Wednesday Contemplative Service
We live in a world of wall-to-wall noise and many people's lives are filled with stress and little time to simply breathe and "be." This Contemplative Liturgy provides an opportunity to gather with others for a time of spiritual refreshment and renewal.
Though many Christians have been taught that prayer involves active speaking to God, current spirituality is reminding us of the importance of listening and taking a passive stance of openness in the midst of the divine presence. Most religions have some form of meditation or contemplative prayer, in which there is a focus on breathing, being still, and dwelling in the present moment. As Westerners, we often find it very difficult to quiet our minds, yet the result of such a practice can be deeply rewarding for our bodies, minds, and souls.
This liturgy will have several periods of silence. During this time, allow yourself to simply dwell in the present moment. You may choose to concentrate on your breath, or to use a sacred word, sometimes called a "mantra." When your mind wanders, you may choose to simply return to the breath or the sacred word. The discipline of contemplative prayer takes time and practice, so there is no need to feel bad if your mind wanders or you don't seem to be "getting anything out of it." There is no goal; that is the point--to learn how to dwell in the present moment and to be mindful of all the gifts of life in your breath, in each other, and in the world.
Service Schedule
First Wednesday of the month - htVespers - this quiet service includes musical "hits" from Holden Evening Prayer mixed with some hints of Holy Trinity and our current red worship book.
Second Wednesday of the month - Brief Eucharist before the Second Wednesday Faith Formation events which begin at 7:30 p.m. Come for one or both.
Third Wednesday of the month - Contemplative Eucharist with Service of Healing
Last Wednesday of the month - Contemplative Eucharist in the style of Taize, an ecumenical community in France. Using simple, short and repeated melodies we let go of our minds and prayerfully enter the mystery of God's presence.
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