• Compassion through Contemplation

    Compassion through Contemplation

    Article by Catherine Kerr (featured in November 2017 eNews) Compassion means to understand another’s pain at such a deep level that it’s like feeling it yourself. Many mentors have told me over the years that the essence of pastoral ministry is connection and presence, being with. One seminary professor liked to say that the most…

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  • The Isle of Iona: Definitely a Special Place

    The Isle of Iona: Definitely a Special Place

    Today’s post is by Leah Rampy “I’ve heard it called a ‘thin place,’” he told me. “I’m not sure that I believe that, so I want to see for myself.”  It sounded to my ears as if he’d laid down a challenge—to me, or the island, I wasn’t sure which. Coming from someone I respect,…

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  • Contemplation is the goal

    Contemplation is the goal of all life. It is knowledge by love. ~Bede Griffiths

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  • A Simple Path to Follow

    A Simple Path to Follow

    Today’s post is by Nancy Flinchbaugh Ancients created labyrinths thousands of years ago, and more recently, labyrinths again surfaced to help center and orient pilgrims on their life path. In the middle ages, labyrinths were laid in stone into the floors of cathedrals in Europe. The faithful, who couldn’t afford a journey to the holy land,…

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  • When we fall

    Both when we fall and when we get up again we are kept in the same precious love. ~Julian of Norwich

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  • Sisters on Retreat

    Sisters on Retreat

    Today’s post is by Francie Thayer My two (biological) sisters and I don’t get to be together all that often. We live in different time zones and have lives that make it tricky. But once a year we do get together—just us—for a “Sisters’ Convention.” For two or three days in various locations, we gather…

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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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