The Spiritual Journey of Rev. Nafisa Sharriff: A Pathway to Healing
Rev. Nafisa Sharriff’s spiritual quest began in the most ordinary of places: a Catholic mass, where she first learned about the power of faith. However, it was a life-altering tragedy—the death of her mother—that propelled her into a more profound journey of spiritual exploration and healing. In 1987, her sister introduced her to a workshop led by a renowned channeler in Arizona. Despite her initial skepticism, Sharriff felt compelled to attend. “You always give up on yourself,” an inner voice echoed in her mind, urging her to stay and explore. This moment marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to spirituality and holistic healing.
Founding Entering the Holy of Holies (ETHOH)
In 2004, Sharriff established her nonprofit organization, Entering the Holy of Holies (ETHOH), with a mission to guide individuals in processing and expressing their emotions through spiritual and holistic wellness practices. "You’re going to dive deep into your heart, become clear about how you feel, and then have that emotional clarity or release to make some decisions about changing your life," Sharriff explains, encapsulating the transformative power of her work.
This year marks the 20th anniversary of ETHOH, and to celebrate, the organization is hosting a three-day conference from October 25-27. The event promises a rich tapestry of activities, including African and funk dance classes, interactive holistic panels, and a vibrant vendor fair.
A Tribute to Service and Community
The conference will kick off with a special tribute to Assemblywoman Inez E. Dickens at the Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture. Dickens, who recognized ETHOH in a letter of commendation back in 2014, is being honored for her five decades of service. "This is a wonderful moment not just to honor her, but also for us to do a rite of passage through African music and song to continue the journey for herself,” Sharriff reflects.
In addition to honoring Dickens, the first day of the conference will showcase a short documentary and photo gallery illustrating two decades of ETHOH’s impact, setting the stage for an inspiring celebration of community and healing.
Dance as Healing: Connecting Through Movement
On the second day, participants can look forward to dance classes led by celebrated figures from the African dance community, like Pat “the Funk Meister” Mabry, Maguette Camara, and Dr. Darian M. Parker. Sharriff will conclude the day with Sunnu classes, reinforcing the idea that movement can be a powerful medium for emotional expression and healing.
Dr. Maraesa, a Fordham professor and yoga instructor involved with ETHOH since 1996, remembers how Sharriff fostered a sense of community through her dance classes. “She encouraged us to break down the walls between human beings…and really created community,” Maraesa recalls, a testament to Sharriff’s ability to cultivate connections and shared experiences.
Adapting to Change: Evolution of ETHOH
Over its 20 years, ETHOH has evolved significantly—from Sharriff’s living room gatherings to a rented space, and then to online workshops during the COVID-19 pandemic. “Our programs went from a handful of people because now people are home, too,” Sharriff explains, highlighting the organization’s adaptability and relevance in a changing world.
The journey towards mental health awareness remains crucial for communities of color. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, in 2021, roughly 39% of Black individuals facing mental health challenges received treatment, a stark contrast to 52% of their non-Hispanic white counterparts. Sharriff emphasizes the importance of anchoring into one’s spirit: “The more we develop this relationship with God within ourselves, the more we honor it,” she indicates.
A Community Reunited
Dionne Monsanto, a mental health advocate and conference speaker, anticipates a sense of reunion at the event. “I’m really excited to see people that I have not seen in years, to dance with people and other teachers I have not danced with in years,” she expresses, underscoring the community-centric ethos of ETHOH.
Dance professor Darian Parker urges participation in the conference by underscoring the significance of Sharriff’s work. “She’s all about uplifting and supporting people. It is really important work that Nafisa is doing in the world,” he affirms.
Conclusion and Invitation
Rev. Nafisa Sharriff’s journey embodies a profound narrative of resilience and healing, rooted in spirituality and community. As ETHOH celebrates two decades of impactful work, the upcoming conference offers a unique opportunity for individuals to connect, heal, and grow together.
For tickets and more information about the event, visit Entering the Holy of Holies’ website. Join this transformative journey and discover the power of community, movement, and spirituality in fostering mental and emotional wellness.
