Articles on Community

  • “The Light shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” – John 1:5

    Shalem Institute invites you into a new special limited series: “Contemplation in Troubled Times” Minnesota’s example of courage and nonviolent action in the face of oppression is something we continue to witness and be in solidarity with as best we are able. It also extends beyond Minnesota to our brothers and sisters across the U.S. and around…

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  • Contemplation Through Our Shared Humanity

    In these months of federal occupation in Minneapolis, as a person of faith and as a pastor, I have relearned that contemplation is connection – rather than, as I have sometimes been tempted in the past to believe, contemplation being withdrawal. Partly because of the unpredictability of each day during this stretch, contemplation for me…

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  • Board Update on Executive Director Search

    Dear Friends, As the Shalem Institute looks toward its next season of leadership, we are invited into a moment that is both grounded and generative—grounded in the contemplative vision of our founder, Tilden Edwards, and generative in responding faithfully to the spiritual hunger and complexity of our present time. The search for a new Executive…

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  • Blessed is the One Who Endures Temptation

    “Blessed is the one who endures temptation, for when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.” — James 1:12 I had never been to a Bible study where participants were invited to share their reflections. Yet there I was, on…

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  • Who Will We Be? What Will We Become?

    Hinge points. I love a good hinge point – where things are unfixed, a pivot is around the corner and possibilities are screaming at us to take a second look. We as the collective in what is called these United States of America are in the midst of a massive hinge point; things that once…

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  • Shalem in Transition: A Time for Discernment

    Beloved, Grace and peace to you as we stand together at an important threshold in the life of our community. In Celtic tradition, thresholds are holy places. They are neither the place we have been nor yet the place we are going. They are liminal spaces—thin places—where the Spirit often feels closer, more active, and…

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Mission

Our mission is to nurture contemplative living and leadership.

Vision

In 2025, Shalem will be a dynamic and inclusive community, empowered by the Spirit, where seekers engage in transformation of themselves, their communities, and the world through spiritual growth, deep connection, and courageous action.

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