The Myth of Redemptive Violence
Tuesday, October 28 – Friday, October 31
:: Led by Br. James Michael Dowd and Captain Ronald Steed, USN (ret)
You are invited to explore with us the myth of redemptive violence, paritcularly through the lens of Walter Wink, and the spiritual practice of non-violence, particularly through the lens of Benedictine spirituality. Through shared presentations, dialogue, prayer and meditation we will deconstruct the roots of the myth of redemptive violence within ourselves, our national mythology, and our Scriptural tradition. This retreat will contain both theoretical and practical approaches to non-violence.
Brother James Michael is an experienced retreat leader and spiritual director as well as the Guest Master and Sub Prior of Holy Cross Monatery. He has worked for many years in the areas of social justice and non-violence.
Captain Ronald Steed, USN (ret) transitioned from the Navy’s Nuclear Submarine Force in 2007. His last assignment was as the Commodore of Submarine Squadron Two in Groton, Connecticut. At sea, he was assigned to four fast attack nuclear submarines including NARWHAL (SSN 671), PITTSBURGH (SSN 720), and SEAWOLF (SSN 21). He commanded USS JEFFERSON CITY (SSN 759). After command, he was an Instructor for the Submarine Command Course. Today he is a Principal at UpScope Consulting Group, LLC where he conducts research and development involving command decision-making, team dynamics, and human factors. Additionally, he serves as the Senior Warden of St. James Episcopal Church in New London, CT, as President of the Homeless Hospitality Center of New London, and as an Associate of The Order of the Holy Cross.
Now in discernment for the Deaconate in the Diocese of Connecticut, Ron has been studying the works of Walter Wink regarding the Myth of Redemptive Violence and the nature of the Domination System. He brings an interesting metanoia perspective on the nature of these systems in world today as one thoroughly immersed in them, particularly at the national security level.
Ron and his wife Roxanne live in Mystic, CT.
Cost: $250, deposit: $80