Seekers of God However Known is a UCG program focused on fostering spiritual growth by exploring a variety of spiritual topics, concepts, practices, and perspectives. Sessions may consist of a one-time session or a series of two or more sessions on a particular topic or spiritual practice. At least 20 minutes of the 45-minute session will be devoted to presenting a topic, and the remainder of the time will involve participant discussions to reflect on how the topic applies to, and/or might be integrated into, their own lives.
Sessions will take place on Sundays from 9 – 9:45 a.m. in Reimer Hall unless otherwise noted. Everyone is welcome. Participants do not have to register, attend regularly (even if a series is offered), or read in advance for any session.
March Sessions
March 1 – with Rev. Dr. David Aune
“What is “holy” about the Holy Spirit?”: As is well known, the God of the Hebrew and Christian Scriptures is portrayed as a Spirit who breathes life into all living things. But why is this breath of God also described in a personal way as the Holy Spirit? What are some attributes or qualities that can be imparted to those who are receptive to this divine presence? And what about often overlooked aspects of “holiness” such as justice and the alleviation of suffering? In this session, we will consider selected Biblical texts describing characteristics and activities of the Holy Spirit. Participants will then be asked to share about their understanding and/or experiences of God’s Spirit (however known) in their lives.
March 8 – with Flo Turcotte
“Lean into Lent: The origins and practice of Lenten observances.” The 40 days preceding Holy Week and Easter are commonly referred to as Lent, beginning with Ash Wednesday (February 18 this year), and ending on Palm Sunday (March 29 this year). Flo will describe the historical origins of Lenten practices and how you can benefit from your own interpretation of these traditions, “however known.”
March 15 – with Rev. Daniel Webster
“Repentance”: The season of Lent has its own 3 R’s – Reflection, Repentance, and Renewal. We are going to focus on the middle R – Repentance, while recognizing repentance arises out of reflection and possibly leading to renewal. Jesus began his ministry preaching repentance. What is repentance? Why repent? How do we do it? We’ll explore these topics together.
March 22 – with Rev. Chad McGinnis
“Courage, Compassion, and the Common Good: A Contemplative Look at Advocacy”: This session is an invitation to wrestle with the truth that faith is never meant to be passive. Our spiritual lives call us into the public square – not to seek power for its own sake, but to stand with those whose voices are ignored, to confront systems that harm, and to work for a world that reflects justice and mercy. Together, we’ll explore how our faith traditions can ground us, embolden us, and push us beyond comfort as we engage in political action for the sake of the common good.
March 29 – with John Harvey
“Forgiveness sets us free.” As shared by spiritual writer Esther de Waal, “Forgiveness is needed at two levels. First that I am forgiven, which frees me from guilt; and secondly that I forgive, which frees me from anger. Unless we forgive, we cannot be free.” We will consider God’s forgiveness of us, others forgiveness of us, our forgiveness of others, and our forgiveness of ourselves. John suggests that forgiveness with our mind is incomplete and may be more like a rationalization for our actions and actions of others, and forgiveness with our heart is much deeper and can be life changing. Note: Rev. Amy Rixx had to postpone so John will be leading this week.