Sacred is a term that both intrigues and repels. Many believe the word is appropriate for only ancient religions, and tend to avoid its use. But, are there sacred things, ideas, and goals? Michael Bogdanffy-Kriegh will talk about the concept of sacred and its usefulness, or lack thereof, to humanity in general, and more specifically, within the context of the Ethical Humanist religion.

Many people today know Walt Whitman only as a poet. However, his works speak of a greater philosophical vision applicable today. Throughout his literary career Whitman believed in the evolution of everything in the universe toward a wider and deeper connection. He saw our world as a journey, where each individual holds an equal measure of truth, and where all grow by interaction. His concept of a democratic society of self-reliant individuals within an interconnected community mirrored his vision of strong men and women existing in a robust democratic union. What might Whitman advise us now, in a world linked by social networking sites, cell phones, internet chatrooms, bulletin boards, and email -- yet filled with isolated, desperate people? Before we reach out to others, Whitman might argue, we first need to reach inside ourselves.