Soul Care Days: A Reflection and Invitation

On July 8, a group of pastors, nonprofit leaders, spiritual directors, and worship leaders gathered for something different—no conference agendas, no presentations or strategy
sessions, and zero icebreakers. Just a whole day intentionally set apart to slow down, practice silence, worship, and listen.

Perhaps that description sounds intimidating or even uncomfortable. Something in you might even be resistant to the whole idea. Maybe you think it sounds good in theory, but
is it necessary? If that’s you, well, same here.

I love the idea of silence, quieting down, and making time for prayer. I think about it often. I even frequently encourage others to engage in these types of practices with all kinds of enthusiasm. I want to be the type of person who shifts from the logistics of life and ministry to contemplative practices with ease. I’m not.

It is a discipline for me to show up with all my insecurities, relationship tensions, and unfinished tasks, determined to do time away with God the “right” way. That’s how I showed up to the July 8 Soul Care Day for Ministry Leaders, guarded and a little resistant. And I was one of the hosts!

For me, the day was a gift, but it wasn’t easy. It was an invitation to be open to whatever the Sprit would or wouldn’t do. Whatever it would mean for the day to be a success wasn’t up to me and that, surprisingly, was the gift. Maybe it would be a gift for you too.

Reflecting on the event, participants were surprised at how open the conversations were, the depth of exploration we shared, and the themes that emerged. Like me, some noted that it was difficult to slow down. It took time to fully arrive. They felt the resistance in themselves too.

But also like me, the prevailing feeling was that of gratitude and a sense of feeling honored to simply witness the Spirit’s work among us. It may not be easy, but it’s the
kind of difficult that often brings delightful surprises. Coming from someone who know the feeling of resistance well, I encourage you to give it a try.

If you missed out on the July gathering, consider this your official, zero-guilt invitation to the next one on Wednesday, September 23.
Registration is now open and you can reserve your spot here.