The Practice is an experimental gathering at Willow Creek Community Church where we immerse ourselves in God’s dream for humanity, practice the historic disciplines that align us with His dream, and carry each other along the way. We are learning to live out Jesus’ teachings in the world.
A Prayer Before Voting
This fall, we have been offering practices for a kingdom-centered politics. In this short practice, we offer a prayer in preparation of voting. We would encourage you to pray this prayer before you vote, whether in the parking lot of your polling place or while you wait in line. As we hold various groups of people in the light of God's loving presence, we respond together, "Your kingdom come. Your will be done.
10/22/2024 • 5 minutes, 26 seconds
Walking with the Kings
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, the wilderness, and the Promised Land. If you missed the previous series, you can check out the links above. In this series, we will explore the period of the kings from Saul through the fall of the Northern Kingdom and Judah. We will notice how the stories of these kings echo all the way back to the garden. How do the Israelites and their kings respond to that choice to submit to the reign and rule of Yahweh or choose what is right in their own eyes? And how might we see our own stories reflected in the story of scripture? For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/21/2024 • 45 minutes, 56 seconds
Walking with the Kings: David
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, the wilderness, and the Promised Land. If you missed the previous series, you can check out the links above. In this series, we will explore the period of the kings from Saul through the fall of the Northern Kingdom and Judah. We will notice how the stories of these kings echo all the way back to the garden. How do the Israelites and their kings respond to that choice to submit to the reign and rule of Yahweh or choose what is right in their own eyes? And how might we see our own stories reflected in the story of scripture? For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/14/2024 • 47 minutes, 7 seconds
Walking with the Kings: Saul
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, the wilderness, and the Promised Land. If you missed the previous series, you can check out the links above. In this series, we will explore the period of the kings from Saul through the fall of the Northern Kingdom and Judah. We will notice how the stories of these kings echo all the way back to the garden. How do the Israelites and their kings respond to that choice to submit to the reign and rule of Yahweh or choose what is right in their own eyes? And how might we see our own stories reflected in the story of scripture? For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/6/2024 • 45 minutes, 17 seconds
A Counter-Formational Political Practice: The Examen
This guided practice is a part of our series The Liturgy of Politics. As we seek to untangle ourselves from the partisan liturgies of our culture, we are engaging counter-formational practices. In this practice of the Examen, we consider our political activity (the media we consume and our response, our conversations, the ways we serve our communities, and voting) and ask when our activity was centered on the partisan liturgies of our culture and when they were centered on the radical alternative of God's kingdom.
10/4/2024 • 12 minutes, 13 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics: The Partisan Liturgy of Tribalism
Aristotle said the purpose of politics is to create a people who are better than they would be without it. Politics has a way of shaping how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Have you noticed how this is parallel to the task of the gospel? This journey of faith creates us to be someone better than we would be without Jesus. Jesus shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Is it any wonder our political activity has gotten so bound up in our understanding of the gospel? In fact, our partisanship and faith have become so wrapped up together, that it is like one big ball of tangled string. They influence one another in various ways (some helpful and some not), and often times it is hard to tell where one begins and the other ends. This month, we will be crafting experiments together. These experiments will center on how we engage politics and how we are being formed by politics. Together we will notice what strings in this tangled mess the Holy Spirit is drawing to our attention, and we will intentionally practice ways of untangling that thread. How can we seek to be formed in the way of God's kingdom and bring that to bear on politics rather than allowing politics to shape how we view the kingdom? We continued our experiments this week exposing the partisan liturgy of tribalism, reflecting on the ways we are tempted to find our identity in a political party or position. Then, we considered the counter-formational liturgy of humble service. What if our political activity followed the way of Jesus and humble service? You can find the handout for crafting an experiments here. For additional resources, please visit our website. Resources for Navigating This Political Season If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
9/22/2024 • 44 minutes, 33 seconds
A Counter-Formational Political Practice: Breath Prayer
This guided practice is a part of our series The Liturgy of Politics. As we seek to untangle ourselves from the partisan liturgies of our culture, we are engaging counter-formational practices. In this practice, we respond to the partisan liturgy of fear with the practice of breath prayer. With Jesus, we pray the words, “Your kingdom come. Your will be done.” This prayer reminds us, in the words of Pastor Mike Lueken, even if the worst we can imagine happens in this election season, “Jesus is still king. The kingdom is still real, and all shall be well.” And it reminds us that we are invited to join the Holy Spirit in its redemptive kingdom work.
9/16/2024 • 5 minutes, 1 second
A Counter-Formational Political Practice: Welcoming Prayer
This guided practice is a part of our series The Liturgy of Politics. As we seek to untangle ourselves from the partisan liturgies of our culture, we are engaging counter-formational practices. In response to our partisan culture which uses fear as a political tool, we offer a practice that can help us welcome the love and presence of Jesus into our fear so that we might be the kind of people whose political activity is marked by love.
9/16/2024 • 11 minutes, 17 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics: The Partisan Liturgy of Fear
Aristotle said the purpose of politics is to create a people who are better than they would be without it. Politics has a way of shaping how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Have you noticed how this is parallel to the task of the gospel? This journey of faith creates us to be someone better than we would be without Jesus. Jesus shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Is it any wonder our political activity has gotten so bound up in our understanding of the gospel? In fact, our partisanship and faith have become so wrapped up together, that it is like one big ball of tangled string. They influence one another in various ways (some helpful and some not), and often times it is hard to tell where one begins and the other ends. This month, we will be crafting experiments together. These experiments will center on how we engage politics and how we are being formed by politics. Together we will notice what strings in this tangled mess the Holy Spirit is drawing to our attention, and we will intentionally practice ways of untangling that thread. How can we seek to be formed in the way of God's kingdom and bring that to bear on politics rather than allowing politics to shape how we view the kingdom? We began this week with crafting our experiments. Setting the stage for the journey, we considered the formational nature of politics, and how this nature runs parallel to the gospel. Recognizing how easy this makes it for partisan politics to become entangled with the gospel, we set out to craft experiments that will help ground us in the kingdom of God and allow the Spirit to shape how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we believe we should live. You can find the handout for crafting an experiments here. For additional resources, please visit our website. Resources for Navigating This Political Season If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
9/15/2024 • 50 minutes, 29 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics: Crafting our experiments
Aristotle said the purpose of politics is to create a people who are better than they would be without it. Politics has a way of shaping how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Have you noticed how this is parallel to the task of the gospel? This journey of faith creates us to be someone better than we would be without Jesus. Jesus shapes how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we should live in the world. Is it any wonder our political activity has gotten so bound up in our understanding of the gospel? In fact, our partisanship and faith have become so wrapped up together, that it is like one big ball of tangled string. They influence one another in various ways (some helpful and some not), and often times it is hard to tell where one begins and the other ends. This month, we will be crafting experiments together. These experiments will center on how we engage politics and how we are being formed by politics. Together we will notice what strings in this tangled mess the Holy Spirit is drawing to our attention, and we will intentionally practice ways of untangling that thread. How can we seek to be formed in the way of God's kingdom and bring that to bear on politics rather than allowing politics to shape how we view the kingdom? We began this week with crafting our experiments. Setting the stage for the journey, we considered the formational nature of politics, and how this nature runs parallel to the gospel. Recognizing how easy this makes it for partisan politics to become entangled with the gospel, we set out to craft experiments that will help ground us in the kingdom of God and allow the Spirit to shape how we see ourselves, how we see others, and how we believe we should live. You can find the handout for crafting an experiments here. For additional resources, please visit our website. Resources for Navigating This Political Season If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
9/8/2024 • 53 minutes, 22 seconds
The Communion of Saints: Thomas Kelly
From the very beginning of The Practice, we have always appreciated the important lessons we can learn from various Christian traditions throughout the history of the Church. This summer, we will spend time learning about our sisters and brothers, some you may know and others you may not. We hope to not only learn about them, but also to listen to what they might have to teach us in this day and age. This week, Ted Harro invited us to listen to an imagined letter to our community from the Quaker mystic Thomas Kelly. For additional resources, please visit our website. Resources for Navigating This Political Season If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
8/18/2024 • 47 minutes, 49 seconds
The Communion of Saints: Ella Baker
From the very beginning of The Practice, we have always appreciated the important lessons we can learn from various Christian traditions throughout the history of the Church. This summer, we will spend time learning about our sisters and brothers, some you may know and others you may not. We hope to not only learn about them, but also to listen to what they might have to teach us in this day and age. This week, Juliet Liu invited us consider the example of Ella Baker. In her life and work, Ella might show us how our contemplation to move us to action. She would teach us to take seriously the dignity of all people, even the most ordinary. And she would encourage us not to dispair but to find hope in the people who point us toward joy. You can find the images we used for visio divina here (The Saints of Selma and a photo of Ella Baker.) For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
8/12/2024 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 9 seconds
The Communion of Saints: Harriet Tubman
From the very beginning of The Practice, we have always appreciated the important lessons we can learn from various Christian traditions throughout the history of the Church. This summer, we will spend time learning about our sisters and brothers, some you may know and others you may not. We hope to not only learn about them, but also to listen to what they might have to teach us in this day and age. This week, Julian Davis Reid guided us in a reflection on the life of Harriet Tubman. He asked how we might follow Harriet as she followed Jesus, and invited us to consider two specific practices, sanctuary and sleep. Where and how do we need to encounter sancuary? How can sleep deepen our faith, and how can we turn outward, pursuing sanctuary for others in our world? For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
8/5/2024 • 55 minutes, 2 seconds
The Communion of Saints: Desert Mothers and Fathers
From the very beginning of The Practice, we have always appreciated the important lessons we can learn from various Christian traditions throughout the history of the Church. This summer, we will spend time learning about our sisters and brothers, some you may know and others you may not. We hope to not only learn about them, but also to listen to what they might have to teach us in this day and age. This week, we looked to the Desert Mothers and Fathers. There are remarkable similarities between our culture today and the culture of the fourth century. What word of wisdom might these wonderful saints offer to us in this day and age? What can we learn from their resistance to being carried along by cultural currents? What if God is inviting us to be a little weird, to flee from power, comfort, and significance, and to do it all for the sake of love? For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
7/22/2024 • 52 minutes, 3 seconds
The Communion of Saints: Irenaeus
From the very beginning of The Practice, we have always appreciated the important lessons we can learn from various Christian traditions throughout the history of the Church. This summer, we will spend time learning about our sisters and brothers, some you may know and others you may not. We hope to not only learn about them, but also to listen to what they might have to teach us in this day and age. In the first week of our series, we heard about Irenaeus, his stand against gnosticism and how the doctrine of the incarnation helps us avoid gnosticism today. For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
7/15/2024 • 42 minutes, 20 seconds
Walking in the Promised Land: Judges
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, and the wilderness. If you missed the previous series, you can check out these links. In this series, we will join the Israelites as they enter the promised land. We will explore the themes of Joshua and Judges, noticing how God’s invitation continues to echo from the very beginning. What might the text have to say about our own stories as we consider the successes and struggles of the Israelites? In the third week of our series, Jason Hitchcock invited us to consider how the story of Judges demonstrates the faithful love of God in the midst of Israelite failure. We see God's desire for the people's good, and how hope is able to grow in desperate places. For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
6/24/2024 • 42 minutes, 3 seconds
Walking in the Promised Land: The Conquest Narratives
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, and the wilderness. If you missed the previous series, you can check out these links. In this series, we will join the Israelites as they enter the promised land. We will explore the themes of Joshua and Judges, noticing how God’s invitation continues to echo from the very beginning. What might the text have to say about our own stories as we consider the successes and struggles of the Israelites? In our second week of the series, Dr. Walton helped us explore some of the troubling passages of Joshua. He said, these stories are really about making room for God's presence. The land, the text teaches us, does not belong to the Canaanites or Israel. The land belongs to Yahweh and is an important part of God's plan for redeeming all of creation. You can read more in Dr. Walton's book The Lost World of the Israelite Conquest. For additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
6/17/2024 • 49 minutes, 7 seconds
Walking in the Promised Land: Joshua
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, and the wilderness. If you missed the previous series, you can check out these links. In this series, we will join the Israelites as they enter the promised land. We will explore the themes of Joshua and Judges, noticing how God’s invitation continues to echo from the very beginning. What might the text have to say about our own stories as we consider the successes and struggles of the Israelites? In the first week, we explored the story of Joshua. We noticed God's resistance to the kind of in or out determinations to which we so quickly jump. And we considered how we can abide in God's rest, provision, and dwelling presence, so that we might join God in extending these kingdom blessings to others as we reflect God's will and ways. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/ Last year we began our journey walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11), the blessing (Genesis 12-50), the exodus, and the wilderness. If you missed the previous series, you can check out the links above.
6/10/2024 • 40 minutes, 16 seconds
A Morning with Malcolm Guite
In this gathering, the wonderful poet Malcolm Guite invited us to consider that the Light of the World is writing us into existence. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
6/2/2024 • 42 minutes, 20 seconds
The Gift of Forgiveness: Cutting Ties with the Hurt
Forgiveness is a foundational characteristic of God's kingdom. We understand this easily when we consider our own forgiveness, but how often do we recognize this is also true of our forgiving one another? This month, we seek to respond to God's invitation to forgive as we have been forgiven. This week, Casey Tygrett invited us to consider how Mark 11:25 invites us to cut our connection to the anger, disappointment, and hurt we so often hold onto that holds us back from a fruit-filled kingdom life. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
5/20/2024 • 39 minutes, 1 second
Practice of Forgiveness
This guided practice is a part of our series The Gift of Forgiveness. Forgiveness is a foundational characteristic of God's kingdom. We understand this easily when we consider our own forgiveness, but how often do we recognize this is also true of our forgiving one another? This month, we seek to respond to God's invitation to forgive as we have been forgiven. This practice comes from the second week of the series.
5/13/2024 • 23 minutes, 36 seconds
The Gift of Forgiveness: Received When Given Away
Forgiveness is a foundational characteristic of God's kingdom. We understand this easily when we consider our own forgiveness, but how often do we recognize this is also true of our forgiving one another? This month, we seek to respond to God's invitation to forgive as we have been forgiven. This week, Father Michael continued our examination of Christ's teaching on forgiveness as we considered Matthew 6:14-15. Father Michael reminded us that unforgiveness restricts the flow of grace into our lives and invited us to "recieve the forgiveness and grace only God can bestow, received when given away." For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
5/13/2024 • 47 minutes, 43 seconds
The Gift of Forgiveness: Surrendering Our Right to Get Even
Forgiveness is a foundational characteristic of God's kingdom. We understand this easily when we consider our own forgiveness, but how often do we recognize this is also true of our forgiving one another? This month, we seek to respond to God's invitation to forgive as we have been forgiven. We began our journey exploring the parable of the unmerciful servant in Matthew 18. Jesus teaches us in this parable how radical forgiveness is a fundamental characteristic of God's kingdom. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
5/6/2024 • 52 minutes, 18 seconds
Experiment in Joy: Fertile Ground
Joy is a foundational element of our faith. It connects us to God, ourselves and one another, it helps us endure difficult seasons, and it grounds our lives in the loving presence of God. This month, we will craft experiments to practice together that will help us deepen our capacity for joy. In the third week of our experiments we asked, what if God is dancing through creation spreading the seeds of joy and connection all over? How might we become fertile soil for those seeds to take root and flourish? If you haven't yet crafted an experiment, it's not too late to join us. You can find the handout for crafting an experiment here. If you are forming a group or would like help, please let us know! For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
4/22/2024 • 39 minutes, 37 seconds
An Experiment in Joy: Our Joyful God
Joy is a foundational element of our faith. It connects us to God, ourselves and one another, it helps us endure difficult seasons, and it grounds our lives in the loving presence of God. This month, we will craft experiments to practice together that will help us deepen our capacity for joy. In the second week of our experiments, Bethany Timmons reminded us it is okay to wrestle with joy because God is always joyful and always offering joy to us. If you haven't yet crafted an experiment, it's not too late to join us. You can find the handout for crafting an experiment here. If you are forming a group or would like help, please let us know! For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
4/15/2024 • 41 minutes, 57 seconds
An Experiment in Joy
Joy is a foundational element of our faith. It connects us to God, ourselves and one another, it helps us endure difficult seasons, and it grounds our lives in the loving presence of God. This month, we will craft experiments to practice together that will help us deepen our capacity for joy. You can find the handout for crafting an experiment here. In the first week, Nicole guided us through crafting our experiments. She invited us to consider how we might move toward centering ourselves in Christ and cultivate the conditions necessary for joy to grow in our lives. If you are forming a group or would like help, please let us know! For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
4/8/2024 • 59 minutes, 26 seconds
Easter: Resurrection Hope
On Easter Sunday, we gathered to celebrate the risen Christ. This year we considered three great hopes of resurrection. First, Jesus is with us in our suffering. Second, God’s kingdom is present and available here and now, and finally, one day God’s kingdom will arrive in its fullness, God will make all things new and everything sad will become untrue. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
4/1/2024 • 33 minutes, 34 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: A Practice of Gratitude and Memory
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This is one of the practices from the final week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 9 minutes, 34 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: A Practice of Stillness
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This is one of the practices from the final week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 10 minutes, 19 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: An Imaginative Encounter with Jesus
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This practice comes from the fifth week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 14 minutes, 11 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: Guided Meditation on the Parable of the Prodigal Son
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This practice comes from the fourth week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 23 minutes, 31 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: An Embodied Practice of Centering
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This practice comes from the third week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 7 minutes, 59 seconds
Practice of Joyful Connection: A Practice of Curiosity
This guided practice is a part of our series Attached. We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. This practice comes from the second week of the series. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 7 minutes, 59 seconds
Attached: Practices to Deepen Our Capacity for Joyful Connection
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. In the final week of our series, we considered how we are being invited to move forward. Rather than seeing this series an end, what if we saw it as a launching pad into a deepening capacity for joyful connection? Our hope in this series is that we gain a framework for understanding how our wounds impact us and our relationship with God, and begin to receive some practices that help us to open ourselves to the healing, delight-filled presence of God. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
3/18/2024 • 56 minutes, 1 second
Attached: Barrier or Conduit?
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. In our fifth week, Aubrey Reynolds invited us to consider how the barriers to connection we experience, might actually be conduits if we seek to love these wounded parts of ourselves. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
3/10/2024 • 50 minutes, 48 seconds
Attached: Intimacy and Independence
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. In our fourth week, Nicole invited us to consider what strategies we have employed seeking protection instead of joyful connection. Have we pushed for intimacy without independence or independence without intimacy? She then asked, what it might look like for us to return to joy. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
3/3/2024 • 54 minutes, 58 seconds
Attached: Rupture and Repair with God
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. In our third week, we reflected on the neuroscience of rupture and repair and how it impacts our capacity for joyful connection with God. Cyd Holsclaw invited us to consider our implicit views of God and how we can engage our bodies as we participate with God in the process of repair. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
2/19/2024 • 48 minutes, 57 seconds
Attached: Curiosity Instead of Shame and Fear
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. Our series began by wondering if we might see salvation as "a new and active attachment with God that forms and transforms our identities?" What if we grounded our journey in the reality that we are created for joyful connection, and that God doesn't just love us, but God likes us and even delights in us. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
2/11/2024 • 50 minutes, 46 seconds
Attached: What if God Actually Likes You?
We were made for joyful connection with God. The truest thing about us is that we were created to live in joy-filled communion with God and one another, but we think we can do better. We choose what is right in our own eyes and introduce disorder into the world. That disorder infects the world, and the pain, sorrow, and injustice leads us to question if God really loves us. In this series, we hope to become aware of what gets in the way of our attachment and deepen our capacity for attachment to God. Our series began by wondering if we might see salvation as "a new and active attachment with God that forms and transforms our identities?" What if we grounded our journey in the reality that we are created for joyful connection, and that God doesn't just love us, but God likes us and even delights in us. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
2/4/2024 • 58 minutes, 46 seconds
Walking in the Wilderness: Wrestling in the Desert
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time in 2023 walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing(Genesis 12-50), and Exodus, we now turn our attention to Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. What teaching can we receive from the story of Israel's journey from Sinai to the promised land? How is grumbling different from lament, and why does Moses tell the next generation over and over to remember their parents? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
1/22/2024 • 50 minutes, 44 seconds
Walking in the Wilderness: Purity and Sacrifices
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time in 2023 walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing (Genesis 12-50), and Exodus, we now turn our attention to Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. What is the story being told by the sacrifices of Leviticus? While burnt and purification offerings may seem outdated and maybe even primitive to our modern sensibilities, they actually offer important teaching about God and God's relationship with us. The teaching of Leviticus shows us how God has made a way for us, people who live close to death and disorder, to live with the One who is the source of life and order. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
1/14/2024 • 1 hour, 24 seconds
Walking in the Wilderness: Leviticus Details
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time in 2023 walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing (Genesis 12-50), and Exodus, we now turn our attention to Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy. In the first week of our series, we considered how God is with us in the details. Leviticus is full of details, and a part of the Torah (teaching) of this book is, as Casey said, "The good stuff of life is being in the weeds with God." For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
1/8/2024 • 47 minutes, 38 seconds
Advent: Longing for Jesus
Advent is a season of waiting and longing. Through history, the church has identified the weeks leading up to Christmas as a time of preparation, a season to notice our deep and innate longing for Jesus. We anticipate the coming of the Christ child and his presence with us today, and we wait in hope-filled longing for the day when he will come again. As we journey together through Advent this year, we will seek to consider, welcome, and hold our longings as we anticipate the coming of Jesus. We hope for his presence with us today, and we look forward to the day of his return when everything sad will become untrue. This week, Casey Tygrett invited us to consider the longing we see revealed in the Psalms of David. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
12/18/2023 • 37 minutes, 56 seconds
Advent: Longing for Jesus
Advent is a season of waiting and longing. Through history, the church has identified the weeks leading up to Christmas as a time of preparation, a season to notice our deep and innate longing for Jesus. We anticipate the coming of the Christ child and his presence with us today, and we wait in hope-filled longing for the day when he will come again. As we journey together through Advent this year, we will seek to consider, welcome, and hold our longings as we anticipate the coming of Jesus. We hope for his presence with us today, and we look forward to the day of his return when everything sad will become untrue. This week, Nicole invited us to consider our longing for home as reflect on the story of Ruth. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
12/10/2023 • 44 minutes, 27 seconds
Practice: A Prayer to Welcome Our Longing
This guided practice is a part of our Advent journey in 2023. We are seeking to consider, welcome, and hold our longings as we anticipate the coming of Jesus. We hope for his presence with us today, and we look forward to the day of his return when everything sad will become untrue. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
12/3/2023 • 9 minutes, 57 seconds
Advent: Longing for Jesus
Advent is a season of waiting and longing. Through history, the church has identified the weeks leading up to Christmas as a time of preparation, a season to notice our deep and innate longing for Jesus. We anticipate the coming of the Christ child and his presence with us today, and we wait in hope-filled longing for the day when he will come again. As we journey together through Advent this year, we will seek to consider, welcome, and hold our longings as we anticipate the coming of Jesus. We hope for his presence with us today, and we look forward to the day of his return when everything sad will become untrue. This week, we identified our longing in this season and sought to welcome and hold it in hope-filled expectation for the coming of Christ. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
12/3/2023 • 38 minutes, 1 second
Faith Like a Child: Play
In the Gospels, Jesus shows great affection towards children. In Matthew, he says “unless you turn from your sins and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom.” In her wonderful book, Faith Like a Child, our friend Lacy Borgo writes, “Our first and most natural inclination as children is to connect with God in deeply uniting and often ordinary ways.” In this series, we are asking how have we left these childhood aspects of ourselves behind. And more importantly, how can we get them back so we might once again attach to God with faith like a child? This week, Kirsten Hitchcock gtaught us about the formational role of childlike play. Play ushers us into the freedom of Christ and invites us to be with Jesus. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
11/20/2023 • 44 minutes, 52 seconds
Faith Like a Child: Curiosity
In the Gospels, Jesus shows great affection towards children. In Matthew, he says “unless you turn from your sins and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom.” In her wonderful book, Faith Like a Child, our friend Lacy Borgo writes, “Our first and most natural inclination as children is to connect with God in deeply uniting and often ordinary ways.” In this series, we are asking how have we left these childhood aspects of ourselves behind. And more importantly, how can we get them back so we might once again attach to God with faith like a child? This week, Caiden and Jason invited us to consider the role curiosity plays in our childlike faith. Curiosity invites us into deeper relationship and encourages us to live in the freedom of not having everything figured out. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
11/13/2023 • 36 minutes, 43 seconds
Faith Like a Child
In the Gospels, Jesus shows great affection towards children. In Matthew, he says “unless you turn from your sins and become like little children you will never enter the kingdom.” In her wonderful book, Faith Like a Child, our friend Lacy Borgo writes, “Our first and most natural inclination as children is to connect with God in deeply uniting and often ordinary ways.” In this series, we are asking how have we left these childhood aspects of ourselves behind. And more importantly, how can we get them back so we might once again attach to God with faith like a child? This week, Lacy Borgo was here to guide us in considering our image of God including the wonder and wound of our childhood. As we seek to deepen our attachment to God, Lacy invites us into a three step practice: notice, run to Jesus, and look around. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
11/6/2023 • 41 minutes, 49 seconds
For the Sake of the World: an experiment
Our formation is never for our own benefit alone. It is always for the sake of the world. Trevor Hudson has said, “The kingdom of God is creation healed.” This month we ask how is each of us being invited to partner with God in that healing. Whether we know exactly where God is inviting us or we have no idea at all, it is our hope this experiment will help us gain clarity on how our formation is leading us to partner with God for the sake of the world. This week, Andy King from the Dream Center Peoria will share about their ministry to unhoused women and children and encourage us to consider how we might listen to those impacted by the groans of creation we have identified. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/23/2023 • 56 minutes, 23 seconds
For the Sake of the World: an experiment
Our formation is never for our own benefit alone. It is always for the sake of the world. Trevor Hudson has said, “The kingdom of God is creation healed.” This month we ask how is each of us being invited to partner with God in that healing. Whether we know exactly where God is inviting us or we have no idea at all, it is our hope this experiment will help us gain clarity on how our formation is leading us to partner with God for the sake of the world. This week, Troy Jackson from the ministry Undivided invited us to consider how we might open ourselves to allow the groans of creation to move from our heads to our heart and into our gut. (A note about the practice: this was a communal practice that does not translate well to a podcast, but we would strongly encourage you to find a way to practice it with someone. It was a deeply meaningful practice.) For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/16/2023 • 41 minutes, 33 seconds
For the Sake of the World: an experiment
Our formation is never for our own benefit alone. It is always for the sake of the world. Trevor Hudson has said, “The kingdom of God is creation healed.” This month we ask how is each of us being invited to partner with God in that healing. Whether we know exactly where God is inviting us or we have no idea at all, it is our hope this experiment will help us gain clarity on how our formation is leading us to partner with God for the sake of the world. This week, Gabe Lerma invited us to consider how our stories tie into our experiments and how God might be stirring us to action this week. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/9/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 47 seconds
For the Sake of the World: an experiment
Our formation is never for our own benefit alone. It is always for the sake of the world. Trevor Hudson has said, “The kingdom of God is creation healed.” This month we ask how is each of us being invited to partner with God in that healing. Whether we know exactly where God is inviting us or we have no idea at all, it is our hope this experiment will help us gain clarity on how our formation is leading us to partner with God for the sake of the world. This week, we considered which groans of creation echo most loudly in our lives. Where do we sense an invition to join God's work of restoration in the world. It may be a deep need in the world or a need close to home. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
10/2/2023 • 52 minutes, 35 seconds
Walking in the Exodus: Tabernacle
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time earlier this year walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing (Genesis 12-50), we turn our attention to Exodus. This week, we reflected on the third movement of Exodus. The tabernacle calls to mind Eden over and over and invites us to feel the weight of Yahweh's promise to be with us. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
9/17/2023 • 52 minutes, 6 seconds
Walking in the Exodus: Torah
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time earlier this year walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing (Genesis 12-50), we turn our attention to Exodus. This week, we reflected on the second movement of Exodus. Here Israel recieves Torah. Dr. Walton invited us to think differently about Torah. Rather than seeing it as a modern legal code, what if we saw it as an invitation to grow in wisdom? What if Torah offers us wisdom to understand the scope and range of holiness to guide us in forging an identity that correlates with the holy status we have been given as a new covenant people of God? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
9/11/2023 • 1 hour, 13 minutes, 37 seconds
Walking in the Exodus
In this recurring series, we are walking in the story of scripture, noticing the intricate way God’s story is woven together and shines a light on our own stories. After spending time earlier this year walking in the beginning (Genesis 1-11) and the blessing (Genesis 12-50), we turn our attention to Exodus. This week, we reflected on the first movement of Exodus and observed how Yahweh answers the central question of this foundational book, "Who is Yahweh?" We considered how Yahweh's deliverance of Israel demonstrates the character and identity of God.
9/5/2023 • 47 minutes, 51 seconds
Ordinary Time: Food
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. This week, Nicole invited us to see the table sacramentally. Feasting is a way we encounter the joy and love of God. "The table," Nicole said, "is an act of defiance in a world at war." PLEASE NOTE: Communion was a part of our practice in this gathering. We would encourage you to join us by gathering the elements to have ready as you join us in the practice. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://thepracticechurch.com/give/
8/20/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 44 seconds
Ordinary Time: Story
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. This week, Nick Benoit invited us to consider how we encounter God in story. Story invites us to lean in and search for what is true, and it asks that we walk together in community as we seek to make sense of our stories. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
8/14/2023 • 49 minutes, 47 seconds
Ordinary Time: Music
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. In the fourth week of our series, Julian Davis Reid guided our time as we considered how we might see music as an opportunity to encounter God. With 1 Samuel 16:14-23 as a foundation, Julian invited us to notice how "the goodness of God comes to us in music as both a balm and a charge." For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
8/7/2023 • 0
Ordinary Time: Those on the Margins
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. In the third week of our series, we considered how we might encounter God in those who typically find themselves on the margins. Christina Hite invited us to widen the circle of our families and encounter God as we practice a 'radical kinship' with our neighbors. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
7/17/2023 • 50 minutes, 47 seconds
Ordinary Time: Our Neighbors
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. In the second week of our series, we considered how we might encounter God in our neighbors, but we don't just mean our actual neighbors or even just those with whom we have some relationship. We are including those we don't know and might only have an opportunity to interact with for a second or two. How might we see every one of these interactions as an opportunity to recognize God's presence and join God's work in the world? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
7/9/2023 • 46 minutes, 43 seconds
Ordinary Time: The Present Moment
On the church calendar, we are invited into days and seasons of fasting and feasting, but the majority of the calendar is considered 'Ordinary Time.' While there are times for celebration and times for lament, most of life is simply… ordinary. Yet, ordinary does not mean this time is empty of God’s presence and the chance to live with God. This summer, we are examining just a handful of the many opportunities we have to live with God in the ordinary spaces of our lives. This week we are joined by Father Albert Haase to consider how we might encounter God in the present moment. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
7/3/2023 • 47 minutes, 25 seconds
Walking in the Blessing: Joshua
Earlier this year, we began a recurring series in which we will walk in the story of scripture. We began in Genesis 1-11, learning God's intention for creation and what went wrong. In Genesis 12-50 we experience the beginning of God's restorative plan, a plan to redeem and bless creation. This week, Jason led us through the final movement of Genesis, the story of Jacob's children. Joseph's story both sums up the entire book of Genesis and points us forward in hopeful expectation for the coming restoration of all creation. You can download the handout of themes from Genesis here. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
6/19/2023 • 54 minutes, 15 seconds
Walking in the Blessing: Isaac and Jacob
Earlier this year, we began a recurring series in which we will walk in the story of scripture. We began in Genesis 1-11, learning God's intention for creation and what went wrong. In Genesis 12-50 we experience the beginning of God's restorative plan, a plan to redeem and bless creation. This week, Bill Donahue invited us to consider how we find ourselves in the blessing stories of Isaac and Jacob, and to turn outward as we consider how we too might extend blessing to those around us. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
6/11/2023 • 48 minutes, 51 seconds
Walking in the Blessing: Abraham and Sarah
Earlier this year, we began a recurring series in which we will walk in the story of scripture. We began in Genesis 1-11, learning God's intention for creation and what went wrong. In Genesis 12-50 we experience the beginning of God's restorative plan, a plan to redeem and bless creation. This week, Amber Riggs led us through the story of Abraham and Sarah. Using the geography of their journey, she invited us to consider how their story intersects ours. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
6/4/2023 • 46 minutes, 15 seconds
Holy Delight: Unseen Celebration
Have you ever considered that celebration is actually a spiritual practice? In a culture overflowing with reasons for despair, what if the practice of celebration is essential to being formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world? This week, Andy invited us to follow the lead of Mary in the ways of 'unseen celebration.' How can we recognize, treasure, and ponder the extravagant gifts of God's presence and love in our lives? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/22/2023 • 39 minutes, 49 seconds
Holy Delight: Delight in the Midst of Despair
Have you ever considered that celebration is actually a spiritual practice? In a culture overflowing with reasons for despair, what if the practice of celebration is essential to being formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world? This week, Erin invited us to consider that holy delight is possible even in moments of despair. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/15/2023 • 35 minutes, 34 seconds
Holy Delight: The Practice of Celebration
Have you ever considered that celebration is actually a spiritual practice? In a culture overflowing with reasons for despair, what if the practice of celebration is essential to being formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world? This week, Jason offered three invitations with the practice of celebration. First, how can we more intentionally turn our attention to the presence of our Creator in our delight and celebration. Second, how can we be open to celebration in whatever form it takes in our lives, and finally, how can we be on the lookout for opportunities to celebrate in the simple ordinary moments of our day? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/8/2023 • 43 minutes, 45 seconds
Embodied Faith
We don't often think about the role our bodies play in our faith and formation, but scripture teaches that to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world must include our bodies. But what does this mean. How can our faith and formation include our bodies? This week, Chrissie Steyn helps us consider how the enemy inhibits our worship by tempting us to ignore our bodies. Full worship and formation is embodied and connected. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/23/2023 • 38 minutes, 46 seconds
Practice: An Embodied Imaginative Prayer
This guided practice was a part of a gathering all the way back in October of 2015 when Eric Conner led an imaginative prayer designed to invite Jesus into our minds. It might be a helpful practice for you as we consider together the role the body plays in our faith and formation. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/19/2023 • 17 minutes, 9 seconds
Practice: An Embodied Examen
This guided practice was a part of a gathering all the way back in November of 2015 when Father Michael led an embodied examen. It might be a helpful practice for you as we consider together the role the body plays in our faith and formation. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/19/2023 • 12 minutes, 19 seconds
Embodied Faith
We don't often think about the role our bodies play in our faith and formation, but scripture teaches that to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world must include our bodies. But what does this mean. How can our faith and formation include our bodies? This week, Jason asks us to consider how we can listen to our bodies and include them in our practices. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/16/2023 • 56 minutes, 33 seconds
Easter Sunday: On Earth as it is in Heaven
On Easter Sunday, we gathered to celebrate the risen Christ. Nicole Howe guided our time as we considered how Jesus stands as the connection point between heaven and earth. In Jesus, a new reality is introduced. Just as it did in the garden of Eden, heaven overlaps with earth, and in Christ, we are invited to participate in this new reality. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/10/2023 • 39 minutes, 7 seconds
Surrendering Control of God
We have a tricky relationship with control. It is true God gives us agency, and we are responsible to steward that well. However, our agency is limited. We cannot control nearly as much as we would like. So we strive and cling to control, and when the illusion of our control is broken we either cling grasp all the more for power or we resort to deflated inactivity. This year in the season of Lent, we will experiment with surrendering control. If you were not with us last week, we invite you to make some time this week to listen to the teaching of Mandy Smith and craft an experiment. This week, we looked at our tendency to grasp for control of God. What do we do when God doesn't behave the way we expect God to behave? The form for letting us know if you have organized a group or would like help getting connected can be found at https://forms.gle/RbWoDqxcRDAS5rdM6 For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
4/2/2023 • 50 minutes, 32 seconds
Surrendering Control of Ourselves
We have a tricky relationship with control. It is true God gives us agency, and we are responsible to steward that well. However, our agency is limited. We cannot control nearly as much as we would like. So we strive and cling to control, and when the illusion of our control is broken we either cling grasp all the more for power or we resort to deflated inactivity. This year in the season of Lent, we will experiment with surrendering control. If you were not with us last week, we invite you to make some time this week to listen to the teaching of Mandy Smith and craft an experiment. This week, we looked at our tendency to grasp for control with ourselves. We asked what it might look like for us to surrender ourselves as living sacrifices, to lay down our lives for our friends, to love God and neighbor. How might we, as Jesus promised, lose our lives in order to find them? The form for letting us know if you have organized a group or would like help getting connected can be found at https://forms.gle/RbWoDqxcRDAS5rdM6 For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/19/2023 • 51 minutes, 42 seconds
Surrendering Control of Others
We have a tricky relationship with control. It is true God gives us agency, and we are responsible to steward that well. However, our agency is limited. We cannot control nearly as much as we would like. So we strive and cling to control, and when the illusion of our control is broken we either cling grasp all the more for power or we resort to deflated inactivity. This year in the season of Lent, we will experiment with surrendering control. If you were not with us last week, we invite you to make some time this week to listen to the teaching of Mandy Smith and craft an experiment. This week, we looked at our tendency to grasp for control with our resources. We considered how we might control with subtle manipulation of someone's actions or trying to control their emotions. We also asked how our desiring the best for someone we love might lead to a disordered relationship with control. In our practice, we continued to surrender our grasping and clinging, so we might release and surrender to hold the truth that "all shall be well." The form for letting us know if you have organized a group or would like help getting connected can be found at https://forms.gle/RbWoDqxcRDAS5rdM6 For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/12/2023 • 39 minutes, 37 seconds
Surrendering Control of our Resources
We have a tricky relationship with control. It is true God gives us agency, and we are responsible to steward that well. However, our agency is limited. We cannot control nearly as much as we would like. So we strive and cling to control, and when the illusion of our control is broken we either cling grasp all the more for power or we resort to deflated inactivity. This year in the season of Lent, we will experiment with surrendering control. If you were not with us last week, we invite you to make some time this week to listen to the teaching of Mandy Smith and craft an experiment. This week, we looked at our tendency to grasp for control with our resources. We considered knowledge and information, our reputation, finances and possessions, and achievements at work and school. We considered how we might respond differently when life feels out of control. Instead of grasping and clinging, what if we release and surrender so we can hold the truth that “all shall be well.” The form for letting us know if you have organized a group or would like help getting connected can be found at https://forms.gle/RbWoDqxcRDAS5rdM6 For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/6/2023 • 34 minutes, 35 seconds
Surrendering Control: Crafting our Experiments
We have a tricky relationship with control. It is true God gives us agency, and we are responsible to steward that well. However, our agency is limited. We cannot control nearly as much as we would like. So we strive and cling to control, and when the illusion of our control is broken we either cling grasp all the more for power or we resort to deflated inactivity. This year in the season of Lent, we will experiment with surrendering control. In this video, we begin with an interview with pastor and author Mandy Smith. Mandy is the author of a wonderful book, Unfettered that explores our obsession with power and paints a beautiful picture of a childlike faith. Then, we consider our relationship with control and begin the crafting of our experiments. The handout for crafting an experiment can be found at https://drive.google.com/file/d/1g3E6vILmYsBy8sjQX400xa_y1dUb2fvR/view?usp=share_link The form for letting us know if you have organized a group or would like help getting connected can be found at https://forms.gle/RbWoDqxcRDAS5rdM6 The guided practice resources mentioned are the apps Pause, Lectio365, and Pray as You Go, as well as the guided daily office. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
2/24/2023 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 41 seconds
Walking in the Beginning (Genesis 4-11)
This is the start of a recurring series, in which we will be walking in the story of Scripture. As we slowly and reflectively walk through the story, we hope to experience scripture in a fresh way. We want to develop eyes to see the intricate work of God in creation and encounter our wonderful God as we walk with the story. This week, we continued the thread Dr. Walton began with Genesis 1 and the continuation with Genesis 2 and 3. Nicole guided our exploration of Genesis 4-11 and helped us see the cyclical rhythms. All throughout this opening of our story, we see the themes of garden, choice, wild place, deliverance through the waters, and covenant promises, and these themes carry on in the whole story of scripture. You can find the handout from this gathering here. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
2/19/2023 • 32 minutes, 44 seconds
Walking in the Beginning (Genesis 2-3)
This is the start of a recurring series, in which we will be walking in the story of Scripture. As we slowly and reflectively walk through the story, we hope to experience scripture in a fresh way. We want to develop eyes to see the intricate work of God in creation and encounter our wonderful God as we walk with the story. This week, we continued the thread Dr. Walton began as we explored Genesis 2 and 3. We considered the choice before each of us to receive the gift of life and wisdom on God's terms or to take it on our own terms. Are we willing to trust God or will we depend control for ourselves? The story of Adam and Eve is one in which we see ourselves, but the incredible gift is even as we rebel by taking and grasping control, God continues to care and provide for us. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
2/12/2023 • 55 minutes, 41 seconds
Walking in the Beginning (Genesis 1)
This is the start of a recurring series, in which we will be walking in the story of Scripture. As we slowly and reflectively walk through the story, we hope to experience scripture in a fresh way. We want to develop eyes to see the intricate work of God in creation and encounter our wonderful God as we walk with the story. This week, we start at the beginning in Genesis one. Dr. John Walton will help us reflect on the theme of order and disorder. This theme is carried all throughout scripture and is essential for us to understand. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church is your home community, please join the Core Team. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
2/6/2023 • 1 hour, 6 minutes, 40 seconds
The Practice of Study: In Spirit and in Truth
We don't often think of study as a spiritual practice, but it can be. Seeing study as a spiritual practice helps us to move beyond acquiring or accumulating knowledge so that what we learn leads us to wonder and worship. This week, our good friend, Carolyn Arends, encouraged us to see study and contemplation as 'fraternal twins.' Each is incredibly important, but they are much better together. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
1/23/2023 • 1 hour, 2 minutes, 39 seconds
The Practice of Study
We don't often think of study as a spiritual practice, but it can be. Seeing study as a spiritual practice helps us to move beyond acquiring or accumulating knowledge so that what we learn leads us to wonder and worship. This week, Eric Case encouraged us to recognize truth is not an axiom, but a person. How will we respond to truth, when Jesus says, "I am the way, the truth, and the life." For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
1/15/2023 • 49 minutes, 42 seconds
The Practice Church: A Simple Vision
This week, we took time to explore the vision of The Practice Church. Many of us have been formed by our church expereinces to believe a vision should focus on big impact and influence, but what if God is inviting us to something simpler and much more important? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
1/8/2023 • 49 minutes, 8 seconds
What Kind of God: Shepherds
The season of Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation. We prepare our lives to receive God: in the reality of the incarnation, in this present moment, and in the age to come. In our Advent series, we will explore how God comes into the lives of various people in the story, and we will prepare ourselves to encounter God in similar ways in our lives today. This week, we examined the shepherds and their experience of the extraordinary breaking into the ordinary in Luke 2. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
12/18/2022 • 31 minutes, 22 seconds
What Kind of God: Mary
The season of Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation. We prepare our lives to receive God: in the reality of the incarnation, in this present moment, and in the age to come. In our Advent series, we will explore how God comes into the lives of various people in the story, and we will prepare ourselves to encounter God in similar ways in our lives today. I am really excited about how this series has come together, and I cannot wait to engage this holy season with you. This week, Nicole helps us consider the role of Mary, and ask the important question, "What will we do when the story comes to us? For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
12/11/2022 • 42 minutes, 31 seconds
What Kind of God? Elizabeth
The season of Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation. We prepare our lives to receive God: in the reality of the incarnation, in this present moment, and in the age to come. In our Advent series, we will explore how God comes into the lives of various people in the story, and we will prepare ourselves to encounter God in similar ways in our lives today. I am really excited about how this series has come together, and I cannot wait to engage this holy season with you. This week, Deirdré guided our exploration of Elizabeth's role in the story and invited us to encounter God's gaze of kindness in our shame. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
12/5/2022 • 44 minutes, 7 seconds
What Kind of God? Isaiah
The season of Advent is a time of preparation and anticipation. We prepare our lives to receive God: in the reality of the incarnation, in this present moment, and in the age to come. In our Advent series, we will explore how God comes into the lives of various people in the story, and we will prepare ourselves to encounter God in similar ways in our lives today. I am really excited about how this series has come together, and I cannot wait to engage this holy season with you. This week, Dan Crumrine guides our exploration of Isaiah and how we can prepare to encounter God in the waiting. Dan shared two important postures we learn from Isaiah, hopeful anticipation and preparation. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
11/28/2022 • 45 minutes, 17 seconds
Practice: Slowing to Hear God
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 11.20.22. In this gathering, we seek to cultuvate a conversational intimacy with God through silence and listening prayer. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
11/21/2022 • 9 minutes, 18 seconds
Hearing God: Slowing to Hear God's Voice
Cultivating a conversational intimacy with Jesus is essential in our desire to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world. And yet, many in the church today are convinced that either God doesn't speak to them, or they cannot hear God. Our prayer for this series is for each of us to have a greater sense of how we most often hear God so we might grow into a deeper life with God. What if we cultivated a life in which we listened to God in the midst of our ordinary day so we might deepen our friendship with God? This week, Alan Fadling encouraged us to slow down to hear God's voice. Slowing to the pace of prayer, grace, peace, and love cultivates the kind of unhurried life that allows us to deepen our conversational intimacy with God. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
11/21/2022 • 46 minutes, 59 seconds
Hearing God: The Good Shepherd
Cultivating a conversational intimacy with Jesus is essential in our desire to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world. And yet, many in the church today are convinced that either God doesn't speak to them, or they cannot hear God. Our prayer for this series is for each of us to have a greater sense of how we most often hear God so we might grow into a deeper life with God. What if we cultivated a life in which we listened to God in the midst of our ordinary day so we might deepen our friendship with God? This week, Holly Bosier guided our contemplation on hearing God. We considered the gentle voice of love that comes from the Good Shepherd and the accusing voice of the enemy. As we cultivate a deeper bond with Jesus, we are able to stand against the words of the enemy to follow our Good Shepherd more closely. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
11/14/2022 • 41 minutes, 9 seconds
Practice: Hearing God
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 11.6.22. In this gathering, we seek to cultuvate a conversational intimacy with God through silence and listening prayer. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
11/7/2022 • 12 minutes, 5 seconds
Hearing God
Cultivating a conversational intimacy with Jesus is essential in our desire to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world. And yet, many in the church today are convinced that either God doesn't speak to them, or they cannot hear God. Our prayer for this series is for each of us to have a greater sense of how we most often hear God so we might grow into a deeper life with God. What if we cultivated a life in which we listened to God in the midst of our ordinary day so we might deepen our friendship with God? This week, we explored God's desire to partner with humanity and, as Dallas Willard wrote, "to live in a free-hearted collaboration with Jesus and his friends in the kingdom." This sort of conversational intimacy begins in friendship, and helps us to live with God more fully in the midst of our everyday lives. For some additional resources, please visit our website. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
11/7/2022 • 46 minutes, 41 seconds
An Experiment in Sabbath: Attachment
In a culture dominated by busyness, the Christian practice of Sabbath cultivates an important and counter-cultural rhythm orienting our whole lives around the presence and kingdom of God. A Sabbath rhythm is woven into the fabric of creation and creates space for connecting with God, ourselves, and one another. When we intentionally rest from work, productivity, and striving, we open ourselves to God’s profound and personal love. What if a regular rhythm of resting from all the ways we try to earn love is the best way to learn and know deep in our souls that God loves us? This week, we considered how Sabbath serves to deepen our attachment with God. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
10/17/2022 • 46 minutes, 38 seconds
An Experiment in Sabbath: Engaging
In a culture dominated by busyness, the Christian practice of Sabbath cultivates an important and counter-cultural rhythm orienting our whole lives around the presence and kingdom of God. A Sabbath rhythm is woven into the fabric of creation and creates space for connecting with God, ourselves, and one another. When we intentionally rest from work, productivity, and striving, we open ourselves to God’s profound and personal love. What if a regular rhythm of resting from all the ways we try to earn love is the best way to learn and know deep in our souls that God loves us? Last week we acknowledged Sabbath is a practice of both resting and engaging. This week, Keri Wyatt Kent will helps us look more closely at the practices and activities we engage on Sabbath. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
10/10/2022 • 41 minutes, 38 seconds
An Experiment in Sabbath: Resting
In a culture dominated by busyness, the Christian practice of Sabbath cultivates an important and counter-cultural rhythm orienting our whole lives around the presence and kingdom of God. A Sabbath rhythm is woven into the fabric of creation and creates space for connecting with God, ourselves, and one another. When we intentionally rest from work, productivity, and striving, we open ourselves to God's profound and personal love. What if a regular rhythm of resting from all the ways we try to earn love is the best way to learn and know deep in our souls that God loves us? This week, we specifically considered the resting component of a Sabbath practice. (We'll talk about the connecting component next week.) How might our ceasing of work, productivity, and striving make space for us to know how deeply we are loved? If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
10/3/2022 • 57 minutes, 41 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics: Scripture
In our culture, we are being shaped by our political engagement. We are tempted to find our identity in our political affiliation. We view those on the other side with contempt. We form opinions based on memes and talking heads rather than prayer and discernment. We give in to the way of power and control rather than the Christlike way of surrender and self-emptying love. But what if there is another way? This week, Nicole Howe helped us explore the counter-formational practice of scripture. (A note about the practice: In this service, our practice was a reflection on scripture readings in community. The readings and short reflection are included, but the conversation is not.) You can find our kingdom practice this week at https://www.practicetribe.com/scripture-in-community/ If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
9/18/2022 • 36 minutes, 30 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics: Community
In our culture, we are being shaped by our political engagement. We are tempted to find our identity in our political affiliation. We view those on the other side with contempt. We form opinions based on memes and talking heads rather than prayer and discernment. We give in to the way of power and control rather than the Christlike way of surrender and self-emptying love. But what if there is another way? This week, Jason Hitchcock helped us explore the counter-formational practice of community. (A note about the practice: In this service, our practice was a discerning conversation about who we hope to be as a community. Included in the podcast is the framework for our practice and what we shared as a community.) You can find our kingdom practice this week at https://www.practicetribe.com/an-invitation-to-listen/ If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
9/11/2022 • 48 minutes, 44 seconds
Practice: Our Political Formation
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 9.4.22. In our culture, we are being shaped by our political engagement. We are tempted to find our identity in our political affiliation. We view those on the other side with contempt. We form opinions based on memes and talking heads rather than prayer and discernment. We give in to the way of power and control rather than the Christlike way of surrender and self-emptying love. But what if there is another way? In this practice, we consider how we have been shaped by our culture of politics. We start with some reflective questions, then have a conversation with God about what we noticed, and finally we listen for how God might be inviting us to respond. As you engage the practice, we encourage you to be honest. When it comes to political engagement, the stakes can feel big. It can be scary or shameful to consider how we have been shaped in ways that are not aligned with the kingdom of God. Be kind and gracious with yourself but to also be willing to be honest. Remember that God loves you more deeply than you can imagine. At the very core, your identity is that you are a beloved bearer of God’s image. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church athttps://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/5/2022 • 14 minutes, 39 seconds
The Liturgy of Politics
In our culture, we are being shaped by our political engagement. We are tempted to find our identity in our political affiliation. We view those on the other side with contempt. We form opinions based on memes and talking heads rather than prayer and discernment. We give in to the way of power and control rather than the Christlike way of surrender and self-emptying love. But what if there is another way? This week Kaitlyn Schiess, author of The Liturgy of Politics, will help set the table for our journey. If The Practice Church has been meaningful to your journey, would you consider a tax-deductible gift? You can give at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ You can share a story about how you are encountering God in this season at https://www.practicetribe.com/stories/ Join the Practice mailing list. http://eepurl.com/OSfCb
9/5/2022 • 50 minutes, 36 seconds
Beloved: Sharing Belovedness
Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. This week, we turned our attention outward. Our formation is always for the sake of the world. We live into our belovedness so that we might share God's love with the world around us. In our time of practice, we considered with whom the Spirit might be inviting us to share the love of God this week. If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
8/23/2022 • 38 minutes, 21 seconds
Practice: Holding the Gaze of God
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 8.14.22. In this gathering, we stepped into a practice from Curt Thompson's book, Anatomy of the Soul. This practice of being known helps us hold the gaze of God and live into our belovedness. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church athttps://www.practicetribe.com/give/
8/15/2022 • 15 minutes, 4 seconds
Beloved: Holding the Gaze of God
Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. This week, we stepped into a practice from Curt Thompson's book, Anatomy of the Soul. This practice of being known helps us hold the gaze of God and live into our belovedness. If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
8/15/2022 • 30 minutes, 59 seconds
Practice: Being Seen by God
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 7.17.22. In this gathering, we stepped into a time of extended practice of imaginative prayer. Beginning in Genesis 16, we placed ourselves in the presence of the One Hagar named "the God who sees me." How might we grow into a deeper attachment to God if we experience God as the One who sees us? A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church athttps://www.practicetribe.com/give/
7/19/2022 • 44 minutes, 13 seconds
Beloved: Being Seen by God
Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. This week, we stepped into a time of extended practice of imaginative prayer. Beginning in Genesis 16, we placed ourselves in the presence of the One Hagar named "the God who sees me." How might we grow into a deeper attachment to God if we experience God as the One who sees us? If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
7/19/2022 • 49 minutes, 13 seconds
Beloved: Notes of Rest
Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. This week, our new friend Julian Davis Reid guided an extended time of contemplation. With music and thoughtful questions, we pondered the love of God demonstrated in our lives through Romans 8:31-39. You can learn more about Julian on his website If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
7/11/2022 • 1 hour, 46 seconds
Practice: Breathing Belovedness
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 7.3.22. In this gathering we began a summer journey of soaking in our belovedness. Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. In this practice, our good friend Father Michael Sparough guided our time as we practice a beloved breath prayer. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church athttps://www.practicetribe.com/give/
7/4/2022 • 11 minutes, 49 seconds
Beloved: Breathing Belovedness
Being loved by God is the foundation of our identity and the starting point of everything we do. That is why this summer we are soaking, resting, playing, and even breathing in God’s incredible, personal love for us. This week, our good friend Father Michael Sparough guided our time reminding us we belong to Jesus and Jesus loves us in the same way the Father lavished love on Jesus. We all experience the internal voices of the deceiver and the beloved. Our desire is to recognize and turn down the volume of the deceiver so we can live in the voice of the beloved. To help us in this desire, Father Michael shared the practice of a beloved breath prayer. If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
7/4/2022 • 39 minutes, 25 seconds
Encountering God: Love and Justice
In this series, our desire is to soak ourselves in the character of God as it is described in Exodus 34:6-7. It’s our hope that we can have a real encounter with the compassion, grace, slowness to anger, loyal-love, and faithfulness of God in this season. This week, we examined the final verse of our passage, examining this hard verse in the broader context of scripture. If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
6/20/2022 • 49 minutes, 2 seconds
Encountering God: Faithfulness
In this series, our desire is to soak ourselves in the character of God as it is described in Exodus 34:6-7. It’s our hope that we can have a real encounter with the compassion, grace, slowness to anger, loyal-love, and faithfulness of God in this season. This week, we contemplated God's faithfulness and boldly asked God to demonstrate faithfulness to us in this season. You can find the handout used for the practice here. If The Practice Church has been meaningful in your journey, would you consider making a tax-deductible gift?
6/13/2022 • 37 minutes, 25 seconds
Encountering God: Loyal Love
In this series, our desire is to soak ourselves in the character of God as it is described in Exodus 34:6-7. It’s our hope that we can have a real encounter with the compassion, grace, slowness to anger, loyal-love, and faithfulness of God in this season. This week, we contemplated God's loyal love and considered how we might live fully immersed in loyal love.
6/6/2022 • 50 minutes, 8 seconds
Encountering God: Slow to Anger
In this series, our desire is to soak ourselves in the character of God as it is described in Exodus 34:6-7. It’s our hope that we can have a real encounter with the compassion, grace, patience, loyal-love, and faithfulness of God in this season. This week, we examined God's slowness to anger. What makes God angry, and what does God's judgment look like?
5/23/2022 • 40 minutes, 38 seconds
Practice: Encountering God's Grace
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 5.15.2022 in which we are seeking to encounter God as we contemplate the character of God in Exodus 34:6-7. In this practice of gratitude, we look back on the pervious day or week to identify and name that for which we are grateful, we examine how these are gifts from God given with delight, then we choose one to experience in which to rest. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church athttps://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/16/2022 • 9 minutes, 51 seconds
Encountering God: Gracious
In this series, our desire is to soak ourselves in the character of God as it is described in Exodus 34:6-7. It’s our hope that we can have a real encounter with the compassion, grace, patience, loyal-love, and faithfulness of God in this season. This week, we will contemplated God's graciousness. How can we recognize and rest in the God's gifts of grace in our everyday life?
5/16/2022 • 45 minutes, 53 seconds
Practice: Encountering God's Compassion
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 5.8.2022 in which we are seeking to encounter God as we contemplate the character of God in Exodus 34:6-7. In this practice, we imagine ourselves in Matthew 20:29-33 as a way of soaking ourselves in the compassion of God. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/9/2022 • 10 minutes, 55 seconds
Encountering God: Compassion
In this series, we are opening ourselves to encounter the Lord as we explore the character of God in Exodus 34:6-7. We are seeking to steep ourselves in God's presence as we contemplate this important passage and see how we might encounter God with a sense of wonder and awe in the process. This week we contemplate the compassion of God. We see God's willingness to enter into our suffering, and we consider the implications of the Hebrew word rakhum as we rest in the presence of a God who is deeply moved and carries us with the tender care of a mother holding her vulnerable child. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
5/9/2022 • 37 minutes, 3 seconds
Practice: Encountering God
This guided practice was a part of our gathering on 5.1.2022 in which we are seeking to encounter God as we contemplate the character of God in Exodus 34:6-7. In this practice of Lectio Divina, we allow ourselve to steep in the presence of God found in this important text. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
5/2/2022 • 13 minutes, 54 seconds
Encountering God
What if we could move beyond a faith based solely on beliefs or right behaviors? Good theology and kingdom living are absolutely important, but what if this life could be grounded in a real encounter with God? In this series, we are going to steep ourselves in the presence of God. We will contemplate God's character as it is outlined in Exodus 34:6-7, and see how we might encounter God with a sense of wonder and awe in the process. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
5/2/2022 • 42 minutes, 23 seconds
Resurrection Sunday
After spending this last season in the practice of lament and recognizing lament is a form of dying, we celebrate the resurrection of Christ by affirming that death is not the end. In fact, the pain and honesty of lament is a doorway into into a whole new encounter with Jesus. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
4/18/2022 • 40 minutes, 20 seconds
Sacred Sorrow: Palm Sunday
After spending the last four weeks in the practice of lament, we consider the invitation of Palm Sunday. As we have been crying out to God in our sorrow and pain, are we willing to trust however God will respond, even if it is not in the way we hope for God to respond? The practice in our service is an imaginative prayer from Jared Patrick Boyd's wonderful book Imaginative Prayer. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
4/11/2022 • 19 minutes, 53 seconds
Sacred Sorrow: Lament for Loss
This year during Lent, we are diving into a very intentional journey with the spiritual practice of lament. Lament is a good and proper response when we come face to face with the brokenness in ourselves and in the world. During this holy season, we will enter into an experiment which helps us make space in our lives for lament. This week, Joan Kelley helped us understand the need to lament the losses we experience in life. She invited us to see lament as a way of asking God to hold our hearts in the midst of our pain. You can find the handout here. And if you are joining us in the experiment and are not a part of a Table, will you let us know here? We would love to support your experiment. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
3/27/2022 • 44 minutes, 25 seconds
Sacred Sorrow: Lament for Injustice
This year during Lent, we are diving into a very intentional journey with the spiritual practice of lament. Lament is a good and proper response when we come face to face with the brokenness in ourselves and in the world. During this holy season, we will enter into an experiment which helps us make space in our lives for lament. This week, David Bailey guided the next movement of our experiments, Lament for Injustice. David said, "God is a liberating God for an oppressed people, a party throwing God for a partying people, and a reconciling God for a reconciled people. You can find the handout here. And if you are joining us in the experiment and are not a part of a Table, will you let us know here? We would love to support your experiment. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
3/21/2022 • 58 minutes, 57 seconds
Sacred Sorrow: Lament for our sin
This year during Lent, we are diving into a very intentional journey with the spiritual practice of lament. Lament is a good and proper response when we come face to face with the brokenness in ourselves and in the world. During this holy season, we will enter into an experiment which helps us make space in our lives for lament. This week, Casey Tygrett helped us explore the need to lament our sin. He helped us locate our true identity in God's story. Casey said, "Lament for our sin is expressing deep sadness when we forget who we are." You can find the handout here. And if you are joining us in the experiment and are not a part of a Table, will you let us know here? We would love to support your experiment. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
3/14/2022 • 54 minutes, 45 seconds
Sacred Sorrow
This year during Lent, we are diving into a very intentional journey with the spiritual practice of lament. Lament is a good and proper response when we come face to face with the brokenness in ourselves and in the world. During this holy season, we will enter into an experiment which helps us make space in our lives for lament. This week, Nicole Howe began our series, helping us craft an experiment. What do we do to avoid pain in our lives? What might God be inviting us to fast from to make room for lament? How might we deepen our communion with God and one another if we intentionally practice writing psalms of lament in this season? You can find the handout here. And if you are joining us in the experiment and are not a part of a Table, will you let us know here? We would love to support your experiment. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
3/7/2022 • 1 hour, 4 minutes, 7 seconds
Foundations: For the sake of the world
We are beginning this year walking through the five key values of The Practice Church. This week, Father Michael Sparough led us into our final value, for the sake of the world. He guided an Ignatian practice intended to help our contemplation flow into action and our action to flow into contemplation. If you are interested in joining or even hosting a Practice Table, please let us know here. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
2/18/2022 • 47 minutes, 19 seconds
Foundations: Hospitality
We are beginning this year walking through the five key values of The Practice Church. This week, Erin Lonard guided our exploration of hospitality and invited us to see hospitality not as a set of activities but as a way of being. If you are interested in joining or even hosting a Practice Table, please let us know here. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
2/13/2022 • 39 minutes, 4 seconds
Foundations: Community
We are beginning this year walking through the five key values of The Practice Church. This week, Jason guided our exploration of the value of community. This week, Jason guided us through the value of community. How are practices of community important in our shared desire to be formed by Jesus to be like Jesus for the sake of the world? If you are interested in joining or even hosting a Practice Table, please let us know here. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
2/7/2022 • 45 minutes, 33 seconds
Foundations: Formation
We are beginning this year walking through the five key values of The Practice Church. This week, Mark Scandrette invited us to consider the invitation to be formed by Jesus, and see our time in church as a "Jesus dojo." You can find a simple guide to our practice today here. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
1/31/2022 • 53 minutes, 9 seconds
Foundations: Presence
This year, we are spending time walking through the five key values of The Practice Church. This week, Nicole shared God's invitation to live tethered into the presence of God in our everyday lives. You can find a simple guide to our practice today here. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
1/25/2022 • 49 minutes, 45 seconds
Something New
In the story of Christ's baptism, we see God is up to something new, inviting us to live in a new way. God is calling us to turn away from the influences of the world and to the way of Jesus, a way oriented toward belovedness, surrender, and action. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
1/11/2022 • 58 minutes, 46 seconds
Advent: Hesed with Us
This week, we begin our Advent series, Hesed with Us. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. In this season of Advent, we explore God's hesed as it is expressed in the coming of Christ. This week, we considered God's undaunted commitment to His promises with Nicole Howe. Will you also join us as we walk through the Advent season with this gratitude practice? A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
12/20/2021 • 50 minutes, 9 seconds
Advent: Hesed with Us
This week, we begin our Advent series, Hesed with Us. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. In this season of Advent, we explore God's hesed as it is expressed in the coming of Christ. This week, Nick Benoit invites us to recognize, enjoy, and practice the generosity of God. Will you join us as we walk through this Advent season with this gratitude practice? A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
12/13/2021 • 44 minutes, 55 seconds
Practice: Noticing God's Delight in Gratitude
This guided practice of gratitude has us look back on the last 24 hours so we might notice the loyal love of God in our everyday life. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
12/6/2021 • 13 minutes, 12 seconds
Advent: Hesed with Us
This week, we begin our Advent series, Hesed with Us. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. In this season of Advent, we explore God's hesed as it is expressed in the coming of Christ. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team?
12/6/2021 • 44 minutes, 21 seconds
Practice: Hesed in Community Reflection
This guided practice is a reflection on our previous series, Hesed in Community. If God is inviting us to cultivate a hesed-shaped community, we can't leave this series behind. We want to take it deeper. How is God inviting each of us to respond to what we have heard? Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
11/26/2021 • 14 minutes, 48 seconds
Bearing with One Another
This week, we concluded our series, Hesed in Community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. Kellye Fabian-Story helped us consider how we might show hesed to those we find difficult. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Nominations for our next council are open until November 21. Join the Practice mailing list here.
11/22/2021 • 40 minutes, 53 seconds
Practice: Preparing to Listen
This guided practice was a part of our gathering in which we examined the spiritual practice of listening. In order to make room to listen, we need to make space in our own lives. We can do that by slowing down to listen to ourselves and allowing God to listen to us. This practice, helps us to make the necessary space for us to listen to those in our lives when opportunities arise. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
11/15/2021 • 6 minutes, 27 seconds
Listening into Wholeness
This week, we continued our series, Hesed in Community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. Deirdré JVR guided our exploration of the spiritual practice of listening. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Nominations for our next council are open until November 21. Join the Practice mailing list here.
11/15/2021 • 35 minutes, 43 seconds
Practice: Life in Community
This guided practice was a part of our gathering in which we examined life in community. This practice is directed toward The Practice Church community, but you can easily substitute your local church community in its place. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
11/8/2021 • 10 minutes, 18 seconds
Hesed in Community: Life in Community
This week, we continued our series, Hesed in Community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. Father Michael Sparough guided us this week as we explored life in community. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Nominations for our next council are open until November 21. Join the Practice mailing list here.
11/8/2021 • 40 minutes, 4 seconds
Hesed in Community: Soul Nourishing Friendships
This week, we continued our series, Hesed in Community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. This week, Susan Shadid guided us in an exploration of the practice of spiritual Friendships. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Join the Practice mailing list here.
10/25/2021 • 46 minutes, 21 seconds
Hesed in Community: Holy Ground Moments
This week, we continued our series looking at how we might put into practice God's invitation to be a hesed-shaped community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. This week, Sharon Swing invited us to consider how God is inviting us to create space for our souls to show themselves to one another in community. These, Sharon said, are "holy ground moments." A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Join the Practice mailing list here.
10/19/2021 • 30 minutes, 35 seconds
Hesed in Community: An Alternative Society
This week, we begin a new series looking at how we might put into practice God's invitation to be a hesed-shaped community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. This week, we Jason Feffer shared how a hesed-shaped community is a way for the Church to be an alternative society in a culture of individualism and tribalism, and we considered the cost of cultuvating such a community in our practice. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Join the Practice mailing list here.
10/11/2021 • 59 minutes, 7 seconds
Hesed in Community
This week, we begin a new series looking at how we might put into practice God's invitation to be a hesed-shaped community. Hesed is the Hebrew word which can be translated as the tangible intersection of love, commitment, and generosity. This week, we Bill Donahue guides us as we explore the Biblical basis for hesed in community. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church here. If you are committed to being a part of the local community that is The Practice Church, would you take a moment to join the Plant Team? Join the Practice mailing list here.
10/5/2021 • 40 minutes, 54 seconds
Practice: A Hesed-Shaped Community
This guided practice was a part of our gathering in which we examined God's hesed. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/20/2021 • 11 minutes, 17 seconds
A Hesed-Shaped Community
We continue our vision series looking at God's invitation for The Practice Church to be a heed-shaped community. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/20/2021 • 43 minutes, 26 seconds
Practice: Resting in God's Loyal Love
This guided practice was a part of our gathering in which we examined God's hesed. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/14/2021 • 12 minutes, 18 seconds
Hesed: God's Loyal Love
We begin a new series focused on God's invitation to The Practice Church in this season. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/14/2021 • 47 minutes, 29 seconds
Practices of the People: Storytelling
Jason Feffer concludes our Summer Series, "Practices of the People," with an exploration of storytelling as a spiritual practice. Find more info on our website. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
9/7/2021 • 53 minutes, 11 seconds
Practices of the People: Imaginative Prayer
Nicole Howe teaches on how to engage our imaginations in prayer, and we hear a story from a member of our community on how he has met God in scripture through imaginative prayer. We have a number of guided imaginative prayers that we have created as a community that we highly recommend. You can access them here. If the Practice has been meaningful on your spiritual journey, consider making a tax-deductible donation here.
8/16/2021 • 30 minutes, 46 seconds
Practices of the People: Visio Divina
Jason Feffer continues our Practices of the People series with a teaching on Visio Divina. Then, we head outside to practice Visio divina with nature. You can find a guide to the practice here. If you would like to give to the Practice Church, you may do so here.
8/9/2021 • 42 minutes, 51 seconds
Practices of the People: Doodling Prayer
Kirsten Hitchcock introduces us to the practice of doodling prayer and we hear three different stories from the community. Then, we're given space to practice doodling prayer together. If you've been encouraged by the Practice, would you consider making a tax deductible donation here?
7/19/2021 • 43 minutes, 58 seconds
Practices of the People: Silence
Jason shares an introduction to the practice of silence and we hear a story from Mark Mixter about his experience with this practice. Then, we pray in silence together. A tax-deductible gift can be given to The Practice Church at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/ Register for a Sacred Retreat at https://www.mylifeissacred.com using the code PRACTICE90 for a $39 discount.
7/12/2021 • 39 minutes, 38 seconds
What is Church? Part Two
Jason Feffer continues our series on the nature of the Church. With an examination of Acts 2, Jason considers the differences between a belief based and a practice based church. Find a guide to lectio divina and more here. If you would like to give to God's work at the Practice, you may do so here.
6/14/2021 • 51 minutes, 32 seconds
What is Church?
The first installment of a two part series called "What is Church," Bill Donahue invites us to look at five biblical metaphors for the Church: a Body, Bride, Building, Vineyard, and Family. Then, Bill leads us through a lectio divina style practice of reflecting on these images of the Church and listening for how may God be inviting us to embody the Church in this season. If the Practice has been meaningful on your Spiritual journey, consider making a tax-deductible donation here.
6/7/2021 • 51 minutes, 23 seconds
Finding Joy in Struggle
Continuing our Easter series on the practice of joy, Stephen Kelley guides us on what it might look like to have joy in the midst of pain and struggle. Then, we practice a prayer of examen looking back on how God was present to us in the midst of our everyday lives. If the Practice has been meaningful for your spiritual journey, consider giving a tax-deductible gift here.
5/17/2021 • 40 minutes, 50 seconds
Practicing Joy: Delight in God
Nick Benoit shares on the importance of delighting in the world around us as a way of delighting in God. Then, we practice together. If God has used the Practice on your spiritual journey, consider making a tax-deductible donation here.
5/3/2021 • 38 minutes, 33 seconds
Abandoned to Joy
Continuing our series on the practice of joy, Jason Feffer invites us to abandon ourselves to joy. What does it look like for us to exhibit childlike joy in our everyday lives? If God has used the Practice on your spiritual journey, consider giving a gift at www.practicetribe.com/give
4/19/2021 • 33 minutes, 36 seconds
Practicing Joy
Nicole Howe begins our Easter series called "Practicing Joy." What is authentic joy, and how might we be shaped through the practice of celebration to be joyful even in the midst of trials? If The Practice has been beneficial to your spiritual journey and you would like to give to gift, you may do so here.
4/12/2021 • 32 minutes, 28 seconds
Easter Sunday
Jason Feffer delivers an Easter Sunday message and practice. Inviting us into Mary's experience with the risen Christ, Jason helps us understand and engage with the words of Jesus to Mary, "Do not cling to me." If God has used The Practice in your life, would you consider supporting the future of The Practice Church? A tax-deductible gift can be given here.
4/6/2021 • 38 minutes, 30 seconds
Fasting as Union with God
Mimi Dixon continues our Lent series on Fasting as Feasting with God. How might fasting in the wilderness lead us deeper into intimacy with God? Mimi says that fasting in the wilderness ought to be an "expected, unavoidable part of the journey toward union with God." Then, Mimi leads us through a prayer practice with a labyrinth. If The Practice Church is your home we encourage you to support it as you can. If God has used The Practice on your Spiritual journey, would you consider supporting the future of The Practice Church? A tax-deductible gift can be given at https://www.practicetribe.com/give/
3/22/2021 • 40 minutes, 28 seconds
Fasting as Repentance
Casey Tygrett continues our series on Fasting as a way of Feasting on God. While this practice is often misunderstood, it is foundational in our formation in Christ's likeness. Practiced rightly, fasting is actually feasting on God! Fasting also reveals our limitations and guides us to repentance. If God has used The Practice in your life, would you consider supporting the future of The Practice Church? A tax-deductible gift can be given here.
3/15/2021 • 34 minutes, 25 seconds
Fasting in Lament
Eric Case continues our Lenten journey at the Practice Church, "Fasting: Feasting on God." While this practice is often misunderstood, it is foundational in our Spiritual formation. How might our fasts help us to enter the sorrow of God? If God has used the Practice on your Spiritual journey, consider giving a gift here.
3/8/2021 • 42 minutes, 1 second
Fasting: Feasting on God
Jason Feffer begins our Lenten journey at the Practice Church, "Fasting: Feasting on God." While this practice is often misunderstood, it is foundational in our Spiritual formation. Jason reminds us that when practiced rightly, fasting is actually feasting on God! Then, Jason helps us craft a practice of fasting for this season of Lent. If God has used The Practice in your life, would you consider supporting the future of The Practice Church? A tax-deductible gift can be given here.
2/22/2021 • 50 minutes, 17 seconds
Desiring Deeply: Freedom
Nicole Howe closes out our series "Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment." After exploring the final result of Christian detachment, interior freedom, we then practice a prayer of discerning where God is inviting us to experience deeper levels of true freedom. Find more info on our website. If the Practice has been meaningful in your spiritual journey, consider giving a donation here.
2/15/2021 • 39 minutes, 13 seconds
A Detachment Examen
As we continue our series Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment, we invite you to make room in your day for a practice of the Examen. In this practice, we review our day with Jesus, paying attention to what we notice and having a conversation with the Lord. Will you join us in this practice?
2/6/2021 • 11 minutes, 5 seconds
Desiring Deeply: Disordered Attachments
Continuing our series, Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment, Jason Feffer helps us explore what happens when our desires run amuck. What can we do when we struggle to live in the freedom of detachment? View more information on our website here. If you would like to give to the Practice Church, you can do so here.
1/26/2021 • 49 minutes, 54 seconds
Desiring Deeply: Holy Desire
Joan Kelley continues our series "Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment" with an exploration of holy desire. What role does desire play in our spiritual journey? How do our deepest desires help us uncover God's loving will for our lives? After Joan's teaching, we practice a prayer of discerning our desires in God's presence. If you would like to support what God is doing through The Practice Church, visit our website.
1/18/2021 • 38 minutes, 51 seconds
Embodied Prayer of Detachment
Father Michael Sparough leads us in an embodied practice of detachment. Find the entire teaching here.
1/12/2021 • 14 minutes, 5 seconds
Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment
Father Michael Sparough begins a new teaching series titled "Desiring Deeply: Freedom and Detachment." We are reminded of the truth that Jesus invites us to hold all things with open hands in order to find the fulfillment of our deepest longings in God alone. Then, we practice a powerful embodied prayer of detachment. Find more info on our website here.
1/12/2021 • 47 minutes, 6 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Advent
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (10:01), and the last for evening (14:00). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we embrace the season of Advent. How might we wait on the Lord in preparation for Christmas?
12/20/2020 • 23 minutes, 8 seconds
Advent: Hoping for Home
Marion Medina continues our Advent journey as we listen to the longings revealed in this season. What is percolating below the surface? How are we being invited into a deeper life with God, into our heart's truest home? For more info on our website here.
12/15/2020 • 37 minutes, 13 seconds
Advent Lament
Advent is especially needed during a year as painful as this one. In our Advent series, Jason Feffer explores the invitation to lean into all this year has been, to find our longing in it, and to wait for Jesus. Find more info on our website.
12/7/2020 • 55 minutes, 7 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Advent
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:23), and the last for evening (15:19). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we embrace the season of Advent. How might we wait on the Lord in preparation for Christmas?
12/6/2020 • 24 minutes, 11 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Advent
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:00), and the last for evening (11:56). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we embrace the season of Advent. How might we wait on the Lord in preparation for Christmas?
11/29/2020 • 21 minutes, 4 seconds
Love and Incarnational Listening
Ian Simkins concludes our “Love and…” series. Ian reminds us that love begins with listening, the kind of listening that not only hears others but is incarnationally present to them. Find more info on our website.
11/17/2020 • 44 minutes, 24 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:54), and the last for evening (12:52). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
11/15/2020 • 20 minutes, 28 seconds
Love and Chaos
Nicole Howe reminds us of how God can bring order out of chaos. When everything in us and around us seems to be swirling out of control, we can rest in Our Creator who ordered the whole world, the cosmos, with beauty, goodness, and truth. In our practice, we lean into the chaos while also inviting God's creative Spirit to meet us and bring cosmic order. Find more info on our website.
11/10/2020 • 41 minutes, 1 second
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:54), and the last for evening (12:52). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
11/8/2020 • 19 minutes, 34 seconds
A Practice of Discernment
As our community discerns the way forward, we offer this practice of discernment. In this prayer, we will listen to the Holy Spirit while letting go of what stands in the way of following God fully, and we will employ the Ignatian concepts of consolation and desolation as we listen with loving attention.
11/5/2020 • 17 minutes, 54 seconds
A Practice Update
Jason Feffer shares two updates about the future of the Practice community, then we lean into God in prayer. Find more information on our website here.
11/2/2020 • 43 minutes, 27 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:00), and the last for evening (11:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
11/1/2020 • 19 minutes, 36 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:04), and the last for evening (15:02). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
10/25/2020 • 22 minutes, 5 seconds
Love and Fear
Jason Feffer continues our series on Love with a look at Love and Fear. In a season that is full of fear and anxiety, how might we allow love to complete its work in us and drive out fear? Then, we practice a welcoming prayer through our fear. Find more info on our website here.
10/20/2020 • 44 minutes, 52 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (9:38), and the last for evening (13:36). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
10/18/2020 • 18 minutes, 34 seconds
Love and Prophetic Witness
Stephen Kelly continues our series on Love with a look at Daniel and God’s invitation for us to be a prophetic witness in this world. How might we speak truth to power in love during this divisive season? Then, Jason Feffer leads us through a prayer of reflection for how we might actually put this into practice. Find more info on our website here.
10/13/2020 • 52 minutes, 19 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month.
10/11/2020 • 18 minutes, 38 seconds
Love and Admitting I Might Be Wrong
Adele Calhoun guides us through the invitation to admit that we might be wrong. In this season of hardship and division, many of us have a tendency to get stuck listening to those with whom we already agree while trying to prove others wrong. Yet, the invitation of Christ is to be willing to consider that we may not have everything right. Adele leads us through the loving idea of admitting that we might be wrong. Then, we practice a reflection and a breath prayer. Find more information on our website here.
10/6/2020 • 36 minutes, 37 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (9:38), and the last for evening (13:36). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
10/4/2020 • 23 minutes, 15 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:57), and the last for evening (12:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
9/27/2020 • 20 minutes, 53 seconds
Love and Downward Mobility
Jason Feffer continues our series on the self-emptying love of Christ and how it leads to a posture and lifestyle of downward mobility. Then, we practice an embodied prayer of surrender. Find more info on our website.
9/21/2020 • 41 minutes, 3 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:42), and the last for evening (15:42). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
9/20/2020 • 19 minutes, 55 seconds
Love and...
Jason Feffer begins a series called “Love and…” in which we look at how God is inviting us to love our neighbors in the midst of a divisive season. Jason reminds us of the great commandment of Jesus: to love God by loving our neighbors. Then, we practice an imaginative prayer as a way of experiencing God’s deep love for us, which leads us to love others. Find more info on our website.
9/15/2020 • 40 minutes, 24 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (11:55). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
9/13/2020 • 19 minutes, 55 seconds
Practice Daily Office: The Sermon on the Mount
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:42), and the last for evening (15:42). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series, we focus on the Sermon on the Mount. How might Jesus form us as we soak in this important teaching for three month. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
9/6/2020 • 23 minutes, 41 seconds
Embodied Spirituality: Touch
Eric Case continues our series on embodied spirituality and explores the connection between touch and blessing. In a season when physical touch may be limited, how might we bless those around us by being present to them in a variety of ways? Jason Feffer then leads through a practice of preparation in which we listen for who God is inviting us to bless. Find more info on our website here.
8/25/2020 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
Hearing Practice
In August of 2020, we are focusing on embodied spirituality. Each week, we engaged a practice based on one of the five senses. In this practice, we explore the sense of hearing. After grounding ourselves in silence and God's love, we spend time in gratitude for what we hear. Then we pay attention to what we hear around us, what we hear within us, and what we hear from the Lord. Will you join us in this practice?
8/14/2020 • 19 minutes, 4 seconds
Embodied Spirituality: Sight
Eric Case kicks off a series on Embodied Spirituality by asking the question, “How do our senses help lead us toward or away from God’s loving presence?” Beginning with our sense of sight, Eric explores how our eyes can both open us to God’s presence all around us, and sometimes cause us to live by sight, rather than faith. Then, we practice a prayer with images, asking God to open our eyes to the stories that are deeper than our eyes can see. Find more info on our website. Sign up for our email list here.
8/11/2020 • 37 minutes, 45 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Voice of the Good Shepherd
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (14:10). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on listening to Jesus. We will reflect on scripture and listen for the voice of the Good Shepherd. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
7/27/2020 • 22 minutes, 7 seconds
Walking with Jesus: Mercy Prayer
Jason Feffer continues our series on Walking Prayer and invites us to turn our attention outward. What is God's desire for our neighborhoods, and how can we play a role in God's plan to renew all things? You can use this guide for the Mercy Walking Prayer, and find more information on our website.
7/21/2020 • 16 minutes, 42 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Freedom in Christ
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:24), and the last for evening (11:19). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on freedom in Christ. We will reflect on passages about freedom and pray prayers to help us live in the freedom offered in Christ. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
7/20/2020 • 17 minutes, 38 seconds
Walking with Jesus
Jason Feffer invites us into the practice of walking prayer. This ordinary practice opens us up to God's presence in the seemingly mundane moments of life. When we walk beside Jesus, we can learn to hear God's voice more clearly in our everyday lives. Use this guide for the practice of walking with Jesus. Find more information on our website!
7/13/2020 • 19 minutes, 56 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Freedom in Christ
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:51). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on freedom in Christ. We will reflect on passages about freedom and pray prayers to help us live in the freedom offered in Christ. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
7/13/2020 • 19 minutes, 34 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Voice of the Good Shepherd
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (14:10). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on listening to Jesus. We will reflect on scripture and listen for the voice of the Good Shepherd. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
7/6/2020 • 22 minutes, 7 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Freedom in Christ
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:51). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on freedom in Christ. We will reflect on passages about freedom and pray prayers to help us live in the freedom offered in Christ. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
7/6/2020 • 18 minutes, 10 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Freedom in Christ
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:58), and the last for evening (11:56). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on freedom in Christ. We will reflect on passages about freedom and pray prayers to help us live in the freedom offered in Christ. http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
6/29/2020 • 19 minutes, 39 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Kingdom of Justice
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (11:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on the justice of God's Kingdom. The morning prayer includes a reflection on a passage from the Old Testament prophets. The midday prayer comes from a person of color, and the evening prayer is a Psalm of lament. How might these prayers open us to be a people of justice in the Kingdom of God? http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
6/22/2020 • 17 minutes, 33 seconds
Cloister in Place
Vivianne David teaches us to notice the presence of God in the ordinary objects of everyday life. She then guides us through a Visio Divina style practice in which we use our keys as a way of becoming curious about how God may be speaking to us in something we normally overlook. Find more info on our website.
6/15/2020 • 39 minutes, 4 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Kingdom of Justice
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (11:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on the justice of God's Kingdom. The morning prayer includes a reflection on a passage from the Old Testament prophets. The midday prayer comes from a person of color, and the evening prayer is a Psalm of lament. How might these prayers open us to be a people of justice in the Kingdom of God? http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
6/15/2020 • 18 minutes, 31 seconds
Lament and Confession for Racism
On June 7, 2020, we paused for a night of lament and confession. We lament the injustices woven into the fabric of our country for centuries, and we confess the sins of our nation as well as our own sin. It is not easy, but it is absolutely necessary. Find more information on our website.
6/8/2020 • 37 minutes, 34 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Kingdom of Justice
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (9:51), and the last for evening (13:49). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. In this series we focus on the justice of God's Kingdom. The morning prayer includes a reflection on a passage from the Old Testament prophets. The midday prayer comes from a person of color, and the evening prayer is a Psalm of lament. How might these prayers open us to be a people of justice in the Kingdom of God? http://practicetribe.com/daily-office/
6/8/2020 • 19 minutes, 22 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:58), and the last for evening (15:56). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we continue a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
6/1/2020 • 23 minutes, 52 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:58), and the last for evening (15:56). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we continue a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
5/25/2020 • 24 minutes, 1 second
Acts of Service Listening Prayer
In this practice, we slow down and listen to the Lord. Who is God inviting us to serve today? How can we serve her or him, and as we do, how might these seeds of serving cultivate pockets of the Kingdom in our world?
5/18/2020 • 11 minutes, 27 seconds
Serving the Kingdom
We continue our Easter journey at The Practice exploring the invitation of Jesus to partner with him in bringing the kingdom of God. How is God inviting us to live the kingdom into every corner of human existence? Jason Feffer challenges us to cultivate pockets of the kingdom through the spiritual practice of service. Find more information on our website.
5/18/2020 • 38 minutes, 17 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (11:58), and the last for evening (15:56). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we begin a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
5/18/2020 • 23 minutes, 55 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (10:36), and the last for evening (14:34). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we begin a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
5/11/2020 • 20 minutes, 53 seconds
A Kingdom Examen
The good news of Jesus is an invitation to live a life with him in the kingdom of God. This particular prayer of Examen helps us review our day in the loving presence of the Lord, listening to how we have chosen to live in the kingdom of God or the kingdoms of this world. View more on our website.
5/4/2020 • 15 minutes, 9 seconds
The Kingdom of God or the Kingdoms of this World
We continue our Easter journey at The Practice exploring the invitation of Jesus to live in the kingdom of God. What kingdoms are you living in? Are you submitting the area of control in your life to the kingdom of God or the kingdoms of this world? Jason Feffer challenges us to practice a daily examen and listen to God as we seek to become people who live more fully in God's kingdom. View more on our website.
5/4/2020 • 38 minutes, 4 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:59), and the last for evening (11:57). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we begin a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Fran Pratt. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
5/4/2020 • 18 minutes, 54 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:59), and the last for evening (11:57). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we begin a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Douglas Kaine McKelvey. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/27/2020 • 20 minutes, 1 second
The Invitation to Life in the Kingdom
Father Michael Sparough helps us see how Jesus came to bring the Kingdom of God right into the midst of the clashing kingdoms of this world, the flesh, and the devil. He then leads us through a meditation on The Two Standards, in which we join Jesus as he is tempted in the wilderness and as he reveals himself to his disciple Thomas in a tangible way. View more information on our website.
4/21/2020 • 50 minutes, 8 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:59), and the last for evening (11:57). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. This week, we begin a new rhythm, carrying the same prayers with us through the entire week. How might we experience the presence of the Lord more deeply as we steep ourselves in the same passage and prayers throughout the week? This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Fran Pratt. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/20/2020 • 18 minutes, 54 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (10:12), and the last for evening (14:11). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Walter Brueggemann. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/17/2020 • 20 minutes, 8 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (9:24), and the last for evening (13:23). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Walter Brueggemann. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/16/2020 • 19 minutes, 1 second
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:59), and the last for evening (11:57). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Walter Brueggemann. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/15/2020 • 17 minutes, 54 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:22), and the last for evening (11:21). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Walter Brueggemann. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/14/2020 • 16 minutes, 59 seconds
Practice Daily Office
This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:20), and the last for evening (11:18). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Walter Brueggemann. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/13/2020 • 17 minutes, 15 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Sunday, April 12
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:55). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Fran Pratt. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/12/2020 • 18 minutes, 11 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Saturday, April 11
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:55). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/11/2020 • 15 minutes, 55 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Friday, April 10
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:00), and the last for evening (11:58). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Pamela Hawkins' The Awkward Season: Prayers for Lent. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/10/2020 • 18 minutes, 14 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Thursday, April 9
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (8:38), and the last for evening (12:37). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Pamela Hawkins' The Awkward Season: Prayers for Lent. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/9/2020 • 18 minutes, 53 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Wednesday, April 8
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:55), and the last for evening (11:54). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Pamela Hawkins' The Awkward Season: Prayers for Lent. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/8/2020 • 18 minutes, 10 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Tuesday, April 7
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:57), and the last for evening (11:57). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Pamela Hawkins' The Awkward Season: Prayers for Lent. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/7/2020 • 18 minutes, 11 seconds
Letting Go of Expectations
As the final night of our series on The Invitation to Let Go, Jason Feffer invited us into the story of the Triumphal Entry of Jesus. Just like those in Jerusalem, we all have expectations for who God is and what it means to follow Christ. Yet, Christ often exceeds our expectations and defies our ideas about Him. How might we begin to let go of our expectations and receive the graces God offers? View it on our blog here.
4/6/2020 • 28 minutes, 19 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Monday, April 6
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:56), and the last for evening (11:55). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Pamela Hawkins' The Awkward Season: Prayers for Lent. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/6/2020 • 18 minutes, 14 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Friday, April 3
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:34), and the last for evening (11:32). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Ted Loder's Guerrillas of Grace. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/3/2020 • 0
Practice Daily Office: Thursday, April 2
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:36), and the last for evening (11:33). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Ted Loder's Guerrillas of Grace. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/2/2020 • 0
Practice Daily Office: Wednesday, April 1
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:37), and the last for evening (11:36). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Ted Loder's Guerrillas of Grace. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
4/1/2020 • 16 minutes, 47 seconds
The Invitation to Let Go
On 3.29.20, Kellye Fabian shared a Lenten message of letting go. How do our hearts, souls, minds, and bodies all work together in the act of surrendering everything to God? View it on the blog here.
3/31/2020 • 51 minutes, 41 seconds
Practice Daily Office: Tuesday, March 31
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:36), and the last for evening (11:35). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Ted Loder's Guerrillas of Grace. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/31/2020 • 16 minutes, 48 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Monday, March 30
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:37), and the last for evening (11:36). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer comes from Ted Loder's Guerrillas of Grace. http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/30/2020 • 16 minutes, 50 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Friday, March 27
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (6:53), and the last for evening (11:53). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer was written by our very own Susan Faye Ness http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/27/2020 • 17 minutes, 42 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Thursday, March 26
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (6:52), and the last for evening (10:49). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer was written by our very own Susan Faye Ness http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/26/2020 • 16 minutes, 23 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Wednesday, March 25
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:27), and the last for evening (12:27). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer was written by our very own Susan Faye Ness http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/25/2020 • 18 minutes, 16 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Tuesday, March 24
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:25), and the last for evening (11:22). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer was written by our very own Susan Faye Ness http://dev.practicetribe.com/dailyoffice/
3/24/2020 • 16 minutes, 56 seconds
The Practice Daily Office: Monday, March 23
In this season of disruption, we invite you to join us in an intentional rhythm of prayer. How might our days be grounded more deeply in God’s presence if we pause each morning, midday, and evening for silence, scripture, and prayer? This resource includes three prayers: one for morning, another for midday (7:54), and the last for evening (13:07). The prayers will follow a consistent pattern each week with new scriptures every day. During the weekend, we encourage you to return to one of the prayers from earlier in the week that you found meaningful. This practice of the Daily Office will help us live more fully in God’s loving presence as we navigate this time of fear, anxiety, and uncertainty. The midday prayer was written by our very own Susan Faye Ness
3/23/2020 • 18 minutes, 57 seconds
Finders Weepers, Losers Keepers
On 3.22.20, Mimi Dixon shared a Lenten message of letting go. How might we let go and find our need for safety and significance in Christ? She then guided an embodied practice of surrender. View it on the blog here.
3/23/2020 • 45 minutes, 50 seconds
Letting Go of the Lies We Tell Ourselves
Sunday night, we continued our journey through the season of Lent, The Invitation to Let Go. Ted Harro taught us that our “emotions are the truth serum to our beliefs,” which help us uncover the narratives that we believe about God, others, and ourselves. These narratives ultimately shape the way we think and act in the world around us. Then, Ted invited us to place ourselves in the narrative of Psalm 23, where the Good Shepherd leads us by soul-quieting waters and comforts us amidst our fears.
3/10/2020 • 46 minutes, 39 seconds
The Invitation to Let Go
Sunday night, we began our journey through the season of Lent, The Invitation to Let Go. Jason reminded us that the core of our identity is rooted in our belovedness in Christ, but there are many voices surrounding us that compete with God’s voice of love. Then, Jason invited us to craft an experiment for the next 40 days that will help us to begin letting go of any false voices that distract us from God’s voice of love.
3/3/2020 • 1 hour, 1 minute, 36 seconds
Liturgy Lesson: Benediction
During our series, Living the Liturgy, we asked members from our community to share why we include certain elements in our practice of worship. In this Liturgy Lesson, Erin Lonard shares why every gathering ends in a Benediction. Would you listen and join us in this practice?
2/22/2020 • 4 minutes, 58 seconds
Liturgy Lesson: Prayers of the People
During our series, Living the Liturgy, we asked members from our community to share why we include certain elements in our practice of worship. In this Liturgy Lesson, Susan Ness shares why we include Prayers of the People. Would you listen and join us in this practice?
2/22/2020 • 8 minutes, 30 seconds
Liturgy Lesson: Passing the Peace
During our series, Living the Liturgy, we asked members from our community to share why we include certain elements in our practice of worship. In this Liturgy Lesson, Kirsten Hitchcock shares why Passing of the Peace is a part of every gathering. Would you listen and join us in this practice?
2/22/2020 • 3 minutes, 8 seconds
Liturgy Lessons: Confession and Assurance
During our series, Living the Liturgy, we asked members from our community to share why we include certain elements in our practice of worship. In this Liturgy Lesson, Ted Harro shares why every gathering includes a confession and assurance. Would you listen and join us in this practice?
2/22/2020 • 7 minutes, 44 seconds
Living the Liturgy: Spiritual Practices
On 2.16.2020, Jason Feffer explored why every gathering includes a spiritual practice. This is the fourth and final week in a series focused on the core elements of our gatherings.
2/18/2020 • 43 minutes, 8 seconds
Living the Liturgy: Scripture
On 2.9.2020, we had the opportunity to be guided by Skye Jethani as we examined the importance of scripture in our gathering and our journey with Jesus. Skye challenged us to see scripture as a window, to allow the parables and miracles of the Gospels to change the way we see the world. This is the third week in a series focused on the core elements of our gatherings.
2/10/2020 • 52 minutes, 1 second
Another Kind of Life: Afternoon Q&A
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is the afternoon Q&A.
2/3/2020 • 27 minutes, 43 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is Spiritual Formation part 2
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part two of the fourth session, What is Spiritual Formation?
2/3/2020 • 26 minutes, 20 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is Spiritual Formation? part 1
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part one of the fourth session, What is my Spiritual Formation?
2/3/2020 • 13 minutes, 26 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of Self? part 2
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part two of the third session, What is my Picture of Self?
2/3/2020 • 22 minutes, 3 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of Self? part 1
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part one of the third session, What is my Picture of Self?
2/3/2020 • 26 minutes, 20 seconds
Another Kind of Life: Morning Q&A
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is the morning Q&A.
2/3/2020 • 22 minutes, 12 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of the Gospel? part 2
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part two of the second session, What is my Picture of the Gospel?
2/3/2020 • 21 minutes, 8 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of the Gospel? part 1
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part one of the second session, What is my Picture of the Gospel?
2/3/2020 • 21 minutes, 19 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of God? part 2
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part two of the first session, What is my Picture of God?
2/3/2020 • 32 minutes, 48 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of God? part 1
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part one of the first session, What is my Picture of God?
2/3/2020 • 12 minutes, 19 seconds
Another Kind of Life: What is my Picture of God? (Small Group Edit)
On 11.16.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us explore the invitation of Jesus to live another kind of life. This is part one of the first session, What is my Picture of God?
2/3/2020 • 32 minutes, 47 seconds
Living the Liturgy: Worship
On January 19th, Sam Tinken helped us explore why we worship the way we do at The Practice. This is the second week in a series focused on the core elements of our gatherings.
1/21/2020 • 48 minutes, 15 seconds
Living the Liturgy: Eucharist
On 1.12.2020, Brian Zahnd joined us to share why the Eucharist is the central point of our service. This is the first week in a series focused on the core elements of our gatherings.
1/14/2020 • 48 minutes, 16 seconds
Invitation to be Present with God
On 12.15.19, Sam Tinken continued our journey of practicing the presence of God this Advent season. How does the practice of waiting help us to find meaning in the moment?
12/17/2019 • 45 minutes, 32 seconds
Invitation to be Present with God
On 12.8.19, Jason Feffer invited us to the practice expressed in the life of Brother Lawrence, the practice of the presence of God. How might we live fully present with God in our everyday life? http://www.practicetribe.com/12-8-19-invitati…present-with-god/
12/10/2019 • 45 minutes, 31 seconds
Invitation to Doubt
On 11.24.19, Eric Case helped us explore God's invitation to doubt. What if faith and doubt are not opposed to one another? What of doubt is an inevitable part of the faith journey? http://www.practicetribe.com/11-24-19-invitation-to-doubt/
11/26/2019 • 56 minutes, 39 seconds
Invitation to Wrestle with God
On 11.17.19, Carolyn Arends guided us in song, teaching, and practice, as we examine God's invitation to wrestle. How can we have a faith that no only survives, but thrives in the midst of unanswered questions. https://wp.me/p5LsbB-12Z
11/19/2019 • 52 minutes, 32 seconds
Invitation to Respond (part 2)
On 11.3.19, we continued our series Invitation to Stillness and Response with a panel discussion. Brad and Ben shared their stories of how God has been inviting them into the work of reconciliation in the world. We then examined our stories and noticed where our hearts are broken by the injustice of our world as a way of listening to God's invitation in our lives.
11/5/2019 • 52 minutes, 40 seconds
Invitation to Respond (part 1)
On 10.27.19 we continued our series Invitation to Stillness and Response with David Bailey. David helped us explore what it might look like for us to be a reconciling community in such a time as this. He then guided an inventory practice to help examine how we use our time, talents, and treasures.
10/29/2019 • 54 minutes, 51 seconds
An Abiding Contemplation
This is the abiding practice guided by Phileena Heuertz on 10.13.19. It is a part of our Stillness and Response journey, and we invite you to practice this contemplation daily as we seek to cultivate an inner stillness in the Lord's presence as we respond to an invitation to join God's kingdom work in the world.
10/14/2019 • 18 minutes, 29 seconds
Invitation to Stillness (part 2)
On 10.13.19, Phileena Heuertz continued our series, Stillness and Response. Phileena shared the importance of cultivating an inner stillness to carry with us as we respond to an invitation to join God's kingdom work in the world. She then guided us in an abiding practice of stilling ourselves in the presence of God.
10/14/2019 • 46 minutes, 15 seconds
An Outward Examen
This is the Examen practice guided by Father Michael on 10.6.19. It is a part of our Stillness and Response journey, and we invite you to practice this Examen daily as we seek to discern the Lord's invitation to join the kingdom work in the world and cultivate a present spirit in the midst of our response.
10/8/2019 • 15 minutes, 58 seconds
Invitation to Stillness (part 1)
On 10.6.19, Father Michael Sparough started a four-week journey of stillness and response. As we seek to join God's redemptive work in the world, how can we remain present to the Holy Spirit to we can discern where God is inviting us to respond and remain present as we respond? http://www.practicetribe.com/10-6-19-invitation-to-stillness/
10/8/2019 • 51 minutes, 58 seconds
Invitation to find solidarity with one another
On 9.22.2019, Jason Feffer guided The Practice community to consider how God might be inviting us to be a space of belonging and hospitality. http://www.practicetribe.com/9-22-19-invitation-to-find-solidarity-with-one-another/
9/23/2019 • 41 minutes, 54 seconds
Invitation to find solidarity with Jesus
On 9.15.19, Adele Calhoun guided us as we sought to make meaning of our experiences through the lens of Christ's life. She guided us in the following questions. What narratives and slogans have shaped my life? What fears have authored my story? What is the deeper Exodus story behind my roles, titles, degrees, successes, losses, joy, etc. How did I get from somewhere to somewhere else? Where have I had moments when I felt the Spirit descend on me and affirm me in a calling or direction? (Matthew 3:13-17) When was I in a time of testing and tempted to take control of my life rather than trust God? (Luke 4:1-13) What are my wilderness seasons? How did God work in these for my good? My growth? And His glory? (Luke 4:1-13) Where have people figuratively tried to throw me off a cliff? (Luke 4:14-30) What are my mounts of Transfiguration? (Mark 9:2-10) Where have I experienced betrayal? (Matthew 26:14-16, 47-50) When have I had mini-gardens of Gethsemane? (Matthew 26:36-46) When have I died on my own mini-crosses? (John 19:16-37) What are resurrection moments in life? (John 20:1-18) http://www.practicetribe.com/9-15-19-invitati…arity-with-jesus/
9/18/2019 • 35 minutes, 20 seconds
Practice Resources: As I Recall Meditations
In this episode, we have a conversation with Casey Tygrett. Casey's recent book, As I Recall, examines of the role of memory in our spiritual formation. In addition to the book, Casey has created six guided meditations to help us hold our memories in the presence of Christ for the purpose of our formation. As an incredible gift, Casey has offered the meditations to our community for free using the promo code: PRACTICE TRIBE As I Recall Meditations - https://www.caseytygrett.com/meditations Use the promo code PRACTICETRIBE to receive the meditations for free. Casey Tygrett - https://www.caseytygrett.com As I Recall - https://www.amazon.com/As-Recall-Discovering-Memories-Spiritual/dp/0830846522 Becoming Curious - https://www.amazon.com/Becoming-Curious-Spiritual-Practice-Questions/dp/0830846271
8/13/2019 • 54 minutes, 11 seconds
Practice Resources: Field Guides for the Way
In this episode, we have a conversation with Kristen Kludt and Stephanie Jenkins, co-creators of a wonderful retreat-in-a-box resource called Field Guides for the Way. Field Guides for the Way - https://www.fieldguidesfortheway.com Use the promo code PRACTICE10 to receive 10% off any orders until July 28, 2019. Kristen Leigh Kludt - http://www.kristenleighkludt.com A Good Way Through - https://www.amazon.com/Good-Way-Through-Journey-Disappointment/dp/1537068067?SubscriptionId=0ENGV10E9K9QDNSJ5C82&tag=&linkCode=xm2&camp=2025&creative=165953&creativeASIN=1537068067
7/18/2019 • 33 minutes, 28 seconds
Invitation to Retreat
On 6.9.19, Gail Donahue and Joan Kelley helped us listening for God's invitation to a rhythm of retreat this season. Gail offered important, practical guidance for engaging this practice, and Joan guided a practice of discerning how God is personally inviting us into retreat. A link to download the handouts referenced in the podcast can be found here.
6/10/2019 • 57 minutes, 13 seconds
Invitation to Retreat
ON 6.2.2019, Ruth Haley Barton guided a night of exploring how God may be inviting us into a rhythm of retreat in this season.
6/3/2019 • 52 minutes, 31 seconds
Wisdom from our memories
On 5.19.19, Casey Tygrett guided us through the important role our memories play in the formation of wisdom. “To be ready for what is to come,” he said, “we are invited by God’s Spirit to learn from where we have already been.” For more on this important topic, check out Casey's recent book As I Recall: Discovering the Place of Memories in Our Spiritual Life.
5/21/2019 • 40 minutes, 18 seconds
The Beauty of Your Identity in Christ
On 5.5.19, Sibyl Towner joined us to help us explore how we might lay down the false narratives we have adopted from our brokenness and receive the beautiful truth of our identity in Christ.
5/7/2019 • 54 minutes, 3 seconds
Lovingkindness Contemplation
On 4.28.19, Chris Heuertz guided us in an examination of why we engage contemplative practices and led us in a lovingkindness contemplation.
4/30/2019 • 39 minutes, 31 seconds
Listening to God Like Children
On 4.14.19, Kirsten asked how we might engage God with our whole selves (bodies, hearts, and heads) in the same way children do. https://wp.me/p5LsbB-11M
4/16/2019 • 27 minutes, 55 seconds
Listening to God in Anxiety
On 3.31.19, Nader Sahyouni guided us in a thoughtful and grace-filled examination of anxiety. How might God be inviting us to respond in prayer to anxious seasons? For the full recap and prayer prompts visit http://www.practicetribe.com/anxiety/.
4/1/2019 • 45 minutes, 51 seconds
Listening to God in Sorrow
On 3.24.19, Jason Feffer explored how we might listen to God in the midst of our sorrow. How does God redeem our sorrow for the sake of our formation?
3/25/2019 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Practice Resources: A New Liturgy
From time to time, we will be sharing a conversation with someone who is offering a resource to help us walk and work with Jesus in everyday life. In this episode, we had a conversation with Aaron Niequist. Aaron, with a group of people, started The Practice. He is also the creator of A New Liturgy, a project designed to create a sacred space in the midst of everyday life using music and scripture. In this conversation, we talk about the 7th liturgy, Lament. Below are links to A New Liturgy and the Practice series we discussed. A New Liturgy - https://www.anewliturgy.com/#about Why Do We Lament? with Jonathan Martin - https://wp.me/p5LsbB-DI What is Biblical Lament? with Curtis Miller - https://wp.me/p5LsbB-DN How Can I Lament? with Jenna Perrine - https://wp.me/p5LsbB-DY
3/12/2019 • 22 minutes, 33 seconds
Listening to God in Repentance
On 3.10.19, Kimberly Pelletier guided us through an examination of repentance. What unique invitation to repent might Jesus be extending to us this Lenten season?
3/11/2019 • 48 minutes, 7 seconds
Listening in an Age of Distraction - Listening in Our Tears
On 3.2.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us cultivate a listening life and live more fully in God's presence. This is the final talk of the day, Listening in Our Tears. For more information about the conference, including an individual and group reflection guide visit http://www.practicetribe.com/listening/
3/9/2019 • 40 minutes, 36 seconds
Listening in an Age of Distraction - Listening Where We Live
On 3.2.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us cultivate a listening life and live more fully in God's presence. This is the third talk of the day, Listening Where We Live. For more information about the conference, including an individual and group reflection guide visit http://www.practicetribe.com/listening/
3/9/2019 • 38 minutes, 25 seconds
Listening in an Age of Distraction - Listening in Our Longings
On 3.2.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us cultivate a listening life and live more fully in God's presence. This is the second talk of the day, Listening in Our Longings. For more information about the conference, including an individual and group reflection guide visit http://www.practicetribe.com/listening/
3/9/2019 • 35 minutes, 57 seconds
Listening in an Age of Distraction - Listening is Our Key
On 3.2.19, The Practice co-hosted a conference with Renovaré to help us cultivate a listening life and live more fully in God's presence. This is the first talk of the day. Due to some technical issues, the first few minutes were not captured. Before you listen, you will find it helpful to read Deuteronomy 6:4-9 For more information about the conference, including an individual and group reflection guide visit http://www.practicetribe.com/listening/
3/9/2019 • 31 minutes, 16 seconds
The Gift of Presence
On 3.3.19, Trevor Hudson and Lacy Borgo guided an exploration into the gift of presence. It will be helpful to engage the practices in this podcast with a clementine and a friend.
3/4/2019 • 44 minutes, 55 seconds
Listening to God in Simplicity
On 2.17.19, Jason Feffer taught about the spiritual practice of simplicity and helped us craft an experiment in simplicity.
2/19/2019 • 50 minutes, 32 seconds
The practice of simplicity
On 2.10.19 Ashlee Eiland helped us examine our need for inner simplicity.
2/12/2019 • 42 minutes, 35 seconds
A base camp of spiritual practices
On 1.27.19, Jason Feffer introduced the concept of a base camp of spiritual practices. How might we order our lives in a way that honors our unique creation and helps us live the with God life?
1/28/2019 • 57 minutes, 15 seconds
The Mystery of Advent
On 12.9.18, Sam Tinken invited us to open our hearts to the mystery of Advent. You can find the image used in the practice of Visio Divina here http://www.practicetribe.com/the-birth-of-jesus-luke-21-20/
12/10/2018 • 1 hour, 31 minutes, 13 seconds
Advent Waiting
On 12.2.18, Jason Feffer guided a practice to help us wait for the coming of Christ this Advent.
12/4/2018 • 37 minutes, 9 seconds
Listening to God in Rest
On 11.18.18, Keri Wyatt Kent guided us in an invitation to a simple Sabbath rhythm.
11/19/2018 • 47 minutes, 28 seconds
Listening to God in Rest
On 11.11.2018, Casey Tygrett explored the invitation to practice Sabbath not because we have to, but because we are free.
11/12/2018 • 44 minutes, 58 seconds
Listening to God in Prayer
On 10.28.2018, Jason Feffer explored listening to God in prayer and guided a practice of listening.
10/29/2018 • 46 minutes, 28 seconds
Listening to God in Prayer: The Examen
On 10.21.18, Father Michael introduced a particular Examen in which we focused on a virtue or a vice in our practice of the Examen.
10/22/2018 • 46 minutes, 3 seconds
Listening to God in Scripture: Lectio Divina
On 10.7.18, James Bryan Smith taught and guided us through the practice Lectio Divina.
10/8/2018 • 35 minutes, 52 seconds
Listening to God in Scripture: Sacred Questions
On 9.30.18 Kellye Fabian guided us in a practice of listening to the questions that arise within us as we read scripture.
10/2/2018 • 38 minutes, 12 seconds
Listening to God in Community: Listening Groups
On 9.16.18, Jason Feffer introduced the practice of listening groups.
9/17/2018 • 35 minutes, 33 seconds
Listening to God in Community: Spiritual Direction
On 9.9.18 Lacy Borgo guided us through the practice of spiritual direction. How can this practice help us listen to God and find the sacred in the ordinary.
9/11/2018 • 50 minutes, 36 seconds
The Eternal Current: We Need Everybody
On 8.26.18, Aaron Niequist returned to share why we need to thank God for our faith tradition, and why we need to grow beyond it.
8/27/2018 • 56 minutes, 25 seconds
Making Space to Grieve
On 8.12.18, Deirdre JVR helped our community make space to grieve.
8/13/2018 • 44 minutes, 9 seconds
Acorn Faith
On 7.15.18, Kristen Leigh Kludt shared her story and how difficult times help us to know the love of God more deeply.
7/17/2018 • 1 hour, 12 seconds
Stories from our brothers and sisters
On 6.10.18, Darrel Washington taught us about serving those struggling with poverty.
6/11/2018 • 54 minutes, 38 seconds
Stories from the Community
On 6.3.18, we heard from people in the Practice community who have been responding to invitations to join God's kingdom work around the world.
6/4/2018 • 1 hour, 53 seconds
Resurrection Love
On 5.20.18, Father Michael guided us through a contemplation of God's love.
5/22/2018 • 49 minutes, 59 seconds
Resurrection Life
On 5.6.18, Jason Feffer encouraged us to bring our whole selves (heads, hearts, and bodies) into relationship with Jesus.
5/7/2018 • 48 minutes, 12 seconds
Resurrection Hope: Taste and See
On 4.22.18, Jonathan Martin shared the invitation of the risen Christ to live an embodied faith, to taste and see.
4/23/2018 • 50 minutes, 28 seconds
Resurrection Joy
On 4.8.18, Sibyl Towner guided us in a contemplation on the risen Christ and the joy we find when Jesus meet us in our point of need.
4/9/2018 • 37 minutes, 6 seconds
The Passion and Compassion of Our Lord Jesus Christ
On 3.11.18, Kellye Fabian guided us in the truth that Jesus' passion was the greatest act of compassion the world has ever known.
3/12/2018 • 54 minutes, 15 seconds
Agony in the Garden
On 2.25.27, Ashlee Eiland guided us into the agony of Jesus in the Garden of Gethsemane.
2/26/2018 • 47 minutes, 46 seconds
Contemplation to Prepare for Lent
Last night, Father Michael led us in a contemplation to help us prepare for the season of Lent. We imagined ourselves at the foot of the cross and asked: How is God inviting you to deepen your practice of prayer during Lent? What might God be inviting you to fast from to experience greater freedom in Christ? How is God inviting you to express solidarity with the poor and suffering face of Christ in the world?
2/12/2018 • 18 minutes, 39 seconds
Journey to the Cross
On 2.11.18, Father Michael led us into the third movement of the Spiritual Exercises and prepared us for the season of Lent.
This is the final contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him.
2/8/2018 • 10 minutes, 36 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: Jesus Calms the Storm (Mark 4:35-41)
This is the ninth contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (Jesus in the Storm by Gustave Dore)
1/29/2018 • 13 minutes, 24 seconds
The Rite of Forgiveness
On 1.28.18, Frederica Mathewes-Green introduced our community to the Eastern Orthodox practice, the Rite of Forgiveness.
1/29/2018 • 22 minutes, 45 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Prodigal Son (Luke 15:11-32)
This is the eighth contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (Return of the Prodigal Son by Rembrandt)
1/22/2018 • 25 minutes, 37 seconds
The Public Life of Christ
On 1.22.18, Gail Donahue led us through an exploration of the hospitality of Christ. Hospitality is essential because it is the heartbeat of God.
1/22/2018 • 53 minutes, 19 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: Jesus Calls the Disciples (Mark 1:16-20)
This is the seventh contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him.
1/15/2018 • 10 minutes, 51 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Wedding at Cana (John 2:1-12)
This is the sixth contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (The final words to consider were written by Tim Keller, and the concluding prayer is from Return To Our Senses: Reimagining How We Pray by Christine Sine.)
1/8/2018 • 14 minutes, 33 seconds
Discovering the Will of God
On 1.7.18, Ashlee Eiland shared how we might move away from experiencing God's will as a formula to solve and build a foundation based on the example of Christ.
1/8/2018 • 43 minutes, 22 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Baptism of Christ (Matthew 3:13-17)
This is the fifth contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (artwork by Daniel Bonnell)
1/1/2018 • 9 minutes
Imaginative Prayer Series: Escape to Egypt (Matthew 2:13-23)
This is the fourth contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him.
12/26/2017 • 20 minutes, 1 second
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Visit of the Magi (Matthew 2:1-12)
This is the third contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (The Mural “Adoration of the Magi” was painted by a group of Benedictine monks from Conception Abbey.)
12/17/2017 • 14 minutes, 14 seconds
The Incarnation
On 12.10.17, Jason Feffer reflected on the scandalous mystery of the incarnation.
12/11/2017 • 32 minutes, 50 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Birth of Christ (Luke 2:1-21)
This is the second contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (painting by James Jacques Joseph Tissot)
12/11/2017 • 12 minutes, 36 seconds
Imaginative Prayer Series: The Annunciation (Luke 1:26-38)
This is the first contemplation in a series of imaginative prayer resources written by and recorded for The Practice community. Imaginative prayer is way of meeting with the Lord by using our imagination to enter a Gospel story. Using our imagination to experience the sights and sounds of the scene helps to bring our whole selves into the presence of Christ. The purpose of this prayer is to meet Jesus face-to-face and grow in intimacy with Him. (artwork by Patricia Brintle www.patriciabrintle.com)
12/4/2017 • 22 minutes, 57 seconds
Call of the King
On 12.3.17 Father Michael introduced us to the second movement of the Spiritual Exercises and led us in the Call of Christ the King meditation.
12/4/2017 • 44 minutes, 20 seconds
11.19.17 The Mercy of God
On 11.17.19 Ashlee Eiland guided us in a reflection on God's great mercy and our call to forgive.
11/20/2017 • 51 minutes, 32 seconds
Human Sinfulness
On 11.5.17, Phileena Heuertz helped us explore the Ignatian perspective of sin and practice the discipline of welcoming prayer.
11/6/2017 • 47 minutes, 8 seconds
Called to Freedom
On 10.22.17, Jason Feffer introduced the Ignatian concept of indifference and led a practice to help us surrender our whole selves to the loving will of God.
10/23/2017 • 42 minutes, 41 seconds
All is Gift
On 10.8.17 Joan Kelley joined us to teach and lead us in a gratitude practice. When we open ourselves in gratitude, we are in a posture to more fully receive God’s love.
10/9/2017 • 46 minutes, 17 seconds
Be-Loved Guided Prayer
As The Practice community journeys through Ignatius of Loyola's Spiritual Exercises, we are spending at least 15 minutes each day resting in God's love. This is a copy of the practice Father Michael led at our gathering. If it is helpful, you may use this reflection to begin your daily practice.
9/18/2017 • 11 minutes, 43 seconds
Created in Love
On 9.17.17 Father Michael introduced the themes of Ignatius of Loyola's Spiritual Exercises and led us in a practice to help ground us in our belovedness.
9/18/2017 • 51 minutes, 42 seconds
A Practice Update
On 8.20.17 Jason Feffer shared an update on the future of The Practice.
8/21/2017 • 45 minutes, 22 seconds
Celebrating God's Work
On 6.25.17 The Practice community gathered to share how God has worked in their lives in the last three years, and celebrate everything God has done.
6/26/2017 • 1 hour, 10 minutes, 5 seconds
The Paschal Mystery
On 6.11.17, Jonathan Martin helped us explore the paschal mystery. How can we lean into the holy pattern of Christ's life, death, and resurrection in our own lives?
6/12/2017 • 53 minutes, 57 seconds
Writing a Biblical Lament
On 6.4.17 Jenna Perrine helped us lean into God with our grief and write a lament based on the nine movements of a biblical lament.
6/5/2017 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 38 seconds
Practice Family Announcement
On 5.21.17, we announced the very sad news that June 25th will be the final Practice gathering.
5/22/2017 • 30 minutes, 44 seconds
God our Mother
On 5.14.17, we explored the mothering images of God in Scripture. It was a beautiful night leaning into our nurturing creator and accepting God's invitation to rest and play.
5/15/2017 • 38 minutes, 30 seconds
Listening on the Emmaus Road
On 4.30.17, David Fitch helped us explore how walking with Jesus and participating in the Eucharist forms us to tend to Christ's presence in one another.
5/1/2017 • 36 minutes, 25 seconds
Listening to my Story
On 4.23.17 Sibyl Towner led us in an exercise of listening for the presence of God in our stories.
4/24/2017 • 47 minutes, 31 seconds
From Fear to Sacrificial Love
On 4.2.17, Curtis Miller helped us explore how we can turn away fear and engage the world from a place of sacrificial love, and Erin Feffer led us in the spiritual discipline, Lectio Divina.
4/3/2017 • 48 minutes, 55 seconds
Knowing our True Selves
On 3.19.17, Ashlee Eiland shared with us a framework for dying to our false selves and knowing our true selves. Listen as Ashlee teaches us to embrace knowing, inspecting, and pruning.
3/20/2017 • 51 minutes, 58 seconds
Tuning our minds to God's presence
On 3.12.17, Frederica Mathewes-Green helped us explore an Eastern Orthodox perspective ofGod's constant presence.
3/13/2017 • 41 minutes, 29 seconds
Crafting a Rhythm of Life
On 3.5.17, Jason Feffer helped us to craft a simple rhythm of life grounded in our desires and the spiritual disciplines.
3/6/2017 • 48 minutes, 16 seconds
Loved to be a Blessing
On 2.20.17, Kellye Fabian helped us understand that God's response to humanity's sinfulness is blessing. We are called to be a blessing, to see, speak well of, and sacrifice to share the love of God with the world.
2/20/2017 • 41 minutes, 39 seconds
Designed to Love
On 2.12.17, Curtis Miller taught us that we were each created to demonstrate the image of our loving, triune God in community.
2/13/2017 • 38 minutes, 35 seconds
God's Beloved: Nurtured and Nourished by God
On 1.29.17, Shauna Niequist helped us understand that "the love of God is the purest nourishment.
1/30/2017 • 36 minutes, 37 seconds
Two Prayers for President Donald Trump
On January 22nd, we offered two prayers for President Donald Trump: (1) Fr Michael Sparough, SJ, wrote and prayed a priestly prayer, (2) Claudia Heinrich wrote and prayed a prophetic prayer, and then (3) we all stood and prayed The Lord's Prayer. This very short podcast is the live recording of those prayers. Friends, please join us as we pray...
1/25/2017 • 9 minutes, 36 seconds
God is not loving; God is love
On 1.22.17, Jonathan Martin helped us explore our images of God and left us with a provocative statement. "God is not loving; God is love."
1/23/2017 • 41 minutes, 14 seconds
Rhythm of Life: Making Our Home in Jesus
On 1.15.17, Jason Feffer helped us identify how our deepest longings draw us to God and how a rhythm of life helps us make our home in Jesus.
1/16/2017 • 41 minutes, 35 seconds
Advent: Hope for new beginnings
On 12.11.16 Curtis Miller led us to identify our longing for new beginnings, and the promise that our hope is fulfilled in God's holy the presence.
12/12/2016 • 23 minutes, 24 seconds
Advent: We begin in the dark
On 12.4.16 Jerusalem Greer helped us enter into the longing of Advent. This season that begins the church year does not begin with the birth of Jesus. It begins in pain, fear, and longing. It is an invitation to open our hearts to the whispered promise of hope.
12/5/2016 • 44 minutes, 54 seconds
Beat Eight: Blessed are Those Who are Persecuted for Righteousness
On 11.20.16 we explored the eighth Beatitude, "Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." Clary and Jason teach the life Jesus invites us into is one of radical love. There is a cost to loving like Jesus. This cost keeps many of us from loving sacrificially, but Jesus promises that those who lose their lives will find it.
11/21/2016 • 34 minutes, 51 seconds
Beat Seven: Blessed are the Peacemakers
On 11.13.16 we lean into the seventh Beatitude, "Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God." Rabbi Evan Moffic framed a biblical understanding of shalom for us. Members of our community shared how they have leaned into peacemaking. And Aaron challenged us intentionally resist the temptation to retreat and take tangible steps toward being instruments of Shalom.
11/14/2016 • 55 minutes, 17 seconds
Beat Six: Blessed are the Pure in Heart
On 11.6.16 Mark Scandrette led us in the sixth beat, "Blessed are the pure in heart for they will see God." We are told to wear masks; to hide things we think and feel inside. But Jesus promises we were created as unique and beautiful people, and he invites us to live with undivided and pure hearts.
11/8/2016 • 42 minutes, 42 seconds
Beat Five: Blessed are the Merciful
On 10.23.16 musician/writer Stu G came to share a few songs, stories, and teachings on the Beatitudes--specifically digging into what it means to give and receive mercy. A tender and powerful night.
10/24/2016 • 58 minutes, 8 seconds
Beat Four: Blessed are Those Who Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
On 10.16.16, Meredith and Curtis guided us brilliantly into Jesus' words "Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled". After naming our deepest ache for the world ("I'm hungry and thirsty for a world where...."), we explored Christ's invitation to join God in redeeming and restoring all things, and the lies that hold us back. Finally, Curtis taught us a new practice to help choose one meaningful action this week.
10/17/2016 • 44 minutes, 22 seconds
Beat Three: Blessed are the Meek
On 01.09.16, Sibyl Towner invited us deep into the beatitude "Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth." We are told that our value is based on comparison; I must be either better than or less than. But Jesus promises that we each have equal dignity as beloved children of God.
10/10/2016 • 38 minutes, 35 seconds
Beat Two: Blessed Are Those Who Mourn
On 09.25.16, Jason Feffer explored this beatitude by inviting us into the story of his life. From deep pain...to masterful avoidance...to discovering the presence of Christ in lament, Jason's story helped us begin the journey from the pain of Blessed are those who mourn to the promise of For they will be comforted.
9/26/2016 • 32 minutes, 9 seconds
Beat one: Blessed are the Poor in Spirit
On 09.18.16, John and Lori invited us to explore and begin practicing the first beatitude: Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the Kingdom of Heaven. At the end, Jason Feffer shares his story and then invites us into three practices for the week.
9/19/2016 • 45 minutes, 15 seconds
Practicing the Beatitudes: A Journey back to Reality
On 09.11.16, our friend Mark Scandrette returned to cast a big vision and invitation into The Beatitudes. He offered four insights to why these nine statements of Christ are a path of healing and recovery, and he invited us on a "journey back to reality" over the next three months.
9/12/2016 • 43 minutes, 17 seconds
A Theology and Practice of The Other
Pastor Michael Rudzena teaches a Theology of "the other" and invites us into a profound and provocative practice. Based on Jesus' teaching in Matthew 9 ("But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice’") and modern research on the human experience of disgust, Michael helps us move beyond the barriers to love our friends, neighbors, and enemies as ourselves.
8/15/2016 • 38 minutes, 42 seconds
Crafting a Summer Experiment
Jason Feffer guides us through a powerful process to discern God's invitation for this summer, name our deep desires and potential roadblocks, and craft a personal summer experiment to engage over the next 6 weeks.
6/26/2016 • 37 minutes, 9 seconds
Blessing & Sending
This Sunday marks the fourth and final week of our Living the Liturgy series in which we dive into the sacred ritual of passing the peace and the benediction we practice each and every week. Jenna steps in for Kellye to share how being blessed is the foundation for blessing others and John leads us in a practice of receiving the words of blessing we deeply need to hear from God in imaginative prayer.
6/12/2016 • 41 minutes, 2 seconds
The Eucharist
Old friend of The Practice Jonathan Martin is joined by our newest friend Nichole Nordeman to continue our Living the Liturgy series with a closer look at the practice at the center of our gathering, the Eucharist. Jonathan leads us to the table with deep insight into how it can nourish us in every season and Nichole leads us into the heart of this great mystery through her music to prepare our hearts.
6/5/2016 • 47 minutes, 54 seconds
Confession & Assurance
This Sunday our Living the Liturgy series continues with John & Jenna Perrine as we explore the sacred practice of confession and assurance in our weekly liturgy. Through Christ we know we are forgiven forever - so why do we still practice this ritual and how does this communal practice contribute to our growth and spiritual formation? This practice includes a time of guided confession and assurance.
5/22/2016 • 36 minutes
Engaging Scripture
Curtis Miller begins our Living the Liturgy series by examining the weekly practice of communally ready scripture together on Sundays. Learn we us how the sacred rituals we practice on Sundays, shape us in our daily lives.
5/15/2016 • 42 minutes, 36 seconds
Stories of Resurrection In Community
The past four weeks at The Practice have been an incredible
journey into resurrection, and we have heard some powerful stories
in race, religion and Iraq testifying to the power of Christ to
bring about new life. This Sunday, we are even more excited to
bring the conversation closer to home and get personal with one
another as we share stories of resurrection in our very own
community. This podcast includes the vision and invitation for why
we share and listen with one another, as well as our listening
guidelines for our practice time.
5/1/2016 • 29 minutes, 54 seconds
Stories of Resurrection In Iraq
Friend of The Practice and founder of The Preemptive Love Coalition Jeremy Courtney joins our Stories of Resurrection series to shape his story of Resurrection in Iraq. Includes a contemplative practice time of having eyes to see resurrection in our lives and in the world.
4/24/2016 • 43 minutes, 39 seconds
Stories of Resurrection in Religion
Author Sarah Bessey joins The Practice tribe to share her story of resurrection in the context of religion, discovering new life in a faith that was beginning to feel like death. This podcast includes a contemplative practice time to have eyes to see resurrection in our lives and the world.
4/17/2016 • 50 minutes, 17 seconds
Stories of Resurrection in Race
Racial reconciliation advocate, musician and gifted producer David Bailey of Arrabon joins the practice to share his story of resurrection in race as part of the Kingdom of God. Hear David's passion and call to reconciliation in our modern day Jerusalems, Judeas, and Samarias. Includes a contemplative practice of having eyes to see resurrection in race.
4/10/2016 • 52 minutes, 15 seconds
Stories of Resurrection: Vision & Invitation
In view of Easter, this Sunday begins a five week journey called "Stories of Resurrection: Cultivating Eyes to See & Join God’s Redemption Everywhere." This Sunday, our very own Aaron Niequist led us into the vision and invitation of this good news, and set us up with a framework for the journey ahead. This podcast includes a reflective practice time of having eyes to see resurrection in our lives and the world around us.
4/3/2016 • 49 minutes, 42 seconds
How Can I Lament?
This Sunday, Jenna Perrine invites us into a practical vision for how we can make lament a part of our daily lives, before leading us through a holy workshop in the practice of 9 steps to writing our own lament before God. Friends, this is where the rubber meets the road. This is where we learn how to put the idea of lament into practice.
2/28/2016 • 46 minutes, 57 seconds
What Is Biblical Lament?
In week two of our exploration of lament in Lent, Curtis Miller helps us answer the key question, "What Is Biblical Lament?" sharing both a biblical framework and a vulnerable insight into the power of this practice. This podcast includes a practice of lamenting with pictures led by Kellye Fabian, which you can follow along with using our handout.
2/21/2016 • 47 minutes, 39 seconds
Why Do We Lament?
Beloved guest of The Practice, Jonathan Martin kicks off our corporate exploration of the Lenten theme and practice of lament, exploring why this often forgotten practice is so important for our Spiritual lives. This podcast also includes a full Lectio Divina of Psalm 6 led by our dear friend Fr. Michael.
2/14/2016 • 36 minutes, 58 seconds
Preparing for a season of Preparation
Our dear friend Mark Scandrette is back to help us discern what practices might help us personally create space for God to lead us into a deeper engagement with the season of Lent. Mark invites each of us to craft a personalized plan for lent that meets us in our deepest needs as we prepare for Easter together.
1/31/2016 • 45 minutes, 14 seconds
A Liturgy of Vocation
To finish our exploration of vocation, Jenna and John created a liturgy to carry us through the whole story of God's work in the world and our invitation to join Him. From Creation to Fall to the Redemption and Restoration of all things--through music, story-telling, scripture, silence, spoken word, and prayer - immerse yourself and explore your contribution to God's Kingdom. This Podcast includes our Redemption and Restoration movement, including a powerful testimony of vocation from beloved friend of The Practice, Katie Ro.
1/24/2016 • 18 minutes, 36 seconds
The Story of Vocation
John Perrine leads us through the story of vocation to show us how our vocations are part of God's original good and his plan for redeeming and restoring paradise. Includes a guided practice time of imaginative prayer to see our vocations through the eyes of Christ.
1/17/2016 • 35 minutes, 56 seconds
A Theology of Vocation
Steven Garber kicks off our Visions of Vocation series by exploring the profound truth that our vocations are integral, not incidental, to the Kingdom of God. This podcast includes both Steven's message and a time of Q & A unpacking a theology of vocation.
1/10/2016 • 51 minutes, 57 seconds
Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room
Our Advent Celebration is a special edition of the Practice Podcast that invites you into the journey of our full service, exploring the Christmas story through word, song, and reflection on how to prepare Christ room in our hearts this season.
12/13/2015 • 1 hour, 5 minutes, 15 seconds
Crowding Out Christ In Our Hearts
Beloved friend of The Practice Jonathan Martin leads us into the season of Advent where we explore the theme, 'Let Every Heart Prepare Him Room' by first asking what could be crowding out Christ in your heart this Advent season? Includes an Advent Examen and a guided practice of letting go.
12/6/2015 • 36 minutes, 44 seconds
How to Practice Sabbath
Fellow Practitioner Jason Feffer guides us through the practicalities for practicing a rhythm of Sabbath and encourages us to plan and prepare for our next Sabbath rest through a guided journalling tool.
11/15/2015 • 32 minutes, 56 seconds
Seven Practices for Sabbath Keeping
Beloved friend of The Practice, Rabbi Evan Moffic, leads us into how we can set Sabbath apart as holy by walking us through seven practical practices for Sabbath Keeping. Includes a practice of blessing and reflection.
11/6/2015 • 25 minutes, 20 seconds
An Embodied Examen
Fr. Michael Sparough explores with us how having an embodied spirituality can deepen our experience of the Examen in our daily lives. Includes a guided practice of an Embodied Examen.
11/1/2015 • 43 minutes, 20 seconds
Brain Science, Spiritual Practices & Christ
Eric Connor and Jenna Perrine invite us into the world of neuroscience and how recent discoveries can help us better integrate our mind, body, and spirit to invite Christ into the renewing and rewiring of our minds. This podcast includes a guided visualization prayer practice.
10/25/2015 • 32 minutes, 17 seconds
How To Practice A Rhythm Of Silence
Fellow Practitioner Jason Feffer has been studying, practicing, and writing about the discipline of silence for a number of years - here he brings a deeply practical teaching on how to tangibly swim with the rhythm of silence in our everyday lives.
10/4/2015 • 33 minutes, 49 seconds
The Need For Silence
The brilliant and compelling Shauna Niequist shares her story of what living without silence brought about in her life, and how through seeking the practice of silence, she began to truly honor and protect the Kingdom of God in herself.
9/27/2015 • 41 minutes, 46 seconds
Connecting To Our Desire
Special guest of The Practice Ruth Haley Barton helps us dive deep into our desire & how it connects to living out God's unforced rhythms of grace through sharing the story of blind Bartimaeus and considering Jesus' response: "What do you want me to do for you?"
9/20/2015 • 41 minutes, 28 seconds
The Invitation to Unforced Rhythms of Grace
Aaron Niequist begins our Fall journey by unpacking the invitation to "swim with The River" that is God's redemptive rhythm of grace for the sake of the world.
9/13/2015 • 18 minutes, 26 seconds
What We've Learned
This Sunday marked the end of our 18 month experiment here at The Practice. In our final month we spent much of our time gathering what our team and our community was discerning from God about the future of The Practice. Aaron shares some of what we've learned as we end this first chapter and look to the future.
6/21/2015 • 24 minutes, 38 seconds
Discernment Through Listening
John Perrine shares with the community three postures of awareness for us to practice when it comes to listening for discernment from God - both in group discernment and in our personal lives.
6/14/2015 • 7 minutes, 21 seconds
Discerning God's Will
Kellye Fabian shares a part of her story to explore the difference between decision making and discerning God's will in our lives. Decisions are made, but discernment is given from God - listen as we explore how to practice the difference. Includes a practice time of praying a prayer for Holy Indifference over the areas in our lives we desire to know God's will in.
6/7/2015 • 24 minutes
God Our Mother Liturgy
For Mother's Day this year, part of our liturgy focused on and celebrated how God is revealed through mothering images in Scripture. This podcast includes an original prayer litany that moves through the scriptures of God as mother. You can download a visual of the liturgy here.
5/10/2015 • 15 minutes, 52 seconds
Broken Open for Peace
This Mother's Day, Lynne Hybels joins us for a powerful message on how the Eucharist breaks us open for peacemaking. Lynne shares her personal journey from the dark night of her soul into the call to be a revoluntionary peacemaker after the example of Christ.
5/10/2015 • 25 minutes, 39 seconds
Broken Open for Reconciliation
Guest Speaker and reconciliation advocast Austin Channing Brown shares her heart for how the Eucharist breaks us open for the ministry of reconciliation. Learn how Jesus' radical example of 'flipping tables' informs our call to overturn the homogenous tables in our own lives and practice protest in the name of reconciliation.
5/3/2015 • 20 minutes, 25 seconds
Eucharist As Mission
Guest Speaker, professor and church planting coach David Fitch shares his wisdom on Eucharist as a training ground for Mission. Learn how the postures we assume at The Lord's Table shape us for Mission at the tables in our daily lives.
4/26/2015 • 21 minutes, 39 seconds
Everyone is Welcome at The Table
Guest speaker and beloved friend of The Practice, Jonathan Martin, shares a powerful message on who is welcome at The Lord's Table - inviting us to consider the radical table practices of Christ himself, and how it should influence our own.
4/19/2015 • 32 minutes, 34 seconds
A Theology Of The Eucharist
Dr. Scot McKinght kicks off our new series on "Eucharist and Mission" with a foundational theology of The Eucharist. Scot explores the deep connections between Eucharist and Passover, inviting us into the liberation that takes place around the table.
4/12/2015 • 29 minutes, 20 seconds
Dying That We May Live
John Perrine leads us through the Lenten theme of Dying to Self, exploring Jesus’ invitation to take up our crosses and follow him. Includes a guided Examen on putting off the old self and putting on the new.
4/7/2015 • 30 minutes, 15 seconds
The Gift of Repentance
Kellye Fabian explores the beauty of Psalm 51 as a model for our own repentance in this season of Lent.
3/23/2015 • 36 minutes, 16 seconds
Lent and The Examen
Fr Michael shares his wisdom on the season of Lent and leads us through The Examen as a practice to help us prepare for Easter.
3/11/2015 • 39 minutes, 8 seconds
Lead Us Not Into Temptation
Jenna Perrine closes our series at The Practice on The Lord's Prayer in her message, "Lead Us Not Into Temptation, But Deliver Us From Evil." Jenna explores this section of The Lord's Prayer as an invitation to surredner and a prayer for God's leadership through the trials, temptations and testing that are sure to come in our faith.
3/3/2015 • 11 minutes, 56 seconds
As We Forgive
Guest Speaker Deirdre JVR returns for our series on The Lord's Prayer to unpack the second half of the phrase, "Forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who have trespassed against us." Deirdre shares a helpful process for forgiveness and leads us through a time of prayer as we explore who we may need to forgive before God.
2/15/2015 • 44 minutes, 16 seconds
Forgive Us Our Trespasses
Guest Speaker Deirdre JVR brings her wisdom and experience from years of counseling and reconciliation ministry, to share with us what it means to really know God's forgiveness. Only those who have experienced forgiveness can learn what it means to become a forgiver.
2/8/2015 • 20 minutes, 36 seconds
Our Daily Bread
Guest Speaker Jonathan Martin joins us for our series on The Lord's Prayer. In this wonderful message he invites us into what it means to ask and be content with THIS daily bread. This podcast also includes our time of practicing with a guided prayer and response led by Jonathan.
1/25/2015 • 29 minutes, 40 seconds
Thy Kingdom Come
Guest Speaker Steve Carter joins us for our series in The Lord's Prayer to unpack the complexities of "Thy Kingdom Come, Thy Will Be Done As It Is In Heaven," especially in light of the reality of the now and the not yet.
1/18/2015 • 36 minutes, 35 seconds
Our Father In Heaven
Aaron Niequist kicks off the beginning of our series on The Lord's Prayer, unpacking the familiar words, "Our Father Who Art In Heaven."