Speaker: The Rev. Dr. Mark Y. A. Davies

Rev. Dr. Mark Y. A. Davies is the Wimberly Professor of Social and Ecological Ethics, Director of the World House Institute for Social and Ecological Responsibility, and Executive Director of the Leadership. Education, and Development Hub North America for the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry) at Oklahoma City University where he has worked in both teaching and administration for 22 years. He is an ordained elder in the Oklahoma Conference of the United Methodist Church where he has served as Chair of the Board of Church and Society from 2015 to 2018.

In 2017, the General Board of Church and Society of the United Methodist Church selected Dr. Davies to serve as the convener of the writing team tasked with revising “The Natural World” section of the Social Principles of the United Methodist Church. This is the first time the Social Principles have undergone a thorough revision since their adoption by the denomination in 1972.

Mark engages in advocacy and activism in the areas of peace, social justice, and ecological sustainability. Locally this is expressed through his work with the Human Community Network, which works to create non-violent systemic change for a just and flourishing human and ecological community through collaboration, education, innovation, and action. See www.humancommunitynetwork.org.

He and his wife Kristin live in Edmond, OK in the United States, and they have two teenage daughters.

Science and Religion

If religion is understood as that which pertains to our ultimate concern there is no reason for religion and science to be in conflict. Tragically, religion often clings to antiscientific perspectives that impede human progress, making it difficult to address social and ecological challenges , and hindering overall human flourishing, but it does not have … Continue reading Science and Religion

Interdependence

As we celebrate our declaration of freedom from a king, it is also helpful to reflect on what our freedom is for. True freedom entails using our freedom for each other, seeing ourselves as in this together, living into our interdependence with one another, and cultivating a culture of empathy.

Collaboration

When it comes to the most important things in life and as we face the most urgent challenges of our time, we cannot go it alone. Community and collaboration are key to our personal and social well-being.

Human Rights

We hear a lot of talk about the rights granted by the United States Constitution, but even more fundamental than our constitutionally guaranteed rights are our universal human rights that are shared by every person on earth and ought to be respected by all persons whether one is a citizen of the United States or … Continue reading Human Rights

The University and Human Flourishing.

The protection of academic freedom and the free pursuit of truth and knowledge are critical to fostering excellence in our colleges and universities, and the critical and creative thinking cultivated in higher education are key contributors to a vibrant participatory democracy. Download the Morning Program here later in the week or open it below without … Continue reading The University and Human Flourishing.

“I Dissent”

April 6 – “I Dissent” – The ability to express ourselves freely in ways that do no harm to others and to peacefully assemble in protest of injustices are critical to the well-being and flourishing of the human community. Download the Morning Program here later in the week. About Mark: Mark Davies is the Wimberly … Continue reading “I Dissent”

Solidarity

Solidarity The Rev. Dr. Mark Y.A. Davies, leading Download the morning program here later in the week. Reflections on how we can express solidarity with the most vulnerable persons and communities in the most pro-active and effective ways. About Mark: Mark Davies is the Wimberly Professor of Social and Ecological Ethics and Director of the … Continue reading Solidarity

Love at the Center

Love at the Center The Rev. Dr. Mark Y.A. Davies, leading Download the Morning Program here or read it below without having to download it. Reflection on how love holds together and permeates all of the shared values of Unitarian Universalism and compassion.  We covenant to use our time, wisdom, attention, and money to build and … Continue reading Love at the Center