Dear friends, Bread. In some shape or form, it exists in practically every culture and country in the world and makes its way to our plates for at least one meal a day. Flour, water and yeast are basic ingredients for every type of risen bread. What ever else is put into the recipe and how it is handled determine much about the outcome. A lot like us. As each of us came to life, many other ingredients and our environment along the way helped shape us into the people we are today. Explore the deliciously beautiful soul you are at our August spirituality workshop. Look no further. Read below to enjoy one last piece of summer at Middleway.
Spirituality of breadmaking:
Buns for the Grill
What could be better than a home-grilled burger this summer? A home-grilled burger on a homemade bun. It's downright spiritual. Join us on Aug. 5, 10 a.m.-Noon to experience the discipline of kneading the dough, waiting patiently for it to rise, the yeasty smell - and what that might have to do with God in your life. It's great for individuals, friends or families. Hot dogs - on homemade buns, of course - will be served at the conclusion of this event, so be sure to register in advance.
Creativity with The Creator
For two more weeks, we're providing simple creative projects you can d0 at your own pace. It's a meditative experience to sit in the art area while soft music plays and you unleash your creative side.
Instructions are provided for each self-paced craft. There are no rules for each project's outcome. You be you.
This week we feature Greetings Cards. Is there someone you need to thank? Someone whose birthday is coming up? A "thinking of you' for a friend or family member? We'll have all the supplies for as many as you want to make and envelopes as well.
The art zone, like all of the monastery, is judgment free, and our projects work for school-aged children through adults.
Here's what you can create with us this summer:
July 25-28 - Greeting cards to share
Aug. 1-5 - Painting bread (and yes, it's edible)
Chanting the Psalms and Contemplative Sit
Our group of chanters is growing, and we'd love to have you as well. Deepen your spirituality by chanting the psalms. Led by Amy Thompson, this features Anglican and Gregorian chants using Psalms, followed by a 20-minute meditative sit (or centering). The next gathering is July 30 at 2 p.m. Let us know you're coming!
Spiritual directors lend a (holy) ear at Middleway
The backbone of Middleway is a team of spiritual directors, well trained by various schools, whose ministry is to listen to you with a holy ear. We are spiritual companions who are willing to meet with you monthly in a non-judging atmosphere as you discern where God is in your life. We don't try to "fix" you with our solutions. Being listened to -- truly listened to -- is powerfully healing. You and your spiritual director normally meet monthly for an hour. Some directors charge varying amounts, and others do not charge. Our current spiritual directors are listed at https://www.middlewayurbanmonastery.org/spiritual-direction. Email us at info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org if you need more information.
Planning ahead: note these on your calendar
We hope you'll find at least one special event to attend between now and August. Mark your calendars!
July 30 – Chanting and meditative sit, 2 p.m., with Amy Brunt Thompson.
Aug. 5 – Spirituality of Breadmaking: Buns for the grill - 10 a.m.-Noon, with Kathleen Phillips.
Ongoing:
Weekly Creativity with The Creator in the art area, through Aug. 5
How to experience the monastery While we offer a variety of programs you can attend, the monastery is also open at least four days a week and some evenings, Saturdays or Sundays for you to just come for a dose of the relaxing atmosphere where no one will bug you. Read, retreat from the hectic pace of your world, use the 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 peace away from electronic distractions. We need you! Come volunteer as one who welcomes others into this peaceful place. While there, you'll be able to enjoy the hope, peace and comfort as well. We especially need volunteer hosts and receptionists who'd love to greet people and help them get familiar with the monastery. Middleway is 100 percent volunteer operated. 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. If you need assistance, please come by the monastery or email info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org. Middleway Urban Monastery's Guide for Life
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