Led by Rev. Alan Seale.
When: The first Sunday of the October, November, and December at 8am in the Sanctuary
Contemplation has been described as “a long loving look at the real” and “a pure intuition of being, born of love” (21st-century mystic William McNamara).
Please join Rev. Alan Seale in the FRS Sanctuary for a half-hour contemplative worship service at 8am on the first Sundays of October, November, and December. The Sanctuary will be open to welcome you at 7:50 am.
In our fast-paced lives, we cover a lot of ground on the outside, yet too often give little attention to our inner world—to what really matters deep in the heart of our being. Contemplation is a practice of intentional observation, consideration, and reflection—a practice of being fully present with all your inner and outer senses as you bring focus to what is asking for your attention. It begins with slowing down and quieting the mind and body to make space for focus and stillness. Intention is the key. It’s not “thinking about your feelings,” but rather “feeling the deeper layers and meaning of your thoughts.”
What is “contemplative worship”?
The word “worship” has its roots in the Old English word worðscip, meaning “to be worthy.” Within that context, we could say that the root meaning of “worship” is “giving respect and honor to that which is worthy of our attention, worthy of our focus, worthy of our presence and consideration.”
What does it mean to “touch the sacred within”?
Comparative religion scholar Huston Smith said what makes a place or experience sacred is that it evokes the sacred within you. As we come together for contemplative worship, may you touch the sacred within yourself and within Life, whatever that means to you. May you find a sense of stillness, rest, and peace that can bring strength, clarity, compassion, resilience, and truth to the living of your days.
If you wish to explore a little deeper, see Alan Seale’s essay “The Art and Practice of Contemplation” published September 12, 2024 on his Substack: https://alanseale.substack.com/