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Roots & Resistance
The Underground Seminary Reading Circle
COURSE DESCRIPTION
How do we hold space for both deep contemplation and bold action in a world that needs both? To answer that question, we need to turn to trustworthy guides who have been walking that road for generations. We need to sit at their feet with our beginners mind and see afresh the call to live a life that is grounded in prayer and called into action.
Roots & Resistance is a guided journey through the essential reading list for an underground seminary—bringing together voices of faith activists from all across the tradition to explore the wisdom, courage, and creativity at the heart of our Christianity.
Each week, we gather online for prayer, teaching, and conversation, moving through a curriculum that integrates mysticism, theology, social action, and spiritual resilience. You’ll join a community committed to exploring what it means to be Christ’s transformative presence in the world—rooted in the ancient wells of Scripture and inspired by modern voices of justice and healing.
Who Should Join?
Seekers, activists, and spiritual leaders longing to connect contemplation with action
Anyone drawn to Christian mysticism, social justice, and creative spiritual practice
Those ready to read deeply, reflect honestly, and build resilient community
Join us for a season of deep reading, honest conversation, and transformative practice.
The service has ended—the work begins!
Sundays 3PM - 4PM (ET)
May 3rd
May 10th
May 17th (no class)
May 24th (pre-recorded class)
May 31st
June 7th (no class)
June 14th
After signing up for paid Membership, make sure to register for your unique Zoom URL on the course page (button to access below).
Starts Sunday, May 3rd, 2026
Membership Community
COURSE INSTRUCTOR
The Rev. Dr. Hillary Raining
Hillary currently serves as the Rector of St. Columba's Episcopal Church in Washington, D.C. She’s an accomplished scholar and teacher, and is passionate about helping people deepen their connection to God through traditional and innovative means. She is the founder of The Hive, an online community focused on spirituality and wellness and holds a Master of Divinity from Yale University and the Yale Institute of Sacred Music, and a Doctor of Ministry from Drew University. Her academic work explores topics including leadership, reconciliation, preaching, trauma, and Indigenous theology—including meaningful research with her own tribe, the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa Native Americans, on ritual and intersectionality. As a pastor, Hillary is known for her warmth, deep listening, and creative spirit. She is also a spiritual director, yoga and meditation instructor, forest therapist, and beekeeper, and brings a holistic approach to ministry grounded in love, joy, and justice.
To learn more about Hillary, visit her personal website here.
