Dear colleagues and everyone who is interested in anthroposophy and the sections of the Independent School of Spiritual Science:
A century after the founding of the Independent School for Spiritual Science a new step in its realization is called for. This latent call for a renewed spiritual deepening is evident in the widespread dynamics of polarization, disorientation, meaninglessness and social tensions that intensify to senseless war and violence.
Today there are twelve sections, each active around the world and dedicated to a profession or discipline. They inspire research, projects and educational programs through innovative collaborations and exchange. Over Whitsun in 2025, which marks the 100th year since Rudolf Steiners death, we will take a fresh look at his inspirations for the sections and professional fields on the backdrop of contemporary challenges and dilemmas. How can we develop the work in the sections in alignment with Michael, the spirit of our age? How can our efforts prove fruitful in these challenging times and how are the accomplishments of the sections and professional fields working back into the very substance of anthroposophy? Can we penetrate the specific and individual methods of the various disciplines of our epistemic community and reach a higher understanding of reality? The image of the Whitsun community of disciples can serve as a proper symbol for our conference. Even though they spoke different languages, the common task that hovered before them led to a mutual understanding. One hundred years after the death of Rudolf Steiner we will seek for an analogous future oriented understanding of the independent school of the sections.
The core questions we will work on together are:
What are the central inspirations Rudolf Steiner articulated for each section?
What method, knowledge practices and understanding does each section contribute to the school?
What is the contribution that each section offers the future of civilization?
This conference is intended for everyone who is interested in anthroposophy and the sections of the Independent School of Spiritual Science. The conference will include opportunities to participate in professional working groups dedicated to research and development questions of the various fields and disciplines.
With excitement in anticipation of the encounters and exchanges to come,
For the Goetheanum Leadership
Marion Debus, Christiane Haid, Karin Michael, Matthias Rang, Nathaniel Williams
