Dear Friends,

Someone mentioned recently in a group that they were "counting the days" until a certain event happened. But they soon realized by letting their thoughts skip ahead to the much-anticipated event, all of the other precious moments of their life each day were deemed less important.

Big events and small, day-to-day events both are important when we allow ourselves to appreciate the here and now.

So we will NOT focus in this issue on how many days it is until spring break, except to say we will be open when that comes.

In the meantime, why not visit us this week in our regular day-to-day moments? Read about what's coming up and mark your calendar, then check out this week's schedule at the end of this newsletter.

Friday Meditation and Mindfulness

Center yourself and find peace in the midst of your busy life. Friday Meditation and Mindfulness, led by Becky Burks, meets monthly during the noon hour at 12:30 p.m. The next times: Friday, March 15, and April 19.

Drum Circle

The next Drum Circle is Sunday, March 17 at 1 p.m., led by Amy Thompson. Drumming is a way to connect with the rhythm of life and find balance, wholeness and connection. No musical experience is necessary. Percussion instruments are provided.

Chanting the Psalms and Contemplative Sit

Deepen your spirituality by chanting the psalms. Led by Amy Thompson, this features Anglican and Gregorian chants using Psalms, followed by a 20-minute meditative sit (or centering). The next gathering is Sunday, March 17, 2-3 p.m.

Book Club Tuesday

In-person and on Zoom

 How did Vincent Van Gogh become a famous artist around the world?

That's the topic of our next novel as we explore fiction in the book club this year. In this case, author Marta Molnar paints a story based on fact.

Join us for great conversation on the book Tuesday, March 19, at 6 p.m. Come in person, or join us via zoom. https://us02web.zoom.us/j/85791528587?pwd=UU9EcDRYeFFiaVRmc1lNS2VIdnNhUT09

Meeting ID: 857 9152 8587

Passcode: 431978

Also, bring your ideas for other books we might all enjoy discussing in future months.

Are you Done?

Are you “done” with participating in a church, but looking for a place for spiritual community and conversation? Come on Wednesday, March 20, 7-8 p.m. to visit with others who feel the same.

We're gathering a group that seeks to create space for those who would describe themselves as “done” with church, or those who no longer feel at home or accepted in church settings for a variety of reasons but who still want to grow in their faith.    

Led by Heidi Campbell, with her husband Troy Shepherd, the group meets monthly. Come help us build a supportive and safe space for spiritual conversations and contemplation with others.

Spirituality of Breadmaking

So much fun was had making bread together last year, that we'll have another series in 2024.

The first will be Herbal Encouragement Bread on April 6, 9:30-11:30 a.m.

This recipe is the creation of Fr. Dominick Garramone, also known as the Bread Monk. Ingredients have symbolic meanings, making it good to share with someone going through a tough time.

The group includes meditation and sharing times during the making, kneading and rising times. Watch for registration dates soon, but mark your calendar now. Two more breadmaking events will be held later in the year. Events are open to all and children with adults are welcome as well.

Register for the April event below.

"Setting the Spiritual Woman Free"

An exploration of the spirit-fed source of strong women will be the theme of a retreat May 4, 9-Noon.

Led by Dr. Vivian Dawkins, a spiritual director from Spring, the event will explore ways to discover the links we have to all the Mary's in the bible, and all the Martha's in our world.

Participants will reflect on their strengths as women of God, Dawkins said.

Register for the May event below.