A New Gospel for a New Year: Exploring an ancient source of wisdom and change

Mike Clark has an affinity for The Gospel of Thomas that is contagious. He is a retired pastor living in Northampton MA. For the last 17 years (2002-2019) of his active ministry, he spent much of his time learning from those who were battling addiction and seeking transformed lives. His first book, Loitering with Intent, published in 2021, describes these years. For the last dozen years, actively engaging with Thomas -- teaching classes, utilizing it in counseling and spiritual direction, and leading many retreats for individuals from a wide variety of backgrounds, Mike has come to believe that a heart connection with this gospel can change the way we view ourselves, our relationship to our Higher Power and indeed our understanding of Jesus.

Sandra LaPerche is retired from a career in health care. She has been a volunteer with the American Red Cross and Girl Scouts and currently is a tutor and conversation group leader for English at Large. She has taught tai chi at Melrose and Stoneham Senior Centers, has served as a Stephen Minister, and has led small groups, book studies, Bible Studies, and prayer groups for twenty plus years. A Gateways to God grad (the missional spiritual direction program at Rolling Ridge), Sandra has a life-long drive to seek Divine grace through personal study, prayer, and practice.