Shalem Institute Presents
Wednesday Respite
February 11, 2026; March 11, 2026; and April 8, 2026
7:00-8:00pm
Luther Place, 1226 Vermont Ave. NW, WDC 20005
Free & In-Person
A special series of free contemplative in person events designed to provide spiritual support and community for those navigating significant challenges and/or change during these extraordinary times.
During such periods of uncertainty, spiritual practice and supportive community can offer:
• A grounding presence when everything feels in flux
• Tools for discernment as you consider next steps
• Space to process emotions and find clarity
• Connection with others walking similar paths
February 11, 2026, 7-8pm: Labyrinth Walk with Jackson Droney
March 11, 2026, 7-8pm: Chanting for Grounding & Uplift with Anna Franklin
April 8, 2026, 7-8pm: Drumming the Beloved Community with Katy Gaughan
Labyrinth Walk with Jackson Droney (capacity 30 people)
February 11, 2026, 7-8pm
Spiritual seekers need not travel far to experience a pilgrim’s journey. Labyrinth walking can be a way to find your center during these tumultuous times. Join Jackson Droney for an indoor labyrinth walk on a beautiful 24 foot canvas labyrinth in the Santa Rose style. Our time together will include prayer and personal reflection.
Jackson Droney is Shalem’s Director of Operations and Online Learning, overseeing Shalem’s finances, HR, online courses, and all the nuts and bolts that make Shalem hum. He is a student at Luther Seminary and is a candidate for pastoral ministry in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA).
Chanting for Grounding and Uplift with Anna Franklin (capacity 30 people)
March 11, 2026, 7-8pm
It’s not about how we sound or whether with think of ourselves as “singers.” Everyone can use their voice—along with their breaths and minds—to experience chanting as spiritual practice. When we chant the names of the Divine or toward a particular intention or prayer, we remember Presence and give us ourselves the opportunity to be positively affected on a vibrational, cellular level. No experience needed; bring a cushion or yoga block if you would like to sit on the floor. Chairs provided otherwise.
Anna Franklin is a certified yoga and meditation instructor in several modalities and has been teaching since 2014. While Anna loves working with folks on mindfulness, mobility, strength, and injury recovery, she also enjoys infusing her practices with the spirit of the mystical tradition. A graduate of Shalem’s Transforming Communities Program, Anna also works on Shalem staff.
Drumming the Beloved Community with Katy Gaughan
April 8, 2026, 7-8pm
The drum is an instrument that invites us to connect to the rhythm that sustains us – our heartbeat. When we drum together, we get into sync and feel the joyous vibrations of our collective expression. Drumming is a great way to release stress and feel grounded in our body. Drums provided or bring your own. No experience necessary.
Check back soon for registration information.
Katy Gaughan is a drummer and drum circle facilitator who has been leading drum circles for over 25 years with her organization Drumming for Wellness. She is also a graduate of Shalem’s Transforming Community program and has served on Shalem’s staff for 20 years.