October Practice: Kindness
Perhaps the foremost value that Americans cite as central to democracy is equality—that we’re all created equal. Americans also value placing the good of the country and its collective citizenry above individual interests. A third core value of American democracy is expressed by the national motto E Pluribus Unum, “Out of many—one.” This motto was adopted by the U.S. Congress in 1782 and started appearing on coins in 1786. In its most literal sense, the motto means that a single nation emerged from the union of the thirteen colonies.
Into the Arms of Abba: 3-Day Silent Directed Retreat
"See how very much your Father loves you, for he calls you his little girl, and that is what you are!"
I John 3:1
Join a small group of like-hearted women as you get away from the busyness of life and into our Abba's arms.
Upswell 2019
A gathering to help build, equip, and inspire a community of changemakers devoted to the common good.
Fetzer is a major sponsor of Upswell and will be present at the Public Square gathering space for attendees. We will also be presenting aspects of the Study of Spirituality in America as part of the panel "The Changing Landscape of Religion, Spirituality, and Identity in America."
The Wisdom of the Mystics with Mirabai Starr
Mysticism is, simply, an experience of God. Not a theory or concept – but a lived sense of the Divine Presence that unites all of creation. Mirabai Starr writes, speaks and leads retreats on the inter-spiritual teachings of the mystics from many traditions and enables you explore how their wisdom and insights can help you to clarify and honor your own Holy Longing.
Winter Yin Yoga and Meditation Retreat
It is our natural rhythm to slow down and be more reflective in the winter months of rest and rejuvenation. Join Cynthia and Kristin for a weekend of Yin Yoga and Meditation, guided with openness and acceptance, to support this contemplative season as we dive deeper into witnessing the body and mind through slow movement and stillness. During this retreat, we will hold the intention to be present in our experience of the mind/body connection as we move towards inner peace and our personal resolve for 2020. No previous yoga experience is necessary—all are welcome.
Telling Stories with Soul: Meet the 2019 ivoh Fellows
Journalists, in their role as storytellers, can sometimes become emotionally hardened from crafting stories about social injustice, breach of trust, fear, and violence. Life’s daily kindnesses and community triumphs aren’t always easy tales to find.
GilChrist Storytelling Session
6:30-830 p.m. Tues. Aug. 20
As we anticipate the 25th anniversary of GilChrist Retreat Center in 2020, please join us for one of two storytelling and story-gathering sessions this summer! Come prepared to share a 5-7 minute story about your time at GilChrist or just listen. Light refreshments will be available.
Please RSVP by e-mail (gilchrist@fetzer.org) or phone (269-244-1130).
The next session will be held on Thursday, September 12 from 3:00-5:00pm.
GilChrist Storytelling Session
As we anticipate the 25th anniversary of GilChrist Retreat Center in 2020, please join us for one of two storytelling and story-gathering sessions this summer! Come prepared to share a 5-7 minute story about your time at GilChrist or just listen. Light refreshments will be available.
Please RSVP by e-mail (gilchrist@fetzer.org) or phone (269-244-1130).
Discernment at Crossroads and Life Transitions
Are you at a crossroads or in the midst of a life transition?
Are you facing the challenge of making decisions that are not clear-cut but nuanced with a variety of factors?
How does being more aware of how God is active, present, and inviting in our daily life help us to make these decisions with increasingly greater faithfulness to God’s desires and our own passions?
Practicing Democracy at Home
“The human heart is the first home of democracy,” observes American author Terry Tempest Williams. “It is where we embrace our questions. Can we be equitable? Can we be generous? Can we listen with our whole beings, not just our minds, and offer our attention rather than our opinions?” In our actual homes, these questions can serve as guidelines for our relationships with our family and housemates. Here are 14 suggestions for household activities that promote democratic values.