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What becomes available when we open up to the medicine of disappointment?What happens when we recognize other people's responses as potentially distorted reflections of our essence?How do we embrace playfulness as our guide to humility?In this episode, In this episode, I digest and deepen into some of the transmissions that came through the monthly contemplative guidance for May 2025 (Episode 204. Cultivating Self-Honesty). Book my new 1:1 offering, Creative Spirit Reading. Limited spots available throughout May and June 2025.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
At the heart of contemplation is an attitude of total surrender to the Divine. This is easier said than done, of course. In our minds, we may sincerely believe that we wish to do God's will in all things. But the moment the bitter cup is served, we often find ourselves protesting and howling at life's unfairness. Christ's prayer in Gethsemane is an archetype of perfect “willingness”: the willingness to experience exactly what life gives us to experience in each moment, trusting that it is for our good. And it's not only Christianity where the virtue of “willingness” figures prominently. Listen as Thomas takes a comparative look at the Buddhist tradition's take on this “divine abode.” Upcoming, in-person offerings with Thomas: 7-day meditation retreat (September 30th - October 7th) 9-month deep dive in the contemplative life (still accepting applications)
This week, we share a For the Journey exclusive conversation between Bill Haley and Kelly Gould— a mother, spiritual director in training, and longtime friend of Coracle. They discuss the ins and outs and highs and lows of the contemplative life, which they describe and define in a number of compelling ways.Additional Resources:Teatime with Jesus by Kelly Gould“Are You a Contemplative (or Becoming One)?” by Bill HaleyLearn More About Spiritual Direction through Coracleinthecoracle.org | @inthecoracleSupport the show
A 20-minute audio guided body scan, resting in God's love, Psalm 46:10 A deeply restorative meditation in the body, for the mind and spirit. You will emerge feeling calmer, more centred and more deeply connected with the Spirit of God. This kind of meditation is known as yoga nidra, and I love to offer it to […] The post Twenty Minute Body Scan – Be Still and Know That I Am God appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
Today's episode offers a longer, deeper meditation to help you integrate the themes and skills from the past 7 episodes. Practice fasting not just from food and drink, but from thought and feeling. Consent to God's Presence and action within. Cling to nothing. Risk getting lost— forget even who you think you are. And trust that you hold in hand the only key you need to unlock the Divine Force in your life. 7-day meditation retreat (September 30th - October 7th) 9-month deep dive in the contemplative life (still accepting applications)
Today, Matt Nightingale and I talk about why we need queer only spaces for spiritual conversations. Matt Nightingale (he/him) is a pastor, musician, speaker, writer, and spiritual director from San Francisco's North Bay Area. He is the founder and executive director of Common Sanctuary, and co-pastor of a progressive American Baptist church called The Quest.As a gay Christian, Matt is passionate about the intersection of sexuality and spirituality, and he works to create safe, sacred spaces for people exploring these identities. His TEDx talk, “Choosing Gratitude and Hope,” with his former wife, Luanne Nightingale, tells their story of a mixed-orientation marriage, an evolving understanding of faith and sexuality, and the choice to divorce with gratitude and hope.Matt is the husband of Alejandro and the father of four adult children. You can find Matt on socials @mattnightingale. Check out all the resources Matt mentioned on his website, mattnightingale.com, and commonsanctuary.org. Join the Found Family crew on Substack and get the Found Family Cheat Sheet! Support the show
In a sense, contemplative prayer is none other than the practice of deepening one's faith in God. But faith manifests in many guises. Perhaps a less obvious quality of faith is confidence. What does it mean to sit with a “restful confidence,” fully trusting that God is bringing about a mighty work in you? Listen to this episode as Thomas draws from the inspired thinking of Sri Aurobindo as well as a favorite scripture of his from back home. May you live prayerfully, always with a “perfect brightness of hope.” 7-day meditation retreat (September 30th - October 7th) 9-month deep dive in the contemplative life (still accepting applications)
So in normal programming excerpt this week which had been planned for quite a number of weeks, John and Shane were delighted to speak to Mother Catherine, the prioress of the Cobh Priory of St Benedict of the Congregation of the Adorers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Montmatre a.k.a. the Tyburn Benedictine Nuns. We learn about the sisters daily life, their history and also their role in honouring the 350 martyrs of Tyburn including St Oliver Plunkett.One of the things we like to do on the podcast is to help listeners explore the many facets of religious life in the church. On this weeks podcast we were delighted to chat to Mother Catherine of St Benedict's Priory in Cobh, Co Cork who shares with us the contemplative Benedictine life of the Adorers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Montmatre. She shares with us their daily life, the history and foundation of the congregation in France, its exile to the UK and the fortuitous story of how they came to be custodians of the memory of the Reformation martyrs at Tyburn in London. Tyburn Nuns main web site in UKSt Benedict's Priory Cobh webpageText us at +353 874668950 or email at comeandseeinspirtaions@gmail.com
We have a BUMPER podcast this week for listeners!So in normal programming which had been planned for quite a number of weeks, John and Shane were delighted to speak to Mother Catherine, the prioress of the Cobh Priory of St Benedict of the Congregation of the Adorers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Montmatre a.k.a. the Tyburn Benedictine Nuns. We learn about the sisters daily life, their history and also their role in honouring the 350 martyrs of Tyburn including St Oliver Plunkett.But obviously given the week that is in it we couldn't ignore the news from Rome and the election of Pope Leo XIV on Thursday so John and Shane had to very quickly get to grips with the information about the new man and rapidly change our plans for this weeks podcast on Friday morning!We do have our regular run through the liturgical odds and ends including up coming saints of the weeks and our congratulations locally to (Fr - to be) Tim Collins who is to be ordained for our home diocese of Limerick on 11 May. Our gospel reflection this week is a tad shorter than usual but hopefully will give listeners some food for thought as we mark the 4th Sunday of Easter also knows as Good Shepherd Sunday or Vocations Sunday and in Ireland in particular we lift up our prayers for the Lord of the Harvest to send labourers into his vineyard. Habemus Papum!Well! Have you caught your breath yet with the speed of events? White smoke on Thursday evening around 5pm Irish time with the presentation of the new Holy Father Pope Leo XIV to the faithful about an hour later. We have a brief chat about what we know so far about the new Holy Father and share some thoughts and a little bit of C&SI speculation as to the days ahead.One thing for listeners is to have good, reliable sources of news information and here on C&SI when it comes to things Papal at the moment we have three solid recommendations:Vatican News (hear it from the horses mouth!The Pillar - the team have done an amazing job of covering the last few weeks, brilliant coverage, loads of digestible information with a solid Catholic understanding of what is going on. CruxNow - John Allen and Co provide excellent coverage and analysis as always.One article which caught our eye is the reportage from a press conference given by the American Cardinals - have a look and see what you think.Contemplative love at the heart of the ChurchOne of the things we like to do on the podcast is to help listeners explore the many facets of religious life in the church. On this weeks podcast we were delighted to chat to Mother Catherine of St Benedict's Priory in Cobh, Co Cork who shares with us the contemplative Benedictine life of the Adorers of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Montmatre. She shares with us their daily life, the history and foundation of the congregation in France, its exile to the UK and the fortuitous story of how they came to be custodians of the memory of the Reformation martyrs at Tyburn in London. Tyburn Nuns main web site in UKSt Benedict's Priory Cobh webpageText us at +353 874668950 or email at comeandseeinspirtaions@gmail.com
This talk was given by Ines Freedman on 2025.05.08 at the Insight Meditation Center in Redwood City, CA. ******* Video of this talk is available at: https://youtube.com/live/ba46UcX_FPM?feature=share. ******* For more talks like this, visit AudioDharma.org ******* If you have enjoyed this talk, please consider supporting AudioDharma with a donation at https://www.audiodharma.org/donate/. ******* This talk is licensed by a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 License
In Part 2 of Introducing the new Living Compass mobile app, Scott addresses the questiion, "What is Contemplative Psychology?" and explains how the new app is grounded in this approach to psychology. Download the app for Iphones at: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/living-compass/id6738334257 Donwload the app for Google/Android phones at: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.livingcompass&hl=en
It feels assuring to know the answers to the most important questions in life. It takes more humility to admit we might not know where we're going, and at a deeper level, who we even are. Thomas reflects in this episode on the vulnerability of not knowing and shares a poem from Thomas Merton that shows this special kind of faith in action. And now that Thomas is all done with graduate studies, he'll be dedicating more time to his teaching practice and the broader community. Learn more about two of his upcoming offerings: 7-day meditation retreat (September 30th - October 7th) 9-month deep dive in the contemplative life (still accepting applications)
Contemplative Worship for May 4, 2025
Contemplative service - Passover - Rob Berman by Every Nation Rosebank
The theme for May 2025 is Cultivating Self-Honesty.What makes accessing honesty so challenging?How does self-honesty serve as the foundation to authentic creative expressions?How might connecting with the wisdom of the body and the heart assist in remembering our interdependent nature? Book my new 1:1 offering, Creative Spirit Reading. Limited spots available throughout April and May.I also offer deep dives into your 2025 Astrology and Human Design, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
It's common in Christian life to focus on the aspects of God that we can know and understand—we say God is merciful, patient, loving like a parent…It is less common for most of us to attend to the aspect of God that is too subtle to perceive, too deep to fathom. In this school, to say anything of God is to say too much. This is classically known as the via negativa, leading to the unknowable God. And yet walking this path of unknowing, we come to know things, we come to a new intimacy with God that we couldn't have previously imagined.
Sermon by Ben Downing. Are you new? Let us know you were here: liminalventura.org/connectioncard
Contemplative Worship April 27, 2025
Let's pause together to rest and breathe in the quiet with God for 15 minutes. Remember that this practice is for your whole self. As Thomas Keating wrote, "Contemplative prayer is not so much the absence of thoughts as detachment from them. It is the opening of mind, body and emotions—our whole being—to God, the Ultimate Mystery, beyond words, thoughts and emotions." Send us a text!Support the showIf you enjoy the benefits of Exploring Peace Meditations: Check out Whitney's books: With God in Every Breath, Holy Listening with Breath, Body, and the Spirit and Fully Human, Fully Divine Join our
Living Compass has launced a new mobile and web based app that focusees on the integration of contemplative spirituality and wellness. You can download the app on your Apple phone at: https://apps.apple.com/us/app/living-compass/id6738334257 You can download the app on youor Google/Android phone at: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=org.livingcompass&hl=en You can also access all the content in the app on your web browser at app.livingcompass.org
This month’s podcast features two solo guitar performances from a night and day in Philadelphia. The first was recorded on the evening of March 29, 2024 at the Rotunda as part of the Event Horizon series. Then the next morning I performed at Thunderbird Hall as part of the Chilladelphia series. Both performances were explorations … Continue reading Errant Space Podcast 121: on the language of sound →
Contemplative Worship for Easter Sunday
A 21-minute audio guided meditation, with text from John 19:38-42 Though it is wildly tempting to rush to Easter morning, I invite you to tarry a while with me, to stay here in the holy, devastating moments as the body of Jesus is removed from the cross. As Michael Rosen so wisely said: we can't go […] The post When God is Absent: A Meditation for Holy Saturday appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
In this episode I am joined by Rebekah Sturghill, mother, school teacher, and convert to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah details her upbringing in a Texan evangelical church and how encounters with authoritarianism and questions about her sexuality saw her leave the religion. Rebekah describes a period of passionate teenage atheism before becoming deeply involved in feminist activism beginning in university. Rebekah explains why she remains a feminist but left activism and how, through a powerful visionary experience, she converted to Orthodox Christianity. Rebekah also explores the mechanisms of conversion, considers the line between faith and extremism, and comments on the pros and cons of a new trend of conversions to Orthodox Christianity driven by internet influencers and discussion communities. … Video version: https://www.guruviking.com/podcast/ep302-my-conversion-to-orthodox-christianity-rebekah-sturghill Also available on Youtube, iTunes, & Spotify – search ‘Guru Viking Podcast'. … Topics include: 00:00 - Intro 01:00 - Evangelical Christian upbringing in Texas 04:17 - Studying theology and philosophy at St Johns College 04:38 - Encountering Jesus through reading the Gospels 05:39 - Feminist activism 06:09 - Joining the Orthodox Church 08:18 - Anger at religion and questioning sexuality 11:22 - Authoritarianism in the church 12:26 - Why Rebekah's family left the church 14:05 - Religious community vs contemplative practice 16:19 - Contemplative emphasis in the Orthodox Church 17:10 - Youth groups and community emphasis 18:16 - Radical atheism phase and the impact on family 23:18 - Becoming a feminist activist 25:50 - Questioning feminist theory, struggles with relativism and essentialism 26:52 - Becoming a 2nd wave feminist 28:34 - Influence of the internet on Rebekah's various conversions 31:35 - Conversion or coming home? 33:42 - What feminism really is 35:18 - Frustrations with 3rd wave feminism 40:08 - Why feminist activism? 44:34 - Still a feminist? Which views Rebekah still holds 48:00 - Orthodox Christian view of the individual and equality 49:47 - Are Rebekah's views controversial? 51:43 - In-fighting and leaving activism 54:17 - Religious extremists and extreme activism 55:53 - Losing oneself in extremism 57:50 - Critical mass of buy-in needed for conversion 58:13 - Embracing the dharma or losing oneself? 01:01:46 - CS Lewis' “The Great Divorce” 01:03:36 - Dying to oneself 01:04:54 - Theosis and losing oneself 01:05:42 - Popularity of Orthodox Christianity online, a new wave of converts 01:07:26 - The practice of Orthodoxy Christianity and the supernatural 01:09:05 - Lent 01:09:55 - High profile conversions to Orthodoxy and an internet pipeline 01:11:22 - Rebekah's conversion through relationships and community 01:13:15 - The moment of conversion 01:14:41 - Powerful first conversation with an Orthodox priest … For more interviews, videos, and more visit: - https://www.guruviking.com Music ‘Deva Dasi' by Steve James
A 21-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 18:1-14, using Lectio Divina. A meditation with John's account of the arrest of Jesus. Contemplative at Home offers guided meditative prayer – space to slow down and listen to the truth that is being born out of God's love for you today – drawing on Ignatian spirituality and at times, […] The post Arrest: Lectio Divina: John 18:1-14 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
Contemplative Worship for April 13, 2025
What is the wisdom path Neptune in Aries leading us into?How do we alchemize the challenges we inherited from our ancestors to build the future?How do we hold our tender hearts when nothing seems certain?In this episode, I connected with Neptune in Aries as a teacher for collective liberation, healing, and encouragement. Along with upheavals and disruptions, Neptune in Aries is a guide for remembering the unique medicine of our path. Book my new 1:1 offering, Creative Spirit Reading. Limited spots available throughout April and May.I also offer deep dives into your 2025 Astrology and Human Design, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
A 23-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 13:21-30, using Imaginative Contemplation. Everyone has gathered in Jerusalem for the passover, and Jesus knows that his hour has come. As he sits around the table with his disciples, he becomes visibly distressed before he says aloud “One of you will betray me.” This meditation brings us to this […] The post Jesus and Judas: Imaginative Contemplation: John 13:21-30 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
Contemplative Worship for April 6, 2025
IL: Father Sam Martin joins Patrick to discuss Patience (2:58) Patience is a fruit of the Spirit and a key part of the spiritual life (6:37) Holiness is humility and accepting help. Sometimes it is more blessed to receive than to give (13:10) Patience does coincide with slowing down, solitude and time in prayer (13:38) Contemplative life is one of the best ways we can spend our life in this planet – (20:21) Break 1 (22:03) Mark - Patience in prayer. I see signs that say keep praying. Isn't there a point where the answer is no and you should go on, or should you go on? How do you know when it's no? (28:50) Prayer is friendship and relationship and not just to make sure I am still “in the will” (30:40) Carlo - Could you describe the difference between patience and self-control? – (36:02) Break 2 (37:35) Is there something we can do in the moment to stave of impatience and foster patience in our minds? (45:13) Mary Lou I take care of my elderly mother. Patience is always on the tip of my tongue and heart. She moves really slow and bringing God into those moments where I want to rush her and God is helping me to stop and be present with her. Resources: Humility Rules by Fr. Augustine Wetta, O.S.B.
The theme for April 2025 is Rebirthing The Inner Artist.What messages does our Creative Spirit have for us as we approach the dawn of a new era?How do we step into our creative leadership even when we don't feel ready?How do we alchemize persistent self-doubt and pessimism? Book my new 1:1 offering, Creative Spirit Reading. Limited spots available throughout April and May.I also offer deep dives into your 2025 Astrology and Human Design, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
A 22-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 13:1-17, using Imaginative Contemplation. In this meditation on John's Gospel, I invite you to join me in taking a ‘long, loving look' at a few verses of text, beholding the words as living, shimmering, life-giving containers which hold endless layers of wisdom, mystery, beauty and truth. Here we have […] The post Are You Going to Wash My Feet?: Imaginative Contemplation: John 13:1-17 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
Send us a textMental health and spirituality don't have to exist in separate worlds. Sharon Jones, licensed marriage and family therapist, joins us to unveil her transformative approach to healing through her book "Uploading the Fire, Downloading the Grace: Contemplative Prayers."Born from personal grief after losing her father, Sharon's collection of contemplative prayers offers a pathway through emotional turmoil when words fail us. "I wanted to help everyone that may be grieving or stuck in a place where they needed healing or help or release," she shares, explaining how prayer creates a sacred space for honest conversation with God without the judgment often experienced when sharing pain with others.Sharon challenges faith communities to move beyond platitudes and embrace their power as "first responders" for those in spiritual and emotional crisis. Her groundbreaking work with churches demonstrates how spiritual settings can incorporate therapeutic techniques while honoring faith principles. "Where it starts is coming out of the mind of being judgmental and not putting a label on it, but administer the care," she explains, emphasizing that true spiritual practice means wrapping love around people when they're suffering.The concept of "uploading fire and downloading grace" provides a powerful framework for spiritual resilience—cultivating daily moments of divine connection builds inner strength, while grace represents the unmerited favor and support available even in our darkest hours. This conversation will transform how you approach both prayer and mental wellbeing.Join our Facebook group "Koffee Chit Chat" to continue the conversation during our seasonal break, and follow our journey on Instagram. Sharon welcomes connections through her Facebook pages "Alabaster Moments" and "Alabaster Spirit."Support the showHey y'all hey, don't miss the next episode of Koffee Chitchat!!
Sermon by Wayne Randolph. Are you new? Let us know you were here: liminalventura.org/connectioncard
There are many flavors of spirituality. Redhawk reveals his own flavor: Contemplative Spirituality. What is contemplation? How can we be awash in our own ocean of associations and see its utility in our lives? Blessings!
This month’s podcast marks a decade of Errant Space podcasting! I’ve dug into the archives and found some rare or unreleased bonus tracks to celebrate. It begins with a piece for piano and percussion by Peter Fagiola that features some guitar atmospherics by me (Craig). Next some recordings made with David Rothenberg at his Bee Street studio (that’s … Continue reading Errant Space Podcast 120: Ten Years →
A 22-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 12:27-28, 34-36, and 42-43, using Lectio Divina. Glory. Light. An access to eternity that doesn't look like the power and longevity we might have imagined. I think that Jesus is inviting us to listen very deeply here. I remember my high school French teacher setting out to teach us […] The post The Glory that Comes from God: Lectio Divina: John 12: 27-43 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
In this series, we begin exploring seven convictions that define who we are and guide what we do.Convictions are firmly held, personal or corporate beliefs. Convictions are core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.Our vision at Neighbors is simple in response to Jesus' prayer… “In San Diego as it is in heaven…” We do this by Being with JesusBecoming like JesusDoing what Jesus didThe operating system behind all of this though is our convictions. Ultimately, we live our core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.More info at sdneighbors.church
How do we lovingly tend to ourselves when we feel unappreciated, disrespected, and invalidated for who we are at our core?How do re-source ourselves and re-member who we are?Feeling unloved is a universal experience. We know every human has experienced it, and yet it can be so challenging to move through. As we approach this year's Venus Cazimi, in the middle of the Venus Retrograde, I shared my personal story growing up with bullying, what got me through, and what I learned about loving myself when I didn't receive the love I wanted from my surroundings.Special thanks to my mentor Ariana Felix who has been helping me remember the rigorous Practice of Love. I currently offer 2025 Astrology and Human Design readings, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
What medicine does hard astrology carry for us?How do we deepen our relationship with self, others, and the world through being with challenges?The hardship of life is often mirrored by astrology.One of the questions I consistently get as an astrologer is: "I'm going through something hard. Do you see that in my chart? What should I do to get out of it?"Usually, the answer is: yes, I see it in the chart.But whether the issue gets resolved through engaging astrology is a much trickier question. Sometimes, having astrological context inspires creative problem-solving. Other times, it leads into seemingly endless spirals of confusions, what-ifs, and so-whats – which can amplify feelings of powerlessness.In this episode, I shared my take on how to be with hard astrology.If you're feeling overwhelmed by the intense astrology of March 2025 – this one's for you. I currently offer 2025 Astrology and Human Design readings, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
A 19-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 8:12-20, using Lectio Divina. In this meditation on John's Gospel, I invite you to join me in taking a ‘long, loving look' at a few verses of text, beholding the words as living, shimmering, life-giving containers which hold endless layers of wisdom, mystery, beauty and truth. Just for these […] The post We Want to See Jesus: Lectio Divina: John 12:20-26 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
SummaryIn this conversation, Danielle Strickland and James Sholl engage with poet Drew Jackson, exploring his journey from a conservative Baptist background to his current role at the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC). They discuss the intersection of poetry, spirituality, and social justice, emphasizing how poetry serves as a powerful tool for questioning dominant narratives and fostering deeper connections with scripture and community. Drew shares his experiences of using poetry as a means of spiritual practice and social commentary, highlighting the risks involved in speaking out against societal injustices. In this conversation, Drew Jackson and Danielle Strickland explore the profound impact of poetry as a means of prophetic witness and truth-telling. They discuss the importance of maintaining hope and emotional health amidst societal challenges, the legacy of black writers, and the transformative power of scripture when approached through a poetic lens. The dialogue emphasizes the need for resistance against cultural powers and the significance of community connection in fostering resilience and vitality.TakeawaysDrew Jackson is a poet and Managing Director at CAC.His poetry serves as a spiritual practice and social commentary.Contemplation and justice are deeply intertwined in his work.Poetry invites questions rather than providing answers.Drew's background influences his approach to spirituality and poetry.He emphasizes the political nature of poetry.Drew's work has helped others reconnect with scripture.The pandemic prompted Drew to explore poetry more deeply.He faces risks in addressing social issues through his poetry.Drew believes he speaks not alone, but as part of a larger tradition. Drew Jackson feels a connection to the lineage of black writers.Writing is a communal act, influenced by past and present voices.Prophetic witness reveals uncomfortable truths about society.Resistance to truth is expected in the journey of a prophet.Contemplative practices are essential for maintaining hope.Emotional connection is vital for navigating societal challenges.Mantras can help reinforce a sense of unity and purpose.Cultural powers often push against our emotional health.Poetry can express doubts and fears that society wants to suppress.Scripture's poetic nature enriches its meaning and relevance.Sound Bites"I found poetry to be a balm for me.""Poetry is a political act.""Poetry is telling it slant.""Poetry invites us to drop our defenses.""I don't write alone.""We should expect resistance.""We need one another to feel it all.""Christ is all and is in all."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Drew Jackson03:00 Drew's Journey and Role at CAC06:01 The Influence of Contemplation on Justice08:58 Drew's Connection to Poetry and Spirituality11:59 The Role of Poetry in Social Commentary14:56 The Power of Questions in Poetry17:56 Navigating Risks as a Poet20:56 The Impact of Poetry on Faith and Community25:22 The Legacy of Black Writers and Poets27:03 The Role of Prophetic Witness in Poetry28:46 Practices for Maintaining Hope and Vitality30:35 The Gift of Tears and Emotional Connection32:51 Practicing Mantras for Connection and Hope34:58 Resistance Training Against Cultural Powers37:33 The Depth of Scripture and Poetic Interpretation40:40 The Transformative Power of Poetry in Scripture45:51 Engaging with Drew Jackson's Work Get full access to Right Side Up: Danielle Strickland at daniellestrickland.substack.com/subscribe
In this series, we begin exploring seven convictions that define who we are and guide what we do.Convictions are firmly held, personal or corporate beliefs. Convictions are core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.Our vision at Neighbors is simple in response to Jesus' prayer… “In San Diego as it is in heaven…” We do this by Being with JesusBecoming like JesusDoing what Jesus didThe operating system behind all of this though is our convictions. Ultimately, we live our core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.More info at sdneighbors.church
In this series, we begin exploring seven convictions that define who we are and guide what we do.Convictions are firmly held, personal or corporate beliefs. Convictions are core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.Our vision at Neighbors is simple in response to Jesus' prayer… “In San Diego as it is in heaven…” We do this by Being with JesusBecoming like JesusDoing what Jesus didThe operating system behind all of this though is our convictions. Ultimately, we live our core principles rooted in personal values, moral standpoints, and social standards.More info at sdneighbors.church
What does it mean to understand Venus as the Intimate Benefic?What might Venus in Aries teach us about confronting and advocating for our desires? Our guest today, Suprasensory Shahir, is one of my favorite emissaries of Venus. Naturally, Shahir offers deep insights and generous, expansive perspectives on the current Venus Retrograde in Aries and Pisces we're experiencing.We discussed Shahir's perspectives on the planetary retrograde phenomenon, cultivating Venusian qualities in one's self and one's communities when Venusian influences feel scarce in the collective field, and reckoning with our interior parts.Suprasensory Shahir is a love devotee mystic. A queer Muslim astrologer-diviner currently based in their motherland in Southeast Asia.They write on their substack 'love as origin, love as destination, love as intermediacy' and have appeared on multiple astrology and spiritual podcasts with their beloved communities.For this episode, Shahir has an aries venus retrograde in the 5th House of Fortune - the planetary joy of Venus.Resources Mentioned:Shahir's Venus Embodiment series (including a conversation with me on Venus in Aquarius)Pallas K. Augustine's Venus Retrograde workbook WHEN THE WATERS COMEShahir's collaboration with Britten LaRue The Magician's Table 2025 Work 1:1 with me! I currently offer 2025 Astrology and Human Design readings, designed to help you live in deeper harmony with your unique flow.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
Send us a textToday we explore photography and how it can be a doorway into contemplative spirituality. As we have increasing access to photos on our phones, we hope this episode inspires you to engage in new ways.Resources mentioned in this episode: The Practice of Contemplative Photography by Andy Karr & Michael WoodsJameshazelwood.net/blogMiksang.comConnect with Ann:usheringgrace@gmail.com https://www.mkespiritualdirectors.com/find-a-spiritual-directorhttps://www.sdicompanions.org/find-a-spiritual-director-companion/Support the show
A 24-minute audio guided meditation in John's Gospel, John 12:1-11, using imaginative contemplation. In this meditation on John's Gospel, I invite you to join me in taking a ‘long, loving look' at a few verses of text, beholding the words as living, shimmering, life-giving containers which hold endless layers of wisdom, mystery, beauty and truth. Just for these […] The post Mary Anoints Jesus' Feet: Imaginative Contemplation: John 12:1-11 appeared first on Contemplative at Home.
The theme for March 2025 is Rooting Into The Cycles of Life.How do we ground into our connection to the heart of earth amidst cyclical change?What does contrast teach us about reality? How do we honor the process of life? I currently offer 2025 Clarity Alchemy, a 2-session package designed to help you cut through the internal fog, clarify your desires and intentions for 2025, and connect with your internal compass. Book here.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
What questions and explorations are most relevant to us in 2025, given the astrology and energetic signatures? Who might we become in the face of upheaval and change?Over the course of two episodes, Kelsey Rose Tortorice and I are joining forces to discuss the astrology of 2025.On this episode, Part 1, we cover the undertones: Pluto, Neptune, Uranus, and Chiron.Meanwhile, Part 2, on Kelsey's podcast The Maia Games, covers the mid tones: Jupiter, Saturn, and The Lunar Nodes.With all three outer planets shifting signs, 2025 is a year of significant astrological changes. Over the past few years of knowing Kelsey, I've been deeply impacted by her perspectives, creative fluency with astrology, and visceral kinship with the outer planets. She was the first person that came to mind and this conversation was as electric as I dreamed them to be.Listen to Part 2 on Kelsey's podcast, The Maia Games.Timestamps:Kelsey's bio:Kelsey is a post-capitalist astrologer, teacher, human design experiMentor, and community initiator. Ruled by a 7th house Jupiter in Gemini, they are a student-teacher of the maia; seeking to understand and universalize the mechanics of reality within the context of individuality, relationship, cosmos, and consciousness as a whole. Kelsey's frequency facilitates upheaval; disrupting homogenized programming and re-orienting people to their differentiated truth and separateness as a means to arriving to connection & inherent wholeness. With reverence for differentiation and a knack for universalization, they embrace the simultaneous uniqueness and sameness of each human experience. Their work incorporates various modalities, frameworks, and spiritual teachings in honoring and navigating this apparent contradiction.Kelsey accompanies others on their journeys towards remembering what they Know, and invites deeper levels of autonomy, authenticity, faith, freedom, and surrender along the way.Kelsey's Links:Website: https://www.kelseyrosetort.com/IG: https://www.instagram.com/kelseyrosetort/ I currently offer 2025 Clarity Alchemy, a 2-session package designed to help you cut through the internal fog, clarify your desires and intentions for 2025, and connect with your internal compass. Book here.For private mentorship and coaching, apply here.Listen to & purchase my new song Friends on Bandcamp. You can also listen to it on your favorite streaming platforms.Try the incredible breathwork and meditation app Open for 30 days free using this special link. This podcast is hosted, produced, and edited by Jonathan Koe. Theme music is also composed by me! Connect with me through my newsletter, my Instagram @jonathankoeofficial, and my music. For podcast-related inquiries, email me at healingthespiritpodcast@gmail.com.
Lesson One of a beautiful, crash course on everything you need to know to move into a deeper, more fulfilling life of prayer according to the saints. This incredible series from Matthew Leonard will stream FREE this Lent.