Award winning poet and social activist Brenda Matthews will deliver her message of personal faith during spiritual life week, Oct. 4-7, 2011 on the campus of Eastern Mennonite University (EMU).
Affectionately known as “Mama” Brenda, Matthews has traveled throughout the United States and Africa spreading her message of “kingdom building and world changing.”
“I am passionate about life and I am determined to make difference in this world,” said Matthews.
Schedule of events
Matthews will speak in chapel services and classes, share original works of poetry and song and facilitate dialogue in a coffeehouse event.
Matthews opens spiritual life week 8 p.m., Tuesday, Oct. 4, in University Commons room 211-12, reflecting on her personal faith and life story.
She will speak on the theme, “Get Out of the Boat,” inspired from Matthew 14:25-32, 10 a.m., Wednesday, Oct. 5, in Lehman Auditorium and 8 p.m. in Martin Chapel the same day, speak in seminary chapel 11 a.m., Thursday, Oct. 6 in Martin Chapel and again 10 a.m., Friday, Oct. 7 in Lehman Auditorium.
There will be time for fellowship with Matthews following university chapel 10:40-11:30 a.m., Wednesday and Friday in the Campus Center Greeting Hall. Refreshments will be provided.
Additional event, more information
Matthews will host a “poetry café” 8-9:30 p.m., Thursday in the Common Grounds Coffeehouse, featuring several pieces of original poetry, songs and inspiration. In addition, EMU students, faculty and staff are encouraged to bring their work to share.
“I expect Brenda Matthews to bring energetic and focused teaching on understanding how and to what God calls all of us as well as guidance for discerning our personal calling,” said Brian Martin Burkholder, campus pastor at EMU. “This is a theme that touches everyone – students, faculty, staff and community members.”
For more information, visit the spiritual life week webpage or call campus ministries at 540-432-4115.