Letter to Church Leaders

Friends,

 

Thank you for all you do to provide spiritual care and prophetic challenge for your congregation. As a pastor serving in parish ministry for more than 30 years, I very much appreciate the leadership all pastors and coordinators provide at this moment in time. Thank you for your faithfulness.

 

I am writing to introduce you to a free resource for your ministry. It has the potential to help both you and those you serve to grow spiritually by experiencing the transforming love of God at a deep level. Contemplative Outreach of Central Iowa is offering to come to your congregation, at no charge, to conduct an introductory workshop on Centering Prayer.

 

Centering Prayer is a simple form of contemplative prayer deeply rooted in the ancient Christian tradition. Centering Prayer practice has been a key daily spiritual discipline for me since 1997 (along with scripture reading and intercessory prayer). Many churches that I served hosted introductory centering prayer workshops and have had on-going Centering Prayer groups, including Central Presbyterian and Plymouth UCC in Des Moines and Covenant Christian Church in Urbandale. Those who commit to the practice often discover the fruits of the spirit (especially peace, gentleness, patience, and self-control) becoming increasingly abundant in their lives.

 

I invite you to consider sponsoring an introductory Centering Prayer workshop for your congregation/community. Contemplative Outreach of Central Iowa (which extends to Ames and surrounding areas) will not only conduct the workshop but will be available to lead a four-session follow up, to support those who want to continue practicing Centering Prayer. If you are interested in learning more about hosting an introductory workshop, email Kathleen Schiltz at kathleengrace55@gmail.com or Jim Egger at james.egger@gmail.com.

 

Centering Prayer has been a true blessing in my life. Maybe the same would be true for you and those you serve, as well. 

 

Grace and Peace,

Pastor Paul Witmer