Sacred Texts, Shared Thoughts: A Religious Exploration Discussion Group

Sunday June 28 & bi-weekly * 11am * $5-10 suggested * REGISTER
How do different traditions across history and geography think about how we should live our lives?
Join this community for a casual, biweekly discussion group dedicated to exploring the practical philosophies and lived wisdom of the world’s major spiritual traditions. Over the first 12 weeks, we’ll look at foundational ideas from Hinduism, Buddhism, Judaism, Taoism, Stoicism, Shinto, Yoruba, Animism, Christianity, Islam, and some modern faiths.
The full set of readings will comprise short, accessible excerpts of major texts. Because each of these traditions is vast and could inspire a lifelong study, our goal isn’t a dense deep dive. Instead, we want to look at the unique ways each tradition guides day-to-day living, ethical choices, and personal reflection.
This is less of a learning seminar and more of a conversational space. There are no right or wrong answers, and you don’t need any background in religious studies to participate. Come as you are, ready to chat about the ideas that jump out at you, what resonates with your own perspective, and how these philosophies might map onto our lives.
When: Biweekly starting Sunday, June 28, 2026, from 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM
Where: Upstairs at Rhizome DC (6950 Maple St NW, Washington, D.C. 20012)
Cost: Free to attend ($5–$10 suggested donation to support Rhizome's community space)
The initial syllabus is mapped out for 12 weeks with readings that are entirely free and available online, though a few weeks are still being finalized to ensure easy web access to readings. If interest sustains, we would love to keep the conversations going beyond the first 12 weeks!
Get Involved:
Check out the working syllabus and readings: tinyurl.com/explorefaiths
Join the community on Meetup: meetup.com/dc-religious-exploration-book-club/
Have questions, concerns, or reading suggestions? Reach out directly to crichardson1399@gmail.com