Clergy Cafe
“I can hear from the whisper of the winds the sound of Thy glorification and praise and can recognize in the murmur of the waters the voice that proclaimeth Thy virtues and Thine attributes, and can apprehend from the rustling of the leaves the mysteries that have been irrevocably ordained by Thee in Thy realm. ” ~The Baha'u'llah (the Glory of God) sacred scriptures of the Baha'i
The work of clergy people can be isolating and tiring. It is hard to encounter new ideas while keeping up with the demands of the synagogue or parish. Growing congregations present one kind of problem, and shrinking congregations present another kind, but either way this life of service can be hard on those who choose it.
There are many clergy who care passionately about the state of the Earth and other issues of the day, but they wonder how they can meet the needs of the people in their congregations, prepare for worship every week, and bring enlivening messages of hope, courage and commitment about the burning issues of the day. It all seems a little too much.
The Clergy Cafe is a gathering of clergy and seminary faculty that meets rougly four times per year. Its purpose is to nourish the bodies, minds and spirits of colleagues in ministry, with a good lunch and a good conversation. Participants are from many faith traditions - all clergy and members of the academy are welcome. Conversations have included biological emergence, what happens when we pray, and family systems analysis of the congregation. While this gathering is intended to be open, the times, dates and locations of meetings vary, and the content of meetings varies as well. If you are interested in joining the conversation, please contact us.
Related Links
Hope CSA - The Hope CSA is a Community Supported Agriculture Farm that provides guided retreats for clergy. Located in northern Indiana, about an hour south of South Bend, the farm produces organic food and food for the soul. Spend a half day working the land - tending the organic vegetables, and the rest of your overnight visit in reading, reflection and prayer.
Jubilee Farm - Jubilee Farm is a center for ecology and spirituality run by Benicasa Ministries, a ministry of the Dominican Sisters near Springfield, Illinois. Programs include spiritual direction and other activities, daytime or overnight accomodations for private or directed retreats, and more on the organic farm and orchard.