Contemplative Spiritual Practices at GSCCC
Sophia Chan-Szeto, Assistant Pastor
Good Shepherd's Chinese Christian Church
Check out this short 4 minute video, the fourth video in our series on
Contemplative Spiritual Practices as a Congregational Focus.
Recommended Resource
Into the Silent Land: A Guide to the Christian Practice of Contemplation
by Martin Laird
Sitting in stillness, the practice of meditation, and the cultivation of awareness are commonly thought to be the preserves of Hindus and Buddhists. Martin Laird shows that the Christian tradition of contemplation has its own refined teachings on using a prayer word to focus the mind, working with the breath to cultivate stillness, and the practice of inner vigilance or awareness. While useful for those just starting out, this book serves especially as a guide for those who desire to journey yet deeper into the silence of God.
Upcoming Events and Resources
2024 Wesley Conference
Wednesday, April 24, 2024 | 10:00am-4:00pm
Tyndale University | Toronto, ON
In-Person: $79.10 | Online: $28.25
Since 2009, Tyndale Seminary has gathered local scholars, students, and church leaders for an annual Wesley Studies Symposium. The symposium exists to highlight and foster scholarly work on the Wesleyan tradition, as well as research on related topics undertaken by Wesleyans, with a particular focus on Canadian contributions. Our presenters have included senior scholars, emerging scholars, pastors, and students. This year, in addition to our usual slate of high-quality academic papers, we will also feature some more ministry-oriented breakout groups.
RESEARCH INVITATION
Meeting Adversity with Resilience: Understanding the Impact of Adverse Ministry Experiences
You are invited to participate in a new research study on pastor and pastor spouse wellbeing, entitled Meeting Adversity with Resilience: Understanding the Impact of Adverse Ministry Experiences. This study is being conducted by Dr. Margaret Clarke and Dr. Marcus Tanner of the Clergy Research Group with the goal of increased understanding of the impact of adverse ministry experiences on clergy and their spouses and their path of recovery.
The online survey takes approximately 10 min to complete is open to any Canadian or US clergy or clergy spouses and is open until May 31, 2024.
Catholic Parish Summit
June 12-14, 2024 | Harrogate, UK
Individual - Basic: £199
Individual - Premium: £249
Under 30: £130
Sending disciples. Equipping leaders. Launching transformation. The Catholic Parish Summit is about inspiring parish leaders with a vision of a renewed Church that is missionary and apostolic at its core, and equipping them to cast off their parishes into mission — so that they can bring people to Jesus. If you’re involved in parish ministry in any way, this summit is for you.
Whether you’re a priest, pastoral worker, bishop, ministry leader, deacon, or a Catholic who desires more for your parish — there’s a seat for you at CPS.
The Global Leadership Summit 2024
August 8-9, 2024 | October 17-18, 2024 | Early Bird Pricing: Online - $179 USD
In-Person - $179 CAD (various cities)
The overwhelming question facing organizations across Canada is, “Where is the next generation of leaders?” Effective leaders are built through experience and insightful training. Investing in the GLS annually will expose your developing leaders to an environment and tools that will accelerate their growth.
As you plan your summer and fall, be sure to get GLS dates in your calendar now.