visioning sessions. The sessions held on 6/7 and 6/9 served as a kick off to our CSL-B search for a new Senior Minister.  The sessions were well attended and productive, and a rich body of information has been collected to begin shaping our vision. 
 
The visioning process was based on Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith's "Visioning Workbook" and we divided the session into three parts. In the first part, Reverend Colleen MacGilchrist led participants through a guided affirmative prayer process to create a quiet space of contemplation and meditation.  Worksheets with prompt questions were provided to each person, and as the questions were asked, participants wrote ideas and intentions about candidate qualifications, qualities, and visions for CSL-B. 
 
After the reflection and prayer ended, we began the second part with small group sharing and debriefing.  Individuals were invited to share their responses with each other and make a list of common and unique themes, ideas and intentions within the small group.
 
Finally, the large group came together and each small group presented their lists.  Lists were posted on the wall and each person was given a series of sticky dots to "vote" for those qualities, qualifications or evolutionary ideas for CSL-B that were most important to them. There were a number of key themes that emerged from the reflection and discussions.   The conversation was lively and very thoughtful with some good humor thrown in!
 
Our next step with the search process is to compile the information from the visioning sessions.  All lists as well as the individual worksheets were collected and will be summarized and organized.  Once the information is compiled and key themes are identified, a report will first be given to the Board of Trustees (likely at the July board meeting).  Reverend Colleen and I will also make that information available to the larger congregation after the board meeting.
 
Several individuals who attended the visioning sessions also expressed an interest in participating in the search committee and received applications.  Applications must be postmarked by June 30th to be considered; our goal is to present recommendations for search committee members to the board at the July board meeting for their approval.
 
Thank you everyone for an exciting kick off to the ministerial search process.  We will keep you informed as we move forward together! 
 
Peace and Blessings!  Ronna   

7/12 "The Power of Prayer" -Colleen MacGilchrist

7/19 "Full-Filled" 

-Abdul Bashir

 

 

 

 Slow down, be still, expand your awareness, and rejoice in the connection to Self. Join Jeni Miller, Megan McGeowin and Anana Integre for an evening meditation monthly on Wednesday,  7:00-8:30pm. This is an opportunity for those who are new to meditation as well as those who have a regular practice. The evening will include guided meditation, silence, chanting, crystal bowl work, and a Pure Light Blessing (Diksha). The Pure Light Blessing is an ancient physical energy transference of Divine Light into the brain that initiates enlightenment. Although there is no charge for the meditation, donations are gratefully accepted and will be shared with CSL-B.