Why do you walk labyrinths?, my friend asked, as we completed the many circuits of an outdoor labyrinth. I have many answers: because I like to walk them; because they leave me with a feeling of peace; because they impose a slower, more meditative rhythm in my day.

The 2016 Presidential election has brought a renewed interest in Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s life and writing. Perhaps this shouldn’t be a surprise. Most election years bring (more than) a few thought-pieces and editorials drawing connections between current candidates and Bonhoeffer’s well-known context and work.

The Bible is filled with poetry. But how do we read through the metaphors and similes of Scripture? How does that change our interpretation of holy texts? How might seeing Scripture in a specific genre nourish our spirituality in new ways?

By sharing our sorrows, our pain, our joys, our hopes, we allow our true selves to be seen by others and we become open in way that enables others to be the face and presence of God right here with us.

On October 23, Immanuel will welcome scholar and renowned organist, Dr. Eileen Guenther, as she discusses her book, In Their Own Words: Slave Life and the Power of Spirituals. This groundbreaking study of slavery and spirituals is the first to place the unique voices of an enslaved people squarely within the context of their daily lives.

“Be Thou My Vision” is my favorite hymn. In hymns as with people, “favorites” are generously rich inspiring and thoughtful words. As with people, there are also parts of which we are not so fond.

Sarah Sherman joined Immanuel as Music Assistant for Children and Youth in October 2016. Sarah graduated with a degree in Music from the University of Virginia, and is thrilled to be working with the young people at Immanuel!

As the holidays approach and the stressful election season ends, we realize that not everyone would benefit from contemplative dialogue. So, here are the top 5 reasons that this class isn’t for you…

Many of us will try to restart our physical and financial goals in 2017, but the new year is also a great time to revitalize our spiritual lives. Here are a few spiritual resolutions to inspire your goal setting.

The Red Boot Coalition has a radical idea: when things get heated and tempers flair, stop and listen. Countering national anxiety through small-group conversations may seem naive, but it’s catching on.