Dear Friends, Since it was first described in the 1940s, Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs has been an underlying reason for most outreach efforts by civic groups and religions. The bottom of the pyramid is first and foremost: the need for food, water, and shelter in order to survive. When those are met, the next most important need is for safety. For those who cannot provide these needs on their own, outreach efforts are established to help so that all society will be better. Food pantries, homeless shelters, victims' shelters, and clothing drives all fit in these categories, for example. Often, that is were outreach stops. The middle rung - love and belonging - may be a little less tangible. But that is Middleway's unique goal -- to provide a place of peace, comfort and hope where all people are loved and part of community. It's of major importance for individuals and for society to reach the level of love and belonging. We offer a variety of ways to find a community at Middleway, on the way to becoming the person God made you to be. Pick one or more to enjoy this season!
Spirituality of Breadmaking Holiday Breakfast Bread REGISTER NOW BELOW! Our third in the Spirituality of Breadmaking series this year is all about crafting a delicious delight for holiday mornings -- cranberry scones! Gather next Saturday, Dec. 2, 9 :30-11 a.m. to share ingredients, utensils and good conversation, with a soulful exercise in the mix, led by Kathleen Phillips. Give yourself 1-1/2 hours to treat your soul to start the holiday season. Plus, you'll leave with 16 ready-to-bake scones. Let us know by Wednesday Nov. 29 that you're coming so we have enough supplies ready.
Interfaith Prayer Gathering Join us as we remember God in Unity. Dec. 2, 1 p.m.
God and Dog Tuesday Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. is the next God and Dog Gathering, so get your favorite pup and come. Or, come even if you love dogs but can't bring one at this time. The group meets monthly on the first Tuesday, led by Kathleen Phillips. Together with our dog(s), we talk and engage in activities aimed at understanding what it is about dogs that help us relate to God. Currently we have started gathering resources, books, online references and such that refer to how dogs - and all animals - can positively impact our spiritual lives. So if you see something like that to share, bring it. Spread the word to let your dog-loving friends and family know, too.
Common Threads Common Threads is a monthly group for people to share life's stories. Some bring thread projects - crochet, knitting, stitching, mending, etc. - to do while talking and listening, but that is not required. The next meeting is Wednesday, Dec. 13 at 1:30 p.m.
Friday Meditation and Mindfulness Center yourself and find peace in the midst of your busy life. Friday Meditation and Mindfulness, led by Becky Burks, meets monthly during the noon hour at 12:30 p.m. Next time is Friday, Dec. 15.
Chanting the Psalms and Contemplative Sit Deepen your spirituality by chanting the psalms. Led by Amy Thompson, this features Anglican and Gregorian chants using Psalms, followed by a 20-minute meditative sit (or centering). The next gathering is Sunday Dec. 17, 2-3 p.m. Let us know you're coming!
Jingle Mingle Calling all volunteers, friends, supporters, those who've attend a program or ever walked inside, and those who want to be any of the above. Wednesday, Dec. 20, 2 p.m. In other words, everyone is invited to come mingle amongst good people, seasonal music, wassail, and nibbles. It is our thank you for everyone who has made another year possible at Middleway!
Drum Circle Join us for Drum Circle on Sunday, Dec. 23 at 2 p.m., led by Amy Thompson. Drumming is a way to connect with the rhythm of life and find balance, wholeness and connection. No musical experience is necessary. Drums are provided. Click below to let us know you're coming.
We've had an Epiphany! The 2nd annual Celtic Women's Christmas will be Saturday, Jan. 6 and will feature Sweet Strings on the Brazos dulcimer performance. Celtic Women's Christmas is a tradition in Ireland, where women come together on Epiphany for a little celebration of their own after preparing and providing Christmas gifts, food and goodies for others all season long. At Middleway, we love learning about - and experiencing - traditions from other cultures. We invite all women to attend. Being of Irish or of Celtic background is not required.
Bryan-College Station Area Spiritual Directors' Gathering The next gathering is Wednesday, Nov. 29. Ordinarily the group meets on the fourth Wednesday of each month but was moved in November to accommodate the Thanksgiving holiday. Amy Brunt Thompson will lead this month's discussion. A zoom link will be provided to the group email list. If you are not yet on the list, contact info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org. There will not be a December meeting. The next meeting will be Jan. 24. All spiritual directors are encouraged to attend monthly gatherings for conversation and dialogue about the unique ministry of listening with a holy ear.
Grupo de Oracion The monastery is open until 5 p.m. on Thursdays with an emphasis on prayer time in Spanish, 3-5 p.m. Thursday afternoons are led by Rev. Ben Sanchez. All are welcome to come and offer or seek prayers. Sanchez is an Episcopal priest.
Spiritual directors lend a (holy) ear at Middleway A team of spiritual companions whose ministry is to listen to you with a holy ear are the backbone of Middleway. One of us can meet with you monthly in a non-judging atmosphere as you discern where God is in your life. We actively listen without trying to "fix" you. It's powerfully healing. See www.middlewayurbanmonastery.org/spiritual-direction. or email us at info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org for more information. How to experience the monastery Attend any of our programs for sure. But also know the monastery is also open weekdays Tuesday-Friday and some evenings, Saturdays or Sundays for you to come use the library, art area, or various sitting areas in a relaxing atmosphere where no one will bug you. Children are welcome to come with an adult. We need you! Three hours a month, week, or day. Regular or now-and-then. You pick what's convenient for you, then volunteer to help welcome others into this peaceful place. We are 100 percent volunteer operated, and you can make a meaningful impact just be being present. To sign up, please come by the monastery or email info@middlewayurbanmonastery.org. Middleway Urban Monastery's Guide for Life
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