Here’s some upcoming Seattle stuff that you local yokels might be interested in.

First off, Brian McClaren, author of A New Kind of Christian and other books on postmodern faith will be speaking at Seattle First Baptist Church, Monday June 12 at 7pm. This event is free and is sponsored by the fabulous independent bookseller, Elliot Bay Bookstore. For more info, click here.

On the heals of the First Baptist event, there’s a chance to chat with Brian at Off the Map’s fundraising event Tuesday, June 13th from 9:30-11:30am at Vineyard Community Church. This event cost $20 at the door and includes coffee, pastries, and conversation. Click here for location information.

Also coming up is the second taping of Kindling’s, a new radio show/podcast focusing on spiritual conversations for Seattlites. This month’s topic is The Feminine Divine and the session features a moderated panel discussion followed by audience questions and discussion. Last month’s show was standing room only, but I’ve got some tickets for the Feminine Divine show, Monday June 19th. Email me at urbanabbess at monkfish dash abbey dot org if you’re interested. It’s at Hale’s Ales in Ballard and has a $5 cover.

Last and most theatrical is the Solstice Parade and Pageant coming up Saturday,June 17th at 12noon. This year Eden, Cate, Rebecca, Rosie and I will be celebrating life in the midst of disaster with the Katrina Ensemble. Look for giant stilt-walking skeletons in brightly decorate hats and well be there carrying giant flowers. Most of the giant puppets from the parade will also be in the pageant at 4pm at Gasworks Park. These unique events are created entirely by community volunteers with no corporate sponsors. Don’t miss this boisterous celebrations of the return of the sun. Check out the Fremont Arts Council page for info.