Speaking Peace

Several times a year we offer a speaker series in which we hear from people working The Peace within our community and explore ways that we can live out our call to love God and our neighbors, acting on our values of Compassion, Mercy, Justice, Forgiveness and Grace.

We begin with a light meal at 6:00 pm, and follow with a presentation and Q&A. This free event is open to all and offers a valuable opportunity to engage, learn, and reflect on strengthening communities. Child care can be provided on request. Click here to register in advance.

Past and Future Events:

WATCH FOR FUTURE EVENTS!

October 9, 2025 - Sonja Brannon

"Immunosuppression: You, Me, and We"

A near death experience changed everything for mother of four, Sonja Brannon, when she suffered a massive ischemic stroke weeks after having a mild case of COVID-19 in July of 2020. Come and hear Sonja’s story as she shares her experience with autoimmune disease, falling deathly ill, her journey back to health, releasing her anger and forgiving the person who exposed her to the COVID virus in the first place.

We begin with a light meal at 6:00 pm. JubileeDetroit, which combines a mission to train recent immigrants on food safety and food service practices and a mission to serve tasty food from many cultures at locations and events in metro Detroit, will be bringing a taste of Venezuela to the event. We’ll hear a very short ‘temple talk’ about the truck and its mission, then visit the truck for food, before Sonja's presentation. Donations are always welcome (the cost of bringing JubileeDetroit to St. John has been covered); look for a jar in the cafe area as we enjoy dinner. Beverages and dessert will be provided by members of St. John. Please click here to register.

May 29, 2025 - Coleman Yoakum

Director, Micah 6 Community in Pontiac

Coleman Yoakum tells the story of how, as a college student, God called him to serve the needy. This call eventually led him to Pontiac, Michigan, where he and friend bought a derelict house in a poor neighborhood and proceeded to serve their neighbors in whatever way they needed. Now, 20 years later, they are still there and have just opened a Community Center in an old school building. Micah 6 become a treasured and important resource for the whole community.

January 21, 2025 - CJ Clark

Assistant to the Bishop and Director for Evangelical Mission, SEMI Synod

CJ discusses volunteerism and the importance of having passion in our service to others.

November 7, 2024 - Lisa Murrel

Executive Director, Community Living Centers

"Empowering Adults with Disabilities to Achieve Their Dreams."

Lisa discusses the importance of giving people with disabilities a real home and opportunities to be part of their communities, which is our mission in our support of St. John House.