Humanism as a Lifestance

Tuesday, September 15, 2026
1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Pioneer Bank, 1450 Adams St., Mankato

Three Part Series: Naturalism, Ethics without Religion, and Meaning & Mattering

Weekly on Tuesdays, September 8th, September 15th, and September 22nd.

Cost: This is a three-session series, though participants are welcome to register for one, two, or all three sessions. The full 3-part series is free for Gold members and $14 for Silver members. Silver members may also attend individual sessions for $7 each. Non-members pay $15 per session or $45 for the full series.

Session One (7.1): Naturalism — a Starting Point for Humanists

We begin this series on Humanism by looking at the naturalist worldview which lays the foundation for modern-day humanism. We will review the scientific explanations and philosophical developments over the course of centuries that changed the focus of our attention from the supernatural to the natural world. We will also consider non-western influences on the contemporary naturalist world-view as well as our ever-deepening understanding of humankind’s place in the cosmos.

Session Two (7.2): Ethics without Religion

In this session we will focus on the ethical imperative of humanism and disentangle ethics from religion. We will explore the evolutionary origins of moral instincts and the philosophical moral theories that have influenced the humanist outlook — across the globe. In addition, a contemporary secular process for ethical deliberation will be put forward. Come explore the heart of humanism.

Session Three (7.3): Humanist Perspective on Meaning and Purpose

We are the products of an un-designed, evolutionary process. What meaning or purpose can there be to our lives? Do our lives really matter? How can intentional community engender meaning and mattering? How do we create meaningful community? In the final session of this series, we will look at how a Humanist lifestance — with its naturalist worldview, ethical commitments, and community spirit – informs and contributes to our experience of meaning and purpose.

Presenter:

Audrey Kingstrom - was born and raised a devout Lutheran in rural Minnesota, then immersed in evangelicalism in college, Audrey made her way to New York City in her mid-twenties to go to Union Theological Seminary (non-denominational and liberal). She graduated with a Master of Divinity but by the end she was a closeted atheist. Hence, Audrey re-directed her life to the field of education—in publishing and high school teaching. After 16 years on the East coast, she returned to Minnesota and discovered congregational humanism at the First Unitarian Society of Minneapolis where she and her husband have been members for over twenty years – and raised their two sons. During that time, she also became acquainted with HumanistsMN and served on their Board for 8 years – 5 of them as president. Audrey is also a humanist celebrant and continues to be very active in Humanists MN volunteering as their program coordinator and frequent presenter.

Sponsor: 

Steve Gilbert