On September 8th guest teacher Mindy Caliquire discussed the foundational principles of SPIRITUAL FORMATION. What does the term spiritual formation mean? How does growth and change really take place in the life of a Christian? Is it really possible to change and become a more loving person? Does practicing spiritual disciplines make any difference?
November 3rd's topic was PRAYER and how we connect more fully and intimately with God through a regular and consistent rhythm of prayer practices. Prayer is a way of life, but consists in many forms. Our guest teacher, Kate Lovaglia, shared how prayer has taken form in her life and helped us learn some ways we can deepen our connection with God through communication with him.
On December 8th the topic was SIMPLICITY. Can we practice simplicity going into the holiday season? Perhaps it’s the most important time of year to be single-minded in how we live. We were led in our discovery and experience by teacher Mindy Caliguire.
January 5th and 6th — Our souls were longing for a time of rest so we went away for an overnight retreat to find a quiet space for teaching on spiritual practices, times of prayer, and support for your desire for God and growth.
February 9th's topic was LOVE. Sibyl Towner taught principles from the scriptures and her own life on becoming a more loving person. If loving your neighbor and loving God are the top priorities, based on what Jesus taught, then how can we actually become more loving—authentically loving? What spiritual disciplines can help us get at the root of what is on God’s heart…that we would love one another.
April 5th’s topic was on the principal “PRACTICING THE PRESENCE OF GOD.” We’ve heard of it but how is it done? Does it come naturally or is there a practical way I can grow in my ability to be close to God and think about God all day long? Franciscan Albert Haase shared principles on EXPERIENCING GOD AS CLOSER THAN THE AIR WE BREATHE. On May 10th our guest teacher Mindy Caliguire helped us look at how FASTING can increase our awareness of and intimacy with God. A spiritual discipline that is not a part of everyone’s routine, fasting can be a practice that benefits us and our relationship with God in surprising ways.
