"Psychological Mysticism: Healing Religious and Political Tribalism" by Jerry D. Wright, D.Min., Jungian Analyst

Drawing on the Analytical Psychology of C. G. Jung and on various mystical traditions, Dr. Wright will propose a “psychological mysticism” that preceded, and now replaces, the historical theological mysticism that has been dependent on theistic god-images. Such dualistic, divisive images are no longer relevant for many people – nor necessary.

The presentation will explore an alternative spiritual path that has the character of a grounded, embodied mysticism that honors the universal experiences of the numinous. Psychological Mysticism could be a relevant and meaningful path for persons of all religious orientations, as well as for those who embrace no particular religion, or who identify as an atheist.

Such a perspective could contribute to the healing of the deep divisions that tear at our cultural, political, and religious fabric, and that threaten our species and sacred, global nest.

The Friday presentation and Saturday workshop will include presentations by Dr. Wright, ample time for dialogue, periods of guided silence/meditation, and psychological reflections on contemporary issues and events.

We are born mystics

Emerging from the pregnant

Numinous darkness

Into the light of day

Assigned to be and become a light

Of consciousness and compassion

Our primary vocation

The rent for being alive

On this sacred soil.

(Selection from A Mystical Path Less Traveled, Jerry R. Wright)

About Jerry R. Wright, D.Min

Dr. Wright is a Jungian Psychoanalyst, lecturer, and writer who lives in Flat Rock, NC.  He is a training analyst with the Inter Regional Society of Jungian Analysts.  An experienced conference and retreat leader, he has led pilgrimages to sacred sites in Iona, Scotland, Ireland, Peru, India, SE Asia, and Africa.

He is the author of A Mystical Path Less Traveled: A Jungian Psychological Perspective (Chiron, 2021),  and Reimagining God and Religion: Essays for the Psychologically Minded (Chiron, 2018).

His primary professional passion includes the application of the insights of Jungian psychology to all human endeavors, including religion and spirituality, politics, and the care of the Earth.

Jerry is a graduate of Erskine College (B.A.), University of Georgia (M.Ed.), Erskine Theological Seminary (M.Div.), and Columbia Theological Seminary (D.Min.).

Not only has Jerry previously worked as a high school teacher (psychology) and guidance counselor, he has also directed YMCA camps and programs and served as a family counselor in an alcohol and drug rehabilitation center.

His family includes his wife, Kay (d. April, 2020), three children, and three grandchildren. Jerry's primary hobbies include hiking the beautiful trails in western North Carolina, traveling, gardening, and playing with his canine companion Muffin.

Visit his website at https://www.jerryrwright.com/to learn more.