Spiritual Practices

One of the joys of being part of this church community is that we recognize that we are all on a spiritual journey and can encourage one another as we strive to live as faithful Christians. Adopting spiritual practices helps us to do this.

In Mudhouse Sabbath, author, Lauren F. Winner says: "All Religions have spiritual practices. Buddhists burn sage and meditate. Muslims avail themselves of their prayer rugs. Christian tradition has developed a wealth of practices, too: fasting, almsgiving, vigil-keeping, confessing, meditation... In churches and homes everywhere, people are increasingly interested in doing Christianity, not just speaking or believing it."

Together with our pastor, we seek these opportunities to develop our faith life. Our practices include:

Worship — We join together regularly for communal worship to sing, pray, and hear the Word proclaimed. We also celebrate the sacraments of Communion and Baptism and honor one another's joys and concerns.

Prayer — There are many different ways of praying and we seek to create opportunities for exploring these ways of communing with the divine both together and when alone.

Reading — Through the study of the Bible and texts of our tradition we explore the Christian life. We engage in Bible Study, Book Groups, and Lectio Divina (deep reading of sacred texts).

Labyrinth — Walking our labyrinth provides an opportunity for meditation and reflection. We hold regular services or call ahead and walk privately.

Hospitality — We engage in a practice of welcoming all, sharing ourselves and our faith. We love to eat together and regularly enjoy potluck lunches or dinners. Coffee hour after services is a great place to meet new people.

Outreach — The Christian faith calls us to do more than welcome those who come to us and so we seek to extend our welcome by sharing our faith and our blessings with others.