Dear friends, I hope you are finding ways to keep your peace during the novel coronavirus crisis. I found myself seeking deeper anchors in my spiritual life to help me weather the storm, and I would love to share them with you.
Who is Jesus, really? Find out in an online Alpha course
Curious about Jesus? Wondering where God is in the midst of the global pandemic? Bring your curiosity and questions to my church's online Alpha course. Alpha is a safe and caring space to bring your honest questions, doubts and opinions about God, Jesus, faith from the comfort of your home. Over 30,000 people have already taken it. Now's your turn!
- Watch the introductory video
- Sign up at info@runnymedechurch.org
- Attend 10 weekly sessions starting Tuesday, May 19 at 7:30 PM ET
Liguorian Magazine Offer
Liguorian magazine, which have published several of my articles, are offering annual subscriptions at $20 US for the first one, and $15 US for each additional subscription. Why not bless yourself and a friend with one? They share:
A question we all struggle with in light of the current pandemic is how to make/maintain spiritual connections amid social separation? As a people of faith in solidarity during this crisis Liguori Publications is here to help! With more than a century of tradition, our flagship publication, Liguorian Magazine communicates timely pastoral messages on matters of faith, practices, Christian living, and social justice to help you navigate your faith in a rapidly changing world.
Take advantage of special pricing to deepen the bonds of faith and enjoy award-winning content with variety that speaks to the heart, mind, and soul. Click here to learn how to give yourself and your loved ones the gift of restored hope, inspiration and spiritual guidance—a gift that will be cherished long after this crisis ends. Print subscribers also receive FREE digital access*.
Prayer—especially during these challenging times—helps keep us interconnected. Know that the Redemptorists and staff at Liguori Publications are united with you in prayer.
*Digital access requires one-time registration at Liguori.org upon receipt of first print copy.
Take a 40 day Prayer Journey with Saint Ignatius' Spiritual Exercises
I asked my church friends to pray for my spiritual direction, and I was divinely led to this. Saint Ignatius was a knight who encountered God during a lengthy convalescence after a battle injury in the 1500's. He left the knighthood and was led to found the Society of Jesus (the spiritual order of the Jesuits) as he and his spiritual companions sought authentic ways to live out their faith in daily life. Discerning prayer became a foundation for the Jesuits, and I am following in his footsteps in this self-directed online course:
Pray the Scriptures
During these anxious times, Scripture has been a solace to me, especially Philippians 4:6-7. Simply meditating on and following this spiritual direction from Saint Paul is a powerful path to peace:
"Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." - Philippians 4:6-7, The Bible (New International Version)
Here are a few other favourite passages:
- The Psalms - There is a Psalm for every emotion we experience.
- Philippians - This short book is packed with encouragement and instruction on how to remain peaceful in trying times.
- 1 John - This letter is dense with God's love, and how it enables us to love others as we are loved.
- John - This poetic Gospel focuses on Jesus' life and teachings for our lives today.
For good Bible study materials, try The Bible App (Youversion) or The Bible Project.
Share your COVID-19 Spiritual Journey
Have you found fresh ways to deepen your spiritual journey during the coronavirus pandemic? Please contact me to share them. I wish you peace through the storm.
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