A 14 session study to explore the Cherokee faith tradition in a series of twelve monthly sessions, held on Thursdays, starting on May 23rd, 2024 and running through June 12th, 2025.
Current Session Schedule: Exploring 7 Dimensions of the Cherokee Faith Tradition
The Practical and Ritual Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu May 23 (2024)
This session explores the emotional tapestry woven by Cherokee communal worship and rituals. We’ll delve into how participation fosters awe for the Great Spirit, the peace found in harmony with nature, and the joy of shared purpose. We’ll discuss how these practices cultivate emotional well-being and forge a deep connection to the Cherokee community, past, present, and future.
Thu Jun 06 (2024)
This session explores the Cherokee faith through personal experiences. We’ll discuss how core beliefs in the Great Spirit, interconnectedness, and balance impact daily emotions and life purpose. We’ll analyze how rituals, nature connection, and honoring ancestors contribute to a sense of belonging and spiritual fulfillment.
The Mythic and Narrative Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu Jul 25 (2024)
This session delves into Cherokee creation myths exploring the Great Spirit’s role and humanity’s connection to the natural world. We’ll analyze the symbolism within these stories, unpacking their meaning about the universe’s origin, human purpose, and the nature of the divine in the Cherokee worldview.
Thu Aug 08 (2024)
This session explores the dynamism of Cherokee religious stories. We’ll delve into how personal experiences and perspectives influence individual interpretations of these narratives. We’ll discuss how these stories are woven into daily life, offering guidance and meaning unique to each listener.
The Doctrinal and Philosophical Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu Sep 19 (2024)
We’ll discuss the philosophical concepts that guide Cherokee life, such as balance, harmony, and respect for ancestors. Through these discussions, we hope to gain a deeper understanding of the values that shape the Cherokee worldview.
Thu Oct 03 (2024)
This session will prompt participants to reflect on core Cherokee beliefs like the Great Spirit and interconnectedness. We’ll explore how individuals weave these doctrines and philosophies into their daily lives, shaping their personal connection to the world and their place within it.
The Ethical and Legal Dimension of Cherokee
Thu Nov 14 (2024)
This session will dissect the Cherokee ethical code, exploring how respect for the Great Spirit, balance, and ancestors translates into everyday actions. We’ll delve into the concept of Hiw osi Sdi (natural law) and its influence on social behavior, examining how religious principles guided decision-making in Cherokee communities.
Thu Dec 05 (2024)
This session will delve into Cherokee ethical principles (Unetlanvhi, Hiw osi Sdi) and how they guide daily choices. We’ll analyze real-life scenarios, exploring how individuals weigh personal desires against the interconnectedness of all things and respect for ancestors to navigate complex moral situations.
The Social and Institutional Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu Jan 16 (2025)
This session will explore the structure of Cherokee religious communities, leadership roles like medicine people, and the deep social connections fostered by shared faith. We’ll examine how these religious institutions have historically served and continue to serve as cornerstones of Cherokee society.
Thu Feb 06 (2025)
This session will delve into the Cherokee faith community as a cornerstone of personal life. We’ll explore how individuals find strength, connection, and meaning through shared beliefs, ceremonies, and ancestral respect within the religious social structure.
The Ritual and Practical Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu Mar 20 (2025)
This session will explore the Cherokee faith tradition’s core rituals and practices, unpacking their symbolic meanings and practical applications. We’ll delve into how daily rituals, connection to nature, and storytelling reinforce core beliefs and promote balance and harmony in life.
Thu Apr 10 (2025)
This session will explore how Cherokees weave rituals like morning water ceremonies and storytelling into daily life. We will consider personal experiences and discuss how these practices strengthen connections to the spirit world, ancestors, and the natural world, fostering a deeper understanding of the Cherokee faith journey.
The Material and Artistic Dimension of the Cherokee
Thu May 22 (2025)
This session will explore the Cherokee faith tradition’s material expressions. We’ll analyze the significance of sacred sites, art forms, and objects used in worship and religious practice. We’ll discuss how this material culture conveys meaning, fosters connection with the divine, and reflects core beliefs about the interconnectedness of all things.
Thu Jun 12 (2025)
This session will delve into how Cherokee individuals connect with sacred sites, art, and objects in their personal lives. We’ll explore how these elements foster devotion, shape personal practices, and serve as expressions of faith within the Cherokee tradition.