Would you like to host a summer gathering or series of gatherings in your home or at the church in June, July or Aug. – a potluck, picnic, hiking, singalongs, some activity you enjoy and that you’d like to share with others? These gatherings are flexible in format (could be in-person or via Zoom). Typical offerings range from two to six sessions, and often work best if the day and time is consistent. It’s been delightful to gather together during this year’s Capital Campaign (launch parties, the Gala, etc.), and we’d like to keep the connecting momentum going. Email Louise Halsey ([email protected]) with any wonderings you have or if you have an offering in mind.
Several sessions are now forming (see preliminary descriptions below) and we’ll update you as more opportunities arise. Contact the hosts directly for questions and/or to sign up.
Aging as a Spiritual Practice, led by Susan Webb ([email protected])
Six Thursdays, June 15 – July 20, 10:30 – 11:15 am, Hall of Entrance
Aging is beyond our control, but how we age is up to us. Using Aging as a Spiritual Practice by Lewis Richmond as a jumping off point, we will explore guidance for continuing to growing in compassion and wisdom. 4 to 8 participants preferred.
Journey Into Music, led by Betty Spamer ([email protected])
Four 1-hour sessions in August, Loper Chapel
Explore your inner world of creativeness and wisdom through music. Listening to music can evoke imagery (in a direct, holistic way) that offers insight into our essential and spiritual selves. It can lead us to that which concerns us ultimately. Each one-hour session begins with a focus (created from an overall theme), and follows with music listening and drawing a mandala. (Artistic ability not required.) There will be opportunities to share your interpretation and insights from your experience, as you wish. For questions about the format of Journey Into Music or more about music imagery, feel free to contact Betty via email. Space is limited to 6 to 8 participants.
Exploring Compassionate Communication, led by Jim Coates ([email protected]) & Louise Halsey ([email protected])
Thurs. evenings, 7 to 8:30 pm, June 15, 22, 29 & July 6, Durant House
Join us as we explore the nonviolent communication teachings of Dr. Marshall B. Rosenberg, PhD, as outlined in his book Nonviolent Communication: a Language of Life. “NVC is founded on language and communication skills that strengthen our ability to remain human, even under trying circumstances,” explains Rosenberg. This group will begin to practice these skills with the intention of creating more connection – to ourselves, to others and to the world. We’ll explore some key assumptions of NVC: “all actions are attempts to meet needs” and “everyone’s needs matter.” If you are new to these teachings, we encourage you to join all the sessions as they build upon each other.