren’t part of a major religion, who don’t know many people who share their belief system? Or Atheists who feel that ritual is important?  Or people who don’t have strong definitions for their beliefs, but have a strong sense of the Sacred? They lack a sense of belonging as well.

I see threads that transcend all of the Otherness. Sometimes they are beliefs, sometimes they are questions, sometimes they are values.

I am also a fan of short, informative talks like the TED or NerdNight presentations. Apparently many people are.

Some friends and I got together and decided to create an event that creates a sense of community for people whose beliefs don’t give them as strong of a community as it might, an event that stimulates the intellect and the curiosity as much as it feeds the spirit. 

And then we added ice cream. Because ice cream.

Every third Sunday of the month, from 3-5pm, we’ll be gathering in Glendale. There will be a short speaker, under the general heading of Woo or spirituality, following the guidelines of (1) is it interesting, (2) is it accessible, and (3) is it useful. People are encouraged, but not required, to discuss the presentation afterwards. Maybe while eating ice cream. 

And we added a raffle, because winning, and presents.

This past Sunday was our first gathering. The presentation was about avoiding drama on the internet, and maybe using the internet to create a new paradigm of equality. 

In the upcoming months, there will be presentations on using bird energy,haunted houses, Pronoia, Solstice, and maybe even quantum physics. And, you know, ice cream and prizes.

Won’t you join us?

The Black Arts Ice Cream Social meets on the third Sunday of the month at The Complex in Glendale from 3-5pm. We ask for a $10 donation to help cover costs, and that gets you your first raffle ticket.

We’re always looking for donations of raffle prizes and ice cream, as well as volunteers to help out. Drop us a note!