We live in a society that has suffered too long underneath the notion that we are in this by ourselves, that we need to compete with one another for resources and love, and that direct experience of the Holy in communities of mutual support is no longer relevant for contemporary society. I think that’s bunk, to be honest.
I’m convinced that the gas in our engine as a community of faith is a direct experience of the love of God in community with one another. We can use different language to describe it: “mountaintop,” “mystical,” “heart-opening” are all terms that come to mind, nor do we have to describe that mysterious Other we encounter with the language of colonizer religion. But those kinds of direct experiences of the Holy are critical to our understanding both our place in space and time, as well as the work for which this community has gathered.
But how do we do this? And how do we make this something that we can practice regularly?
Since June I have been meeting with a small group of individuals, exploring the questions of “how is it with your soul?” every other week. Each time I gather with this handful of people for this focused conversation, I notice my soul opening a little further. I experience ease and lightness. I feel free to be vulnerable and honest as I share the challenges and delights of this life.
The time has come for us to expand the circle of participation to others. If you are someone who is looking for deeper connection and belonging in the time of COVID, and you’re someone who is interested in just how much your life might change as a result of experiencing the Holy in community, this is for you. I believe this is one of the important avenues FCC can take into the future. I would love everyone in the congregation to participate in this joyful experiment!
How does it work?
Each Sacred Circle meets for approximately one hour every other week via video chat and phone. After some initial prayer and reflection, the group leader will support everyone in answering some soul questions.
The questions are the same every week: “When have I experienced closeness with God? When have I felt distant from God? What is capturing my imagination and exciting me right now? What do I need prayer and support for?”
In preparation to share your answers with the group, you’ll be paying close attention to the presence and seeming absence of the Holy through all parts of your life.
Then, in a safe, confidential environment, you’ll share those experiences, and others will listen to them, bearing witness to your process and praying for you as you encounter challenges and triumphs. The group leader may ask you questions to check in and help you connect the dots.
And, in turn, you’ll do that for the other participants in the group. Then, you’ll pray together and commit to holding each other in prayer through the coming two weeks.
What are the expectations?
Be willing to try: We ask that you attend six group sessions in their entirety before deciding whether or not you want to participate in this process for the long haul. After six weeks, you may continue to attend and participate, or you may withdraw if it’s not for you. No worries!
Be consistent: We ask that you not miss meetings. Your group leader will arrange a time for everyone to join a call via video call and phone call that works for everyone, so please let us know your availability.
Be honest: We ask that you show up and participate, with your questions fully thought-through each time, as best as you can.
Be a safe listener: We ask that you respect the boundary of confidentiality with respect to things shared in the group.
Pursue balance: The Sacred Circle meeting is just one aspect of a fully-rounded spiritual life, and is best paired with regular worship attendance, daily prayer and meditation, service, and generosity.
If you’re interested in participating in this holy experiment, call Pastor Nate at the office or complete this Google form: https://forms.gle/uUZbTjLf91GeSpEa6