By Hannah McCollum
Saturday, Sept. 23, author and Episcopal priest Paul Gordon-Chandler will give a presentation on the influential poet Kahlil Gibran at 7 p.m. at West Central Episcopal Mission in Spokane.
Gibran was a Lebanese-American poet, artist and mystic in the early twentieth century. His most well-known work, “The Prophet,” was published in 1923 and has been translated into more than 50 languages. The book is made up of prose-poems that speak to all areas of life, delivered by a wise-man character called Al Mustapha.
Gibran’s unique spirituality was influenced by the religions of both the Middle East and the West. Chandler’s new book, “In Search of a Prophet: A Spiritual Journey with Kahlil Gibran,” is a biography of Gibran’s spiritual journey. In it, Chandler shows how Gibran’s words can be a much-needed guiding spirit in today’s world, “at a time when stereotypes and misunderstandings are increasing the ever-widening divide between the creeds and cultures of the Middle East and West.”
Chandler’s presentation, based on his book, focuses on how Gibran’s spiritual journey relates to today’s critical issues. Some of these issues are: caring for the environment, gender equality, bridging the gab between the Middle East and the West, embracing different faiths and an interest in spirituality rather than religion.
The talk will be followed by a book signing and a contemplative service featuring some of Gibran’s writings and art, candlelight and meditative music.
The event is from 7 to 9 p.m. on Sept. 23; doors will open at 6:45 p.m. and seating is limited. West Central Episcopal Mission is located at 1832 W. Dean Ave, Spokane. To contact the mission, call 509-624-3191. St. John’s Cathedral is sponsoring the presentation, and Chandler will also be speaking on Sunday, Sept. 23 at the Cathedral. He will lead a forum at 9:15 a.m., preach at the 10:30 a.m. service and sign books following the service.
To learn more about Paul Gordon-Chandler, his books and his work in international peacebuilding, visit his website.
