Pastor’s Corner – July 20, 2023
Dear Beloved,
What are you excited about or hopeful about as a new school year and a new year of Lifelong Spiritual Formation opportunities begin? Everyone is the right age for Lifelong Spiritual Formation! We hope you’ll prayerfully consider one of the options below or other options that are coming up for learning and growing together as followers of Jesus who connect with and love God and all God’s people, creatures, and creation.
In addition to our Bible Study groups and book groups, we are starting some guided meditation groups this school year in connection with our focus on mental health and the offerings of the Metamorphosis Mindfulness Community. We have experienced meditation practices, other spiritual disciplines/practices and prayer to support us in our desire to love God and each other – body, mind, and spirit. The practices also help many of us feel healthier and more whole. We believe that God cares about our mental health. While mental health often seems to be spoken about more freely in some settings than it was previously, we want to continue to create an open environment for people to share and feel welcome to reach out to others for connection. We hope everyone feels included and welcome to be themselves. We are grateful for the ever-faithful all-merciful Creator who calls everyone beloved!
Below are some options for you to consider. All are welcome. Please invite people to come with you. Please let me know if you would like more information about any of them. Start dates will be coming soon if not included below. Information about book groups and Bible studies will be coming soon as well. Thank you to everyone who is leading, facilitating, and supporting behind the scenes and to everyone who participates. Thank you to the Lifelong Spiritual Formation Ministry Team who supports these opportunities.
Sunday Morning Meditation, 9:50-10:20am - Introduction to meditation for mental health, wellbeing, and spiritual reflection. Ten to fifteen minute meditation practice ranging from silent to guided meditation followed by brief, guided discussion of meditation techniques and mindfulness skills. Open to all, regardless of meditation experience. These are led by Dr. Sunny Romack.
Listening and Living Circles - All ages are welcome to come in-person or virtually from 7 to 8 p.m. for a guided meditation and time of group and/or individual reflection on our experience of listening to and exploring a Bible story together. This offering is provided by the Metamorphosis Mindfulness Community. We will have three main sessions on Sept. 13th, 20th, and 27th and then a closing session on Oct. 4th for anyone who would like.
With gratitude, joy, and hope,
Sarah
As a deer longs for flowing streams, so my soul longs for you, O God. Psalm 42:1
