Hagerstown Church of the Brethren
15 S. Mulberry St., Hagerstown, MD 21740
Phone: 301-733-3565 * FAX: 301-733-3598

"Church in the Heart of the City with the City at Heart"
Continuing the work of Jesus. Peacefully. Simply. Together.

Group Spiritual Direction 2012-2013

Sacred Listening Circles

Growing in the spiritual life is something we often take for granted in the church. We assume that every Christian will come closer to God simply by living and praying each day. But this is not always the case. Developing such a relationship with our Lord takes daily discipline as well as encouragement from others traveling the same road.
 

The Hagerstown Church of the Brethren through the Deacon ministry offers a small group experience in spiritual formation. Group Spiritual Direction is a monthly gathering for prayer, faith-sharing, and listening to the Spirit. You are invited to participate. The group starts in October and concludes in May, meeting in Room 301 of the Hagerstown Church of the Brethren, 15 S. Mulberry St. It is open to all Christians in our community.

Leadership. The group leaders are Rev. Ed Poling and Rev. Don Evason. Don is a United Church of Christ minister and former hospital chaplain. Ed is Pastor of the Hagerstown Church of the Brethren. Both Don and Ed are trained spiritual directors.

Schedule. All meetings will be held on Thursdays at the church.

October 4, 2012 3:00 – 9:00 pm 
    (Retreat format with bag lunch)

October 19, 2012 6:00—9:00 pm

November 1, 2012 6:00—9:00 pm

December 6, 2012 6:00—9:00 pm

January 3, 2013 6:00—9:00 pm

February 7, 2013 6:00—9:00 pm

March 7, 2013 6:00—9:00 pm

(Easter is on March 31, 2013)

April 4, 2013 6:00—9:00 pm

May 2, 2013 3:00—9:00 pm
     (Retreat format with bag lunch)

What is Needed to Participate. Three conditions are essential to the life of the group. All participants must be willing to—

  • Commit themselves to an honest relationship with God. 
  • Attend the meetings regularly.
  • Enter into the group process through prayerful listening and response, opening their journeys for reflection with others.

Readings. Each participant is asked to read a book on the spiritual life. This year’s book is A New Harmony: The Spirit, the Earth, and the Human Soul by John Philip Newell.

Introductory/Orientation Meeting. A special meeting will be help on Tuesday, September 11 at 7:00 pm for those who want to learn more about group spiritual direction.

Signing-Up.  If you have questions or want to sign-up for this adventure in the spiritual life, contact Pastor Ed at 301-733-3565.