Grounding Ourselves in Troubling Times

Dear Grace, 

In this historical moment of destabilizing change, a firm foundation is essential. Our faith matters.  Being grounded in our values and beliefs protects us from anxiety, postures us towards hope, and emboldens us with courage.  Being rooted in the presence and power of God's Spirit enables us to flourish, even when things are tough and distressing.

Part of my role is to encourage and support you in attending to your spiritual growth and development.  I believe it is key to your well-being and to the health of our community.  I know many of you are very thoughtful and intentional in stewarding your spiritual lives.   But if you are feeling like you need something more, take advantage of what we offer.  If you are not in the habit of joining us regularly on Sunday mornings, I urge you to consider doing so. Gathering with others to sing, pray and ponder sacred texts strengthens the soul.  

Throughout the week there are other opportunities.  On Mondays at 10am, soulful conversation can be had at Coffee & A Psalm. Then on Wednesdays at 10am, the Wednesday Gathering is a place for thoughtful discussion on the Biblical texts for the week, healing prayer and Eucharist.  Each Thursday at 5pm you can sit with others for Meditation and Centering Prayer.  Finally, Kim and I are developing a course for Lent focused on Christian responses to our immigration crisis.  Be on the lookout for more info on that.

Beginning February 8, after church, I will be offering once again the Foundations Class.  It is designed for those who want a deeper understanding of the Episcopal Church and my particular take on Christianity.  If you are new to Grace and curious about the Episcopal tradition, are a teenager or adult who wants to be confirmed, or if you've been around Grace a while and want a refesher - this is for you.  It's a new members class, a confirmation class, and a spiritual repast combined.  

Classes are structured around a presentation by me, videos, and facilitated conversation.  Topics will include:

           -   Faith in the Sacred Mystery

           -   Bible Stories:  Mystery Speaks 

           -   The Experience of the Church:  History

           -   Faith as Understanding:  Creeds 

           -   Worship:  Responding to God’s Blessings

           -  Sacraments:  The Mystery of Grace

           -  Spirituality:  Created for Prayer 

We will meet in the Living Room after worship on Sundays, 11:30am-1pm, Feb 8 - April 19.  (With the exception of Feb 15 & 22, when we will start at 1pm).

For those who wish, we will travel together to St. Mark's Cathedral on Saturday, April 25, to be confirmed by the Bishop.  

If you are a member of Grace, but have never been confirmed, you might want to consider doing so.  Confirmation is a requirement for membership in the greater Episcopal church (though not for membership at Grace).  When I went through the process, I didn't think it was going to be that meaningful, but I was surprised by how impactful my confirmation ceremony was.  Bishop Greg Rickel laid his hands upon my head, in line with a long succession of people before him, passing on to me the blessing that comes with being one of Jesus' disciples.  I had a greater sense of belonging and a peace at knowing I was spiritually home.  

If you are interested in joining this class, please let me know at: reveric@gracehere.org.

And, by all means, let's continue to strengthen ourselves for this present time.  

Peace, 

Rev. Eric