Sacred Space
In the midst of a busy life - find some 'Sacred Space'..
Is your life hectic and busy? Do you worry sometimes that the ladder you're
so frantically trying to climb might be leaning against the wrong wall? Do you
crave some occasional peace and quiet - and a sanctuary from the numerous
demands upon your time and energy? Well, a new type of service, called 'Sacred
Space', might be just for you...
During summer last year, when I was away on holiday, one of the church members, Phil Routley, led a contemplative service, the basis of which was an hour of guided silence. Whilst some people, perhaps more used to a 'normal' church service, struggled to cope with the silence, a number of others found it a particularly refreshing experience.
So now 'Sacred Space' has been become a regular part of our programme. It takes place on the first Sunday of the month, from 5.30pm until 6.30pm (although the Chapel doors open at 5.00pm when refreshments are available). The hour is split into three parts - and each part is initiated with the same short phrase. The details of the next two services are:
- Sun 1st February - 'Be still and know that I am God' (Psalm 46:10)
- Sun 1st March - 'Consider your way of life' (Haggai 1:5)
There's a story in the Bible about a guy called Elijah - he's going through a tough time and he longs to hear God's voice. As he sits depressed in a cave, a hurricane rages outside. Then there's an earthquake, and after that there's a forest fire. But in the midst all of these loud and dramatic events, Elijah is unaware of God's presence. But the hurricane, earthquake and fire are followed by a gentle whisper - and it is in the quietness that Elijah is able to hear God speak to him. (See 1 Kings 19:9-13 for the whole story).
In church - even if the music is modern and exciting, and the preacher's talk interesting - it can sometimes seem like a one-way conversation where we do all the talking, and God is unable to get a word in. The silence of 'Sacred Space', however, gives us an opportunity to do a bit of listening, and perhaps to hear that still small voice as we seek God's comfort or guidance.
All are welcome to attend these events - nothing will be expected or asked of you except from sitting in silence for an hour - so feel free to just turn up. If you'd like more information, however, then please contact me (details below). Phil, who is leading the services, has very helpfully put together some information about 'Sacred Space' and I would be happy to pass that on to you.