Spirituality | Episcopal Diocese of Western Michigan | (269) 381-2710


	The most important relationship we can have is a relationship with God. How we practice an intentional spirituality is the means by which we are in an intentional, ongoing relationship with God. In order to be attuned to the movement of the spirit and to discern the will of God, we must foster and maintain that intentional practice. Spiritual practices help us find our authentic selves. By striving to be our authentic selves, we exhibit that we can be everything God has created us to be; we show the glory of God, his grace, compassion, the hope, restoration and forgiveness of God. – The Rt. Rev. Whayne M. Hougland, Jr.

Parish Administration Resources Diocesan Staff Clergy Resources Worship Baptism and Confirmation Diocesan Budget & Finance Children & Youth Ministries & Missions Bishop's Video Page		We Are a People of Common Prayer Developing a daily prayer practice is essential to spiritual growth. Prayer is what unites us as Episcopalians – we are a people of common prayer.. Incorporating Daily Prayer into your life The Daily Office – The purpose of the Daily Office is two-fold: First, it serves to sanctify time, or perhaps more accurately, to remind us in the time it takes for our offering of the office that all time is sacred, since all time belongs to God. Herein is embodied the same principle that lies behind the stewardship of our material resources: All that we have belongs to God, and we render a portion of it to him in sacrificial remembrance of that fact. The consequence of the faithful rendering of this service is the fulfillment of the second purpose of the Daily Office, which is the sanctification, both of those who pray it, and of the Church for which they pray. Creative Ways to Pray Formation Journey– EDWM's website for formation has comprehensive ideas and reasources for creative ways to pray. Prayers Handout (4-up) Prayers In the Morning – From the Book of Common Prayer

		Recommended Program Curriculum: The 5 Marks of Love from the Society of St. John the Evangelist (SSJE) This six-week series provides the opportunity to observe and to reflect on the ways in which the Divine Life expresses itself in and through us; individually and in our faith communities, as well as in the world around us. Each week will explore the Anglican Marks of Mission (Tell, Teach, Tend, Transform and Treasure) through videos, questions and exercises so we can speak more clearly and act truthfully, motivated always by hearts marked by God’s love. This series is designed for use by individuals or small groups. In small groups, facilitators will guide the growing process as participants discuss and learn together. For individuals, daily videos and reflections will lead them through a similar process. Ultimately participants will learn to offer themselves, body and soul, to God’s Mission, and to live for God’s glory. Materials and videos are free online and as downloads. Click here to sign up. Read Along With the Bishop In her book Fierce Conversations: Achieving Success at Work and in Life One Conversation at a Time, Susan Scott explains that in order to succeed, one must transform everyday conversations employing effective ways to get the message across. In doing so, we can Overcome barriers to meaningful communication Expand and enrich conversations with colleagues, friends, and family Increase clarity and improve understanding Handle strong emotions-on both sides of the table In our changing culture, the survival of our churches depends upon healthy dialog and communication. Our hope is that this book will be a tool in helping us grow into a people better able to communicate about and listen to difficult topics. Learn more. For ideas for lent and Easter activities for children and families, click here.

		Spiritual Gifts Assessment The Evangelical Lutheran Church of America (ELCA) has developed the following Spiritual Gifts Assessment tool, and has agreed to let us link to it. The Spiritual Gifts Assessment tool is a quick survey you can take to identify your spiritual gifts. After you have completed the survey, you will receive a document highlighting your spiritual gifts. Online Version Printable Version

		Retreat Centers in Western Michigan Episcopal The All Saints, Saugatuck Retreat House (no programming, for group retreats) Emmaus Monastery, 2998 N Pine Grove Rd, Vestaburg, MI (989) 268-5494 St. Gregory's Abbey, Three Rivers, MI Ecumenical The Augustine Center at the Sacramentine Monastery, Conway, MI Franciscan Life Process Center, Grand Rapids, MI The Hermitage St. Francis Retreat & Conference Center, DeWitt, MI Tranformations Spirituality Center, Kalamazoo, MI

		EfM – Education for Ministry Want to learn more about Education for Ministry (EfM), the 36-session program designed for lay persons by The University of the South’s School of Theology? Participants study the Hebrew Scriptures, the New Testament, Christian History, and Modern Theology and Ethics, and learn how to think theologically by practicing theological reflection within their small group. If you have questions, please e-mail Marissa Lee, EfM Diocesan Coordinator by clicking here now.