Dear Middleway Urban Monastery friends, We’re two! You might say Middleway is a pandemic baby. We came to be in late June 2020 when a group of spiritual directors pondered how to reach people who were seeking something for their souls in a society that was mostly shut. Middleway’s first door, therefore, was virtual. As society began to reopen, so did we - with a peaceful setting near downtown Bryan in November 2021. This month we celebrate two years of offering peace, comfort and hope in our community. We’ll celebrate all month in special ways. Consider the ways we can be a gift to you, your friends and family below. Middleway's Facebook Group
Happy birthday to us; the gift is for you We'll be celebrating our two years in several ways this month. Our first is the gift of light. With an activity that is completely suitable for children, we have flameless candles in our art area that can be decorated before taking home. We also have some goody bags in our hospitality area free for the taking. Your presence at Middleway is a gift to us. Journaling and spirituality group open to all Journaling as a way to tell one's story -- and sharing that walk in community with others -- is the aim for this group gathering. Our next get together will be Saturday, July 23, 10:30 a.m.-noon. It is guided by Amy Brunt Thompson. You do not have to have attended previous sessions to come, and all are welcome. How to use the monastery While we offer a variety of programs you can attend, know that the monastery is also open for you to just come to use your time as you wish in a relaxing atmosphere where no one will bug you. You might want to read, retreat from the hectic pace of your world, use our free art supplies, or partake of any of our prayer techniques that are gently explained in materials throughout the monastery. Children are welcome to come with an adult and may find the art area or special children's spirituality area a way to honor a peaceful atmosphere away from electronic distractions. Tell us what topics, events you would like to explore Our spiritual directors are planning the coming year and would like your input. As you think about where you are with God, what topics would you be interested in learning more about in a discussion group, retreat, workshop or other type of gathering? Let us know at info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org. Spiritual direction offered at Middleway A spiritual director is one who can listen to you with a holy ear and doesn't try to "fix" you with their solutions. Being listened to -- truly listened to -- is powerfully healing. Spiritual directors at Middleway are trained and vetted so we know your story will be heard and kept in confidence. After selecting a spiritual director, a person normally plans to meet with that person monthly for an hour. Our current spiritual directors are listed at https://www.middlewayurbanmonastery.org/spiritual-direction. Let us know if we can help you find a listening soul companion. We need you at Middleway Middleway is 100 percent volunteer operated. Come be one who welcomes others into this peaceful place. While there, you'll be able to enjoy the hope, peace and comfort as well. Sign up at https://timecounts.org/middlewaymonastery/. After you've selected the areas you want to volunteer in, you'll be able to click the Opportunities tab, then Assignments, then Available Shifts. Current volunteers, please choose your dates for April. Middleway Urban Monastery's Guide for Life