Articles on Contemplation in Action

  • Stillness and Silence as An African American Contemplative

    Stillness and Silence as An African American Contemplative

    The 2022 lecturer for the Gerald May Seminar was the Most Reverend Michael B. Curry who leads the U.S.-based Episcopal Church as Presiding Bishop. As the 27th Presiding Bishop, he is the first person of color – and African American – to serve in this role. During the seminar, Curry said more than once, “I…

    read more


  • Adventures in Leadership: from Sarge to Servant

    Adventures in Leadership: from Sarge to Servant

    Born on September 1, the second child but first of four girls, a Virgo, an ENFJ on the Myers-Briggs and, by adolescence, 5’ 10” tall, I found that leading was in my nature! From an early age, my siblings dubbed me “Sarge.” I ran for Student Council president in high school and was first chair…

    read more


  • Blessings Upon Blessings

    Blessings Upon Blessings

    There’s a wonderful, little-known story in the Bible about a frightened king who wants to curse his enemies (the Israelites encamped on his border), a sorcerer with a big ego, a sword-wielding angel of the Lord, and a talking donkey. One day the frightened king seeks out a famous sorcerer, Balaam, to come and curse…

    read more


  • Living Hospitality

    Living Hospitality

    The LORD appeared to Abraham by the terebinth of Mamre, as he sat in the entrance of his tent, while the day was growing hot. Looking up, Abraham saw three men standing nearby. When he saw them, he ran from the entrance of the tent to greet them; and bowing to the ground, he said:…

    read more


  • Solace Amid the Darkness

    Solace Amid the Darkness

    Life in 2020 felt almost apocalyptic with most things coming to a halt. In one respect, the world became eerily silent and void of social interaction, yet cries of grief, anguish, protest, and the banter of partisan opinions screamed at us daily. The highs and lows of 2020 were drastic. During the highs, the quiet…

    read more


  • How Long, Lord? How Long?

    How Long, Lord? How Long?

    How Long, Lord? How Long? Several weeks ago, I was in a Zoom meeting and got an urgent text from the church administrator: “There’s an active shooter in the neighborhood.” I hopped off the call and raced to the church. The daycare staff had already locked down their end of the building. So, we secured…

    read more



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.

Cancel