February 6, 13, 20, & 27
9:45 a.m. in Galbreath Chapel & Zoom
Christianity is a religion grounded in vivid personal and communal experiences of God. The Bible is filled with stories of these mystical experiences, and deep, mystical experiences have been at the core of almost every major Christian movement sparked by people like St. Patrick, St. Francis, Teresa of Avila, Martin Luther, John Calvin, George Fox, Corrie ten Boom, Catherine Marshall, Dorothy Day, Martin Luther King Jr., Desmond Tutu, and more.
February 6 - What Is a Christian Mystic?
We’ll gain a general understanding of the history of Christian spirituality and experience.
February 13 -- The Foundations for a Mystical Life
We’ll be introduced to the foundational insights of Christian mysticism, concepts such as faith, humility, surrender, living in the present moment, seeking divine union, prayer, discernment, and much more.
February 20 -- Stories of the Mystics
We’ll hear and discuss the experiences of those regarded as mystics of Christian history, and explore how to translate their experiences into our lives.
February 27 -- Becoming a Practical Mystic
There are certain perspectives, attitudes, and practices that nurture us to form a deeper mystical awareness and life. This class will explore how to adopt them in ways that still allow us to live healthy, active lives.
We are honored to welcome back the Rev. Dr. Graham Standish to present this most intriguing series. He is executive director of Samaritan Counseling, Guidance, and Consulting and director of their Caring for Clergy and Congregations program. He is the author of numerous books on Christian spirituality and congregational transformation. He has been an adjunct professor at Pittsburgh Theological Seminary, a spiritual director and clergy coach, and pastor of dynamic and growing churches for over 33 years.
Westminster Seminars
In Person and Online
Sundays, 9:45 – 10:30 a.m.
Galbreath Chapel & Zoom
The Westminster Seminars address, in various ways, how our beliefs and practices as Christians enrich our lives in today’s culture. Everyone is welcome – come every week or whenever the topic appeals and your schedule allows. If you can’t join in person or on Zoom, plan to watch or listen later on the Westminster website here.
The Zoom meeting opens at 9:30 for greetings and conversation. Find the link on the church website under Featured Events or in the Friday church email.