Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to discern, know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

RESTORATION MINISTRIES NEWSLETTER

Do you feel that you are on a spiritual journey? Often I hear people describe their journey toward God as if God is far away and must be tracked down or discovered.
I remember my own decision to “go find God again” (Yes, I actually said that), believing I had left this caring fatherly figure behind and it was up to me to go back and retrieve him.

But scripture paints a very different picture of the Creator’s presence and availability in the world. In Genesis the intimacy of God with individuals is very personal and present. The Lord God: blew breath into the nostrils of adam at creation, is pictured walking in the garden and calling out for His beloved created ones, and visits in a very real way with Abraham and Sarah, dining and later discussing together the future of Sodom and Gomorrah! Clearly, the Creator God is very close and intimately involved in life. Our job is to pay attention so we don’t miss it. Like Moses.

Moses was sitting watching the flocks in a distant region one day, alone and quiet, when he noticed a bush burning. Or at least that’s what it looked like. But the flames continued to dance and still the bush was not consumed. His attention captured, he went to have a closer look. As he advanced, he heard his name called and responded, “Here I am.” His curiosity heightened. “Take off your sandals” he was told. Why take off his sandals? Because in time and culture one removed their sandals....when they arrived home.

Moses was home! He was, like Adam and Eve in the garden, aware and alive to God’s immanent presence. He did not have to journey to find God. God was there all the time! Moses simply became aware and responsive as God made his presence known in that moment. “There is no journey,” someone said to me recently. God is. Always present.

Restoration is offering a devotional travel tour of Israel this fall for those who feel the Lord is inviting them to “Come.” Perhaps it could be a way of “taking off our sandals” together in the places where Emmanuel (God with us) lived his earthly years among us.
But wherever you are in your day, in your life, the invitation is to “take off your sandals” and live at home with the Lord God who loves you.

Pastor Marjorie Karjalahti

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

Spiritual Direction Ministry Available

Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions. The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.415

THE TWELVE STEPS: A CONTINUING JOURNEY Thursday evenings, 6-7:30 PM For those who have completed the first five steps of the 12 Step Spiritual journey, this group will continue on through the program. For questions or information on upcoming classes please contact Brenda at brenda@restorationmn.org

Into the Holy Land Would you like to join a group from Restoration Ministries on a journey through Israel this fall? We have planned a lovely devotional tour led by Marji Karjalahti that will bring us to unique places as well as traditional sites visited by Christ’s disciples over the years as they followed their heart’s desire to draw closer to Him. Our days will include unhurried devotional and personal reflection times in significant locations, such as the Gethsemane Garden, the Judean wilderness, an extended private boat ride on Galilee, and the site where Jesus asked of his disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Our small private tour bus will take us from Dan to Beer Sheva, the land of promise to Abraham and Sarah and their descendants.

Several have already signed up as they’ve recognized the invitation from Jesus to “Come.” Perhaps you’ve heard this invitation also and would like to join us. Space is limited, so listen and respond quickly. We would love to have you with us.

Shalom

Come and Sit With Me Awhile… Do you long to find rest for your soul? Are you willing to consider this a God-invitation? How does a day away from the busyness of your life and schedule sound to you? A personal spiritual get-away can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for: Solitude, Scripture, Meditation, Study,  Silence,  Reflection,  Worship, Prayer,  Journaling, Sabbath,  Rest

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need."

There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses.  Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space.

Evenings of Listening Prayer
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is neither registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.415

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to discern, know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

RESTORATION MINISTRIES NEWSLETTER

   As I sat to write in my journal these words formed on the page: I am like a bird this morning--a bird that has hit the glass window, seeing the reflection of open space--and yet hitting the wall of glass. I lie on the ground, my heart momentarily stunned, waiting. Waiting for the rhythm to begin again, for my breath to come back, to again feel my lungs fill with air and life, and for movement to return to my limbs, lifting me into a resumed flight.
   As the image came, I began to move my nose, wrinkling it around and around--it was as though even my body part was coming back into feeling from the stunned place of hitting the glass wall, head on apparently.

This body memory brought to mind a real memory from childhood. My brother, two years older than me, taught me how to ride my bicycle. His words of instruction were, "just peddle and keep peddling. Don't stop peddling. You'll get it."

He was right, and such fun. I peddled and peddled, navigating wide turns, still unsure and unpracticed in all the balance required for riding my bicycle. All of a sudden, and I could see it coming, but not having instruction on how to stop, and peddling hard, I smacked right into the side of our brick barn, crashing into it and then toppling over. I am wrinkling my nose up and down as I remember.
   Learning how to stop, how to apply brakes, how to balance while moving slowly, how to put my leg out to keep myself from falling, all became vital lessons in learning how to ride my bicycle.
   These have been my life lessons as well; lessons that I have needed to learn to keep me from hitting the wall of burnout and exhaustion, from "peddling" too hard, too fast, and without balance and rhythm. These life lessons help me live with freedom, more joy, less fear. My hands are not tightly gripped around the handle bars anymore. But every once in a while, when I listen to what my body has to tell me, I receive a reminder.
   For your prayer: consider taking some quiet moments to reflect on what you notice in your body. What is your body telling you? What is God revealing through what is going on in your body? Pay attention. Be aware of your breath and its intentional rhythm. Become aware of tension in your body and where it is. What does it tell you? What might you say to God about the tension? Release it; let it go.
   We hold within our bodies, these physical "tents," the very Spirit of God. And our body is another way God reveals himself to us and meets us there with love and compassion.

Pastor Jean Leih

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES 

Spiritual Direction Ministry Available

Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions. The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.415

WHEN: Thursday evening, May 3-June 28, 6-7:30pm
LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Center
REGISTER: To register online, click here
COST: There is no cost for this class. Contributions will be accepted.

Come and Sit With Me Awhile…

Do you long to find rest for your soul? Are you willing to consider this a God-invitation? How does a day away from the busyness of your life and schedule sound to you? A personal spiritual get-away can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for:

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need."

Solitude     Scripture     Meditation Study       Silence      Reflection Worship    Prayer       Journaling Sabbath     Rest There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses. Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space.

Evenings of Listening Prayer
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is neither registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.415

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

You are invited to join with us on A Lenten Journey as we gather on Thursday evenings beginning February 23. Come from 6:30 – 7:30 pm to the Restoration Ministry Center to sit without words in the Presence of Christ (represented by the bread and cup). We will gather intentionally to deepen our awareness of the reality of God’s Presence who is with us wherever we are and wherever we go. Each evening will include music, quiet, The Lord’s Prayer and our visible expression of communion through the opportunity of receiving the bread and cup.

Into the Holy Land

Would you like to join a group from Restoration Ministries on a journey through Israel this fall? We have planned a lovely devotional tour led by Marji Karjalahti that will bring us to unique places as well as traditional sites visited by Christ’s disciples over the years as they followed their heart’s desire to draw closer to Him.

Our days will include unhurried devotional and personal reflection times in significant locations, such as the Gethsemane Garden, the Judean wilderness, an extended private boat ride on Galilee, and the site where Jesus asked of his disciples, “Who do you say I am?” Our small private tour bus will take us from Dan to Beer Sheva, the land of promise to Abraham and Sarah and their descendants.

There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses.

Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space.

You are invited to join with us on A Lenten Journey as we gather on Thursday evenings beginning February 23. Come from 6:30 – 7:30 pm to the Restoration Ministry Center to sit without words in the Presence of Christ (represented by the bread and cup). We will gather intentionally to deepen our awareness of the reality of God’s Presence who is with us wherever we are and wherever we go. Each evening will include music, quiet, The Lord’s Prayer and our visible expression of communion through the opportunity of receiving the bread and cup.

"The Lord is my Shepherd,
I have everything I need." 

Solitude     Scripture     Meditation
Study        Silence     Reflection Worship    Prayer     Journaling
Sabbath     Rest

There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses.

Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

RESTORATION MINISTRIES NEWSLETTER

Be still in the presence of the Lord, and wait patiently for him to act (Psalm 37:7a).

Recently my attention was drawn to these words that stood up and caught my eye. I was in a store “looking” for what I did not find – but these words were imprinted on a plaque and they found me. The words have stayed with me.

I often carry a tension within me—am I being proactive enough in carrying out the vision for the ministry of Restoration and in discerning and moving forward in ministry development. There is much we could be expanding – I would like to see the 12-Step Spiritual Journey movement take on new life and energy; I would like to see increase in the collaborative ministry with Stepping Stones ministry for women being released from incarceration; I would like more and more people to experience the life-transforming possibilities of spiritual direction. I would like to have a greater financial base from which to expand and develop ministry and let others know of our ministry. I would like to see increased capacity to provide the healing and restoring ministry that we have been called into. But continually I am reminded to be still and wait patiently for the Lord to act. I do not have to fret about how to figure it all out.

In the past year, what I have witnessed as God acting, is a growth in awareness of Restoration Ministries and increased ministry opportunities and possibilities. People find us and come seeking--seeking to have a place to ask their questions about God; to voice their confusion or hurt; seeking healing in their God-images; seeking intimacy and attentiveness in their relationship with God and others. Many come in places of pain and sadness, losses and grief, so desiring to receive ministry for their souls through prayer and the ministry of Jesus. Almost to a person, the words I hear over and over again are, “I feel such peace here.” And there it is, God-in-action.

Waiting patiently is a prayerful way of being, one that requires a daily “letting go” to the work of the Spirit of God within, trusting in God alone, for what God will do. Waiting patiently is being willing to commit everything to the Lord, trusting in God as our help (Ps. 37:5). Waiting patiently is waiting with alertness, attentiveness, for the divine invitation – willing and readied to respond. Being still in God’s presence is a place of deep rest and peace that is pure gift.

May you know the gift of God’s peace and rest in this season of celebrating God-in-action. Wait patiently, dear friends.

Pastor Jean Leih

Restoration Ministries is a contribution ministry. We do not have fees for the ministry we offer. Many come to us without the ability to contribute. If you would like to partner with us in this particular ministry of restoration and healing, we welcome your prayer and financial support. Financial gifts can be made to us at Restoration Ministries, 7975 Stone Creek Drive, #130, Chanhassen, MN 55317, or by using the Donate button on the front page of our website at www.restorationmn.org.

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

Come and Sit With Me Awhile…

Do you long to find rest for your soul? Are you willing to consider this a God-invitation? How does a day away from the busyness of your life and schedule sound to you? A personal spiritual get-away can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for:

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need."

Solitude     Scripture     Meditation Study        Silence     Reflection Worship    Prayer     Journaling Sabbath     Rest There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses. Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions. The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is neither registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.415

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

RESTORATION MINISTRIES NEWSLETTER

My soul was disturbed, deeply disturbed.

It took me a bit to name the anger that manifested as being “disturbed in my soul.” I had attended an educational forum on human trafficking and my awareness soared to a new level. It was disturbing to know that trafficking is a billion-dollar industry that sells women and children, boys and girls, into slavery, sex slavery as well as forced labor. It was disturbing to know that this kind of slavery not only exists, it is widespread, and is in our own backyard. I had been aware, but now I was awakened to a new reality.

At my worst, I would like to go back to sleep, to discount, or minimize this human-perpetrated evil that is supported by buying and selling human beings for profit and for the sex act that gratifies at a base, animalistic level—predator and prey. There must be a seller as well as a buyer for this to happen. Both sides of this particular economic equation are a devastating evil and I would like to not know what I now do know.

At my best, I am in prayer and compassionate action working out of God’s very intention for our world, for the ways and person of Christ to be known. Christ who was for the outcast, the beggars, the lepers, the prostitutes, the demonized, the victimized. Christ saw, spoke, touched, healed, set free, delivered victims and perpetrators alike. Bearing the Spirit of Christ, I cannot look the other way.

I have been pondering the words from Romans 13 (The Message) as I have thought of my own awakening:

But make sure that you don't get so absorbed and exhausted in taking care of all your day-by-day obligations that you lose track of the time and doze off, oblivious to God. The night is about over, dawn is about to break. Be up and awake to what God is doing! God is putting the finishing touches on the salvation work he began when we first believed. We can't afford to waste a minute, must not squander these precious daylight hours in frivolity and indulgence, in sleeping around and dissipation, in bickering and grabbing everything in sight. Get out of bed and get dressed! Don't loiter and linger, waiting until the very last minute. Dress yourselves in Christ, and be up and about!

For me to be up and about, I had to do one thing, just one thing, to have some sense of being a part of abolishing human slavery and trafficking. I went online to the Not For Sale website at www.notforsalecampaign.org and purchased a freedom journal, made in India. Then I re-centered myself in prayer, bringing my attention to the God who creates, loves, guides, heals and restores. This poem by Wendell Berry brought me to another place of stillness.

The Peace of Wild Things
When despair for the world grows in me
And I wake in the night at the least sound
In fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,
I go and lie down where the wood drake
rests in his beauty on the water; and the great heron feeds.
I come into the peace of wild things
Who do not tax their lives with forethought
Or grief. I come into the presence of still water.
And I feel above me the day-blind stars
Waiting with their light. For a time
I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

Writing this article is the next right thing.

Pastor Jean Leih

UPCOMING RETREAT OPPORTUNITY

Advent Stillness Creating a space To enter the season with silence Being still to know The I AM

WHEN: Saturday, December 3 8:30AM-3:30PM
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church
322 2nd St. Excelsior
COST: $35.00 (Includes lunch)
REGISTRATION: To register go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES

Come and Sit With Me Awhile…

Do you long to find rest for your soul? Are you willing to consider this a God-invitation? How does a day away from the busyness of your life and schedule sound to you? A personal spiritual get-away can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for:

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need."

Solitude     Scripture     Meditation Study        Silence     Reflection Worship    Prayer     Journaling Sabbath     Rest There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses. Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions. The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is neither registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.415

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

OCTOBER 2011

Not long ago a friend reminded me of the Scripture text (Luke 13:22-28 ) in which Jesus makes the statement, "I don't know you or where you came from." The question that was posed with these words was, "How have I allowed myself to be known by God?"

I think some have ready answers for the question, "How can I know God?" but usually the answer is introductory and often a pat response that has been learned in one's head and as a point of belief, but the personal knowing remains distant. We catch a glimpse through Jesus' words, "If you know me, you know my Father." This reflects a personal knowing beyond information and facts, a knowing that comes from being with, experiencing another and allowing oneself to be known by the other.

Curt Thompson, M.D., has written a book entitled, Anatomy of the Soul: Surprising connections between neuroscience and spiritual practices that can transform your life and relationships. Thompson states: "Despite the interest in spirituality in much of the West, and North America in particular, our overall experience of God's power and life-giving vitality is often limited--especially when it comes to growth and reconciliation in our relationships. We often see life in Jesus as being more about survival in this life until we "die and go to heaven" than about grace, adventure, and genuine, concrete, life-giving change. This is partly due to the way we encounter the process of knowing and being known. We tend to place a great deal of emphasis on the ways and the degree to which we know God (or know things about God) rather than to the degree we are being known by God."

So the question comes again, "How have I allowed myself to be known by God?" and again, "How have you allowed yourself to be known by God?" 

You might consider the following opportunities for increasing your capacity for knowing and being known. 

UPCOMING RETREAT OPPORTUNITIES

Advent Stillness Creating a space To enter the season with silence Being still to know The I AM WHEN: Saturday, December 3 8:30AM-3:30PM WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church 322 2nd St. Excelsior COST: $35.00 (Includes lunch) REGISTRATION: Please register online at: www.restorationnmn.org/opportunities

Care of the Serving Soul Leader & Ministry Staff Day - Listening for God in Change Changes... transitions... the death of the old to make way for God's new thing. This day is especially for leaders and full ministry teams trying to hear God in the changes and transitions of ministry and personal life. It's also for those looking for God in the pains and losses associated with moving from old to new things. Could you and your ministry staff benefit from a day spent deeply listening to what God is up to with you right now?

Our November 2011 gathering reflects on the pattern of Jesus' death, resurrection, ascension, and the coming of the Holy Spirit as the leader's model for embracing the daily deaths, changes and transitions of life and ministry. These always hold the seeds of more abundant life. We'll listen together to Jesus' invitation to find him in the seeds of change, and to grow with him toward new power and meaning in our lives, calling, and ministries.

WHO: Ministry Leaders & Staffs
WHAT: Day of renewal & conversation
WHERE: Vision of Glory Church  13200 Highway 55  Plymouth, MN 55441
WHEN: Monday, November 7, 2011   8:30am - 3:30pm
COST: $55.00, includes lunch
REGISTER: Click this link, go to Leaders Day event near top of page

Come and Sit With Me Awhile…

Do you long to find rest for your soul? Are you willing to consider this a God-invitation? How does a day away from the busyness of your life and schedule sound to you? A personal spiritual get-away can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for:

Solitude   Scripture   Meditation   Study Silence   Reflection   Worship Prayer   Journaling   Sabbath   Rest There are no fees for these retreats. We do accept contributions to defray ministry expenses. Please call 952.241.4150 for more information and/or to reserve space

"The Lord is my Shepherd, I have everything I need."

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:
Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/ 

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

SEPTEMBER 2011

I don't know about you, but I feel like I need a vacation now that summer is over. Our lives are full; we enjoyed time reconnecting with family and friends, had time away with our children and grandchildren, traveled--and yet I am longing for and needing rest, silence and solitude. Rest, silence and solitude are very different from "vacation." My soul feels dry and empty, even though  my head might tell me it "should" be different than what I feel. Living with the question, "What do you want?" brings me to my longing and the God invitation.

I need to be intentional about carving out time for sabbath rest and solitude. I know that this is the only kind of space and time that cuts through my dryness and drivenness, and allows me to return home to the heart of God. 

Perhaps you are longing for this kind of rest as well. Living with the question, "What do you want?" may also  invite you to the place where your longing and God's longing in you meets.

Pastor Jean Leih

PERSONAL SPIRITUAL RETREATS
A personal spiritual retreat can provide a time set apart to be with God. A day or half day at our ministry center may include time and space for:

• Solitude
• Silence
• Prayer
• Scripture Meditation
• Reflection
• Journaling
• Study
• Worship
• Sabbath Rest
• Discernment

Guided retreats are available upon request. Contact us at 952.241.4150 to reserve space for your personal retreat.  Space available on Mondays, Fridays and periodic Saturdays.  Contributions accepted.

THE TWELVE STEPS: A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY As Christians we believe that God reveals much of his plan for each of us in the Holy Scriptures. Both mature Christians and those who are just being awakened to a personal relationship with God can find tremendous value in the Twelve Steps.

By regularly applying them to the events of one’s life, the steps become a means for enriching one’s relationship with God. The steps are especially powerful when used together with the regular Christian practices of prayer, meditation and bible study.
The Twelve Steps—A Spiritual Journey contains scriptural passages that illustrate the harmony between the practice of Christianity and the working of the Twelve Steps. The use of Scripture provides an understanding of the Twelve Steps within a biblical context. The steps are a profoundly powerful process for allowing God to heal damaged emotions.

For questions or information on upcoming 12-Step classes, please contact Brenda at brenda@restorationmn.org

WHEN: Steps 1-5: Monday evenings, Sept 19-Dec 5, 7-8:30 PM
Steps 6-12: Thursday evenings, Sept 15-Dec 15, 7:00-8:30 PM
LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Center
REGISTER: To register online go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities
COST: There is no cost for this class. Contributions will be accepted.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.
Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.
Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

LOOKING AHEAD:Restoration Ministries will offer an Advent Retreat on Saturday, December 3, 2011, facilitated by Dr. Glenn Myers.  Plan now to enter the Advent season with intention. 

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:
Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

JULY 2011

In a clear plastic frame that is self-standing on my home-office desk is a picture. I picked this picture from a number of others cut out from magazines and lying on a table waiting for me to view and from which to choose. This picture captured my attention and drew me in. The image touched something deep in my soul that is even yet not fully understood by me. I take it into my prayer, wondering, “What is it God that you want me to see, name or hope for through this simple picture?” I keep it there in front of me—not to be forgotten. There is something of my childhood in the picture that is being brought into awareness now. I notice my feelings and what this picture might represent for today. I am thinking it is another movement in my spiritual development that is emerging—greater freedom and oneness with God—being carried and yet having an intensity of focus and an exhilaration towards finishing the race. Press on, it tells me.

There is great value that comes from noticing in this way through the beauty of images, poetry, music, art or story. A response is evoked that goes beyond the surface. I hold this picture in my heart and mind, not yet willing to share it all out loud as of yet. It seems a sacred holding and waiting time. My journal carries the thoughts that have been stirred, my prayer continues about what God might be inviting because of what I do see, what it represents.

A simple picture can evoke these kinds of responses, as does the beauty of nature, a sunset, a song, a Scripture. You might consider this exercise for yourself. Slow down a bit,  be still for a moment, look around. What do you see?  What do you hear?

Invite God to help you see and hear what God is revealing. Stop and notice what is, and what God might be inviting, in the present moment. Breathe.

We see the externals. Now again, stop; notice your inner response to what you see. By cultivating this kind of attentiveness to your inner life, you can move from being reactive to becoming more self aware and responsive. This kind of inner-awareness building fosters growth into oneness with Christ, the Spirit of God who lives within you. Our world could look different if we lived and responded with greater awareness and attentiveness to the Spirit of God, moment by moment. I believe it would hold less violence, more grace, love and compassion.

Press on,

Pastor Jean Leih

UPCOMING RETREAT OPPORTUNITY 

The Trinity Experience
Facilitated by Paul Causton, M.Div.

Let the walls between you and God begin to crumble and allow yourself to be transformed into the true child of God that you are.  Come and experience the truth about who God is and how God feels about you.

Paul is one of the spiritual directors ministering through Restoration Ministries. He is also a pastor, teacher, husband and dad. Paul received his M.Div. from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and his spiritual direction training through Larry Crabb's School of Spiritual Direction.

WHERE: Living Christ Lutheran Church 820 Lake Dr Chanhassen, MN
WHEN: Friday, August 5 6:30-9:30 PM
Saturday, August 6 8:30-3:30 PM
COST: $35.00 (Lunch included)
REGISTER: To register online click here or go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities

WELCOME, WELCOME

We are pleased to welcome two new spiritual directors to Restoration Ministries.  Debi Forsyth and Gene Rivard are recent graduates of the spiritual direction training program, Tending the Holy, offered through Christos Center for Spiritual Formation. They are  available to offer the ministry of spiritual direction through our ministry center. They can be contacted through our website where you also can see their bio and photos! 

CONDOLENCES

Our prayers and sympathy are with our ministry colleague and friend, Diane Johnson, in the recent loss of her husband, Rev. Robert Johnson, who passed away on June 3.We also join in grieving the loss of Bob's presence.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

JUNE 2011

Every once in a while a prayer by Sir Francis Drake (England/1540-1596) comes to mind and I seem to be called back to be in it again.  I am thinking that reminder may be a nudging from God and just what I most need to hear and pray at the moment. I thought I would share it with you, in case it may become one that you pray with  periodically as well. It is entitled Prayer for Spiritual Revival.

Disturb us, Lord, when
We are too well pleased with ourselves,
When our dreams have come true
Because we have dreamed too little,
When we arrived safely
Because we sailed too close to the shore.

 Disturb us, Lord, when
With the abundance of things we possess
We have lost our thirst
For the waters of life;
Having fallen in love with life,
We have ceased to dream of eternity
And in our efforts to build a new earth,
We have allowed our vision
Of the new Heaven to dim.

 Disturb us, Lord, to dare more boldly,
To venture on wider seas
Where storms will show your mastery;
Where losing sight of land,
We shall find the stars.
We ask You to push back
The horizons of our hopes;
And to push into the future
In strength, courage, hope, and love.

I think I like this prayer so much because it dares me pray to live with more courage when I get overwhelmed, fearful or complacent; it also encourages me to not just stay the course, but to be renewed in my prayer for ways on this earth that reflect more of the Kingdom of God. Will you join me in this adventurous prayer to sail further out from shore; to take more risks in being people and voices of love, truth, justice and compassion in our world?  Our world  needs adventurous people willing to risk more of themselves, who live and lead in such ways.

 Pastor Jean Leih

The Trinity Experience
Facilitated by Paul Causton, M.Div.

Let the walls between you and God begin to crumble and allow yourself to be transformed into the true child of God that you are Come and experience the truth about who God is and how God feels about you.

Paul is one of the spiritual directors ministering through Restoration Ministries.  He is also a pastor, teacher, husband and dad. Paul received his M.Div. from Concordia Seminary in St. Louis and his spiritual direction training through Larry Crabb's School of Spiritual Direction.

WHERE:  Living Christ Lutheran Church  820 Lake Dr  Chanhassen, MN
WHEN:    Friday, August 5  6:30-9:30 PM
                Saturday, August 6  8:30-3:30 PM
COST:      $35.00 (Lunch included)
REGISTER: To register online click here or go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities

BOOK SIGNING & COMMUNITY EVENT

You are invited to a celebratory book-signing event with Dr. Glenn E. Myers.  Dr. Myers' book, Seeking Spiritual Intimacy: Journeying Deeper with Medieval Women of Faith was recently published by InterVarsity Press. Dr. Myers is a founding member of the Board of Directors of Restoration Ministries and has been instrumental in the ministry development as well as integrally involved in facilitating retreats and classes. Books will be available for purchase. Dr. Myers serves on faculty at Crown College, where he provides spiritual direction to many students in addition to teaching spiritual formation, church history and Bible classes. He received his M.Div. from Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, Ph.D. in church history from Boston University and has completed graduate studies in spiritual theology from Regent College.

OPEN HOUSE AND VISIT WITH THE AUTHOR

Friday, June 24, 2011  

6:45-9:00pm with a brief presentation at 7:30

Restoration Ministry Center, 7975 Stone Creek Drive, #130, Chanhassen, MN  55317  952.241.4150.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

 

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

May 2011

Life demands so much of us. From the moment we open our eyes till the moment we go to sleep, we're pulled in multiple directions and besieged with the white noise of a busy, busy world. We find ourselves worried and upset about many things. But only one thing is needed.

These words bring memory of the story of Jesus with Martha and Mary, and Jesus' loving words to Martha redirecting her attentiveness to the "one thing that is needed." These words are also introductory to a new book just published by InterVarsity Press, formatio series, written by Glenn E. Myers, entitled Seeking Spiritual Intimacy: Journeying Deeper with Medieval Women of Faith. Dr. Myers introduces us to the Beguines, a network of faith communities in medieval Europe where women organized their world around the one thing needed--a simple life with Christ at the center. The book is one filled with insights of wise women of faith who, from their modest homes and quiet communities, revitalized the faith of a continent.

Glenn is on the Board of Restoration Ministries and has been instrumental in our ministry development, continuing to bring focus to the one thing that is needed in our very busy lives--a simple life with Christ at the center. In all that has unfolded in this ministry, whether through spiritual direction, 12-Step Spiritual Journey groups, listening prayer experiences, retreats, Scripture studies, or outreach opportunities, this is our desire--to live simply with Christ at the center and to cultivate that desire in others. We are excited to see this book come into print and to see these teachings brought into new life in our time and for this generation.

I leave you with a question (From: Seeking Spiritual Intimacy) for your reflection: Who are the people you are growing with spiritually? If you do not currently have someone with whom you share your inner life, who might you ask? How can you gather with some like-minded friends in your pursuit of God? 

We welcome you to join with us in this pursuit.

THE TWELVE STEPS: A SPIRITUAL JOURNEY Thursday evenings, 7-8:30 PM As Christians we believe that God reveals much of his plan for each of us in the Holy Scriptures. Both mature Christians and those who are just being awakened to a personal relationship with God can find tremendous value in the Twelve Steps. By regularly applying them to the events of one’s life, the steps become a means for enriching one’s relationship with God. The steps are especially powerful when used together with the regular Christian practices of prayer, meditation and bible study.

The Twelve Steps—A Spiritual Journey contains scriptural passages that illustrate the harmony between the practice of Christianity and the working of the Twelve Steps. The use of Scripture provides an understanding of the Twelve Steps within a biblical context. The steps are a profoundly powerful process for allowing God to heal damaged emotions.

For questions or information on upcoming classes please contact Brenda at brenda@restorationmn.org

WHEN: Thursday evening, May 26-August 11, 7-8:30pm
LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Center
REGISTER: To register online go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities
COST: There is no cost for this class. Contributions will be accepted

CONTINUING THE JOURNEY
For those who have completed the first five steps of the 12 Step Spiritual journey, this group will continue on through the program. They will meet on Monday evenings, beginning June 6 from 7:00-8:30pm. This group is open to new participants.

WHEN: Monday evenings, June 6-September 12
WHERE: Restoration Ministry Center
REGISTER: To register online go to www.restorationmn.org/opportunities
COST: There is no cost for this course. Donations will be accepted

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings, 

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/   

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

An Intentional Life: A Lenten Retreat

We live in a world that is manifesting a deep hunger and thirst for God and subsequent God-action; for counter-cultural ways of being and loving.
Traditionally, the season of Lent is one of attentiveness, and is often characterized by prayer, fasting and giving. The life journey of Christ demonstrated a way of being characterized by prayer, inner attentiveness and awareness that led to action that manifested God in the world. Our prayer and attentiveness are intentional spiritual practices that provide discernment, direction and power for loving and compassionate action in our world.

Join with us in this intentional day to reflect together on the words of Jesus in the Beatitudes as we enter this Lenten season.

“What is the gospel that Jesus preached?” Reading Mark from a typed manuscript (without verses and sub headings) allows us to listen from a new perspective to the story Mark was inspired to create with such literary artistry. Join us on this 12-week journey with Jesus as together we listen to the story and find answers to the questions that arise within us. Manuscripts will be available at the first class.

Traditionally, the season of Lent is one of attentiveness, and is often characterized by prayer, fasting and giving. The life journey of Christ demonstrated a way of being characterized by prayer, inner attentiveness and awareness that led to action that manifested God in the world. Our prayer and attentiveness are intentional spiritual practices that provide discernment, direction and power for loving and compassionate action in our world.

Join with us in this intentional day to reflect together on the words of Jesus in the Beatitudes as we enter this Lenten season.

The Gift of Presence: An Advent Retreat
Facilitated by Marjorie Karjalahti, MDiv

The retreat will include a quiet journey of scripture reading, individual reflection, stories shared, and prayer, concluding with Communion. Thoughts on prayer as attending, prayer as pondering, and prayer as responding will accompany us on our journey through the day. Come. Journey with us, and enjoy the gift of God’s Presence.

WHEN: Saturday, January 8
TIME: 8:30-3:30 PM
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church
COST: $35.00 (lunch included)

REGISTER: Please register online at www.restorationmn.org/opportunities

The Gift of Presence:
An Advent Retreat 
Facilitated by Marjorie Karjalahti, MDiv

The retreat will include a quiet journey of scripture reading, individual reflection, stories shared, and prayer, concluding with Communion. Thoughts on prayer as attending, prayer as pondering, and prayer as responding will accompany us on our journey through the day. Come. Journey with us, and enjoy the gift of God’s Presence.

WHEN: Saturday, January 8
TIME: 8:30-3:30 PM
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church
COST: $35.00 (lunch included)

The Gift of Presence:
An Advent Retreat 
Facilitated by Marjorie Karjalahti, MDiv

The retreat will include a quiet journey of scripture reading, individual reflection, stories shared, and prayer, concluding with Communion. Thoughts on prayer as attending, prayer as pondering, and prayer as responding will accompany us on our journey through the day. Come. Journey with us, and enjoy the gift of God’s Presence.

WHEN: Saturday, December 11
TIME: 8:30-3:30 PM
WHERE: Trinity Episcopal Church
COST: $35.00 (lunch included)

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ.  Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence.  We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

OCTOBER 2010

I am sure we will hear much in the coming days about the amazing rescue of the Chilean miners, and yet to come will be 33 stories of the experience of being entombed underground for 69 days. One of the miners already spoke out that "There were really 34 of us. God never left."

"I think I had extraordinary luck. I was with God and with the devil. And I reached out for God." This was a statement from one of the miners as he awaited the air force helicopter ride to the nearby hospital.

Reaching out for God in times of darkness and desperation...that is a story that we may hear from more than a few of these men. It is also something for all of us to consider. While our circumstances may not be as newsworthy or dramatic as this mine accident and rescue operation, each of us have experienced times of darkness and desperation.

It is often in these very times that we are more willing, desperate even, to reach out, to cry out for God, because we find that our own efforts won't dig us out, control is not in our hands. We need God and others to come alongside to meet us there and come alongside to bring us into places of light and healing. Our "mine accidents" are perhaps not as visible and apparent, but our sense of darkness and isolation can be debilitating and entombing.

God is present. Whether or not you are in a place of darkness or desperation, you can reach out for God. God is there.

If you are walking in darkness, without a ray of light, trust in the Lord and rely on your God. (Isaiah 50:10 NLT)

Pastor Jean Leih

Upcoming Retreat Opportunity

The Gift of Presence: An Advent Retreat
Facilitated by Marjorie Karjalahti, MDiv

WHEN: Saturday, December 11
TIME: 8:30-3:30 PM
WHERE: Restoration Ministries
COST: $35.00 (lunch included)
REGISTER: Please register online at www.restorationmn.org/opportunities

GENESIS STUDY: A New Beginning
Shaped by the Word

This is an announcement for prior participants in the manuscript study of Genesis. Meeting on Tuesday nights, 7-9pm, at the offices of Restoration Ministries.  Facilitated by Marji Karjalahti, MDiv.

If you are interested in this class and have not been a prior participant, please let us know and we will consider offering a new class. Contact us at 952.241.4150 or email: info@restorationmn.org.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE

Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings.

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

September 2010

Stephanie Williams is on the pastoral staff at Mill City Church in Northeast Minneapolis where she lives in community with young women currently training for pastoral ministry.  Stephanie agreed to share with you her experience of spiritual direction and why she feels it is essential to her life in ministry.

There are a lot of things I have yet to learn as a young minister, but there is one thing I do know for sure when it comes to a life of leadership: If you are spiritually mentoring others, you must have a spiritual mentor yourself.

When I was in college and seminary, there were structures set up to provide such mentorship, but as I stepped into ministry, I realized quickly that I would need to make sure I was seeking out the spiritual support necessary to minister effectively and grow personally with the Lord. That is when I sought out spiritual direction through Restoration Ministries.

As I lead my congregation as well as the house of young women that I disciple, I have found that my regular meetings with my director are a vital part of my spiritual life. It is in those times that we work to discover the spiritual rhythms I need to minister well and with the passion for my relationship with Christ at the core of all I do.

I have realized that there are many things I can say to those that I disciple, but my actions are going to speak much louder than words. When the women who I live life with see the priority given to direction work in my life it speaks volumes to the priorities they are setting up in their own lives.

I believe that God can work through all things to bring healing to his people. I want to be a vessel to bringing that restoration to the world, and as I restore areas of my life with the help of a spiritual director, I know I am increasing my effectiveness to do just that.

Stephanie writes of her experience of spiritual direction. It is an invitation for you as well. Consider in your prayer whether God might be inviting this kind of "soul friend" relationship into your life as well.  Call 952-241-4150 for additional information.

Pastor Jean Leih

DEEP ROOTEDNESS RETREAT DAY: REGISTER NOW

We invite you to come and share in the day with us as we allow our roots to sink down deep into the soil of God’s love. The day will include time for scripture meditation, quiet reflection, creative expression, prayer and sharing in story and a meal together. Together we will notice God’s invitation to grow more deeply in Him.

Kim Isaak is currently completing her Master’s degree in Spiritual Formation and Leadership through Spring Arbor University and she is trained in the ministry of Spiritual Direction. Also a wife, mother, friend, educator, and businesswoman, Kim seeks to attend to God’s presence in the ordinary and everyday, abiding in Christ’s love for her.

WHEN: Saturday, September 25 8:30-3:30
COST: $35.00
LOCATION: To be announced
REGISTER: To register online, click here.

GENESIS STUDY: A New Beginning
Shaped by the Word

This is an announcement for prior participants in the manuscript study of Genesis. Meeting on Tuesday nights, 7-9pm, at the offices of Restoration Ministries, sessions will resume on September 14. Facilitated by Marji Karjalahti, MDiv.

If you are interested in this class and have not been a prior participant, please let us know and we will consider offering a new class. Contact us at 952.241.4150 or email: info@restorationmn.org.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE

Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings.

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

August 2010

A team from Restoration Ministries traveled to Chicago a few weeks ago, invited to present a workshop at the national SNAP conference. SNAP is the Survivor’s Network of those Abused by Priests and Clergy. Our specific workshop was entitled, “Hope for Healing.” The vastness of the numbers of those affected by this kind of abuse was overwhelming. The tragedy of any kind of abuse is heartbreaking and fractures the lives of those affected, but the spiritual injuries that result from abuse by those in roles of spiritual authority and representatives of God add a dimension and deeper layers of despair. Many have walked away from God completely and I find that very understandable as well as grievous.

I am still sifting and sorting through my own inner responses and continually needing to resist categorizing and defining others in boxes of good or bad, evil or not evil, dark or light. I think when I do that the focus is on externals and minimizes the necessary inner work that all are called to do, especially those in ministry and church leadership. Camps are set up, sides are drawn, hostilities and divisions escalate; fear pervades, truth is buried in denial and cover-ups happen.

An interview with Parker Palmer published in Leader to Leader Journal (Fall 2001) included the following in the dialogue:

“As the great jazz saxophonist Charlie Parker said, ‘If it ain’t in your heart, it ain’t in your horn.’ We can hear the horns everywhere, but if they’re not being played from the heart, then certain negative consequences follow.

I know from experience inside corporations and large-scale organizations that everybody is sizing up the leader and asking, ‘Is this a divided person or a person of integrity? Is what we see what we get? Is he or she the same on the inside as on the outside?” 

Students ask this about teachers in the classroom. Employees ask it about their bosses. Citizens ask it about their politicians. When the answer is, ‘No, what we see on the outside is not the same as who they are on the inside,’ then things start to fall apart.  I have just described an unsafe situation when leaders with the power to call the tune and shape the dance are perceived as lacking congruence or integrity, they create unsafe situations.”

Trust is a tenuous thing. We know betrayal of trust when those we thought we could trust betray that trust, whether parents, spouses, co-workers, supervisors, corporate heads, pastors and priests. The road to forgiveness and healing can be long; it requires courage and truth; grace, mercy and humility.

Again, quoting Parker Palmer: “The best leaders work from a place of integrity in themselves, from their hearts. If they don’t they can’t inspire trustful relationships. In the absence of trust, organizations fall apart.” I don’t think this just happens, this inner work requires intention and attention – it is a way of being, cultivated by openness, willingness and honesty. I believe that resources within the therapeutic community and those in spiritual formation and direction ministries foster these intentions. I believe that all ministry leaders, pastors and priests need relationships in which they can be honest and open in order to grow in integrity and congruency in their own hearts and leadership. The need for organizations such as SNAP is clear. Intervention and prevention is critical.

Pastor Jean Leih 

OPPORTUNITIES AT RESTORATION MINISTRIES

DEEP ROOTEDNESS RETREAT DAY

We invite you to come and share in the day with us as we allow our roots to sink down deep into the soil of God’s love. The day will include time for scripture meditation, quiet reflection, creative expression, prayer and sharing in story and a meal together. Together we will notice God’s invitation to grow more deeply in Him.

Kim Isaak is currently completing her Master’s degree in Spiritual Formation and Leadership through Spring Arbor University and she is trained in the ministry of Spiritual Direction. Also a wife, mother, friend, educator, and businesswoman, Kim seeks to attend to God’s presence in the ordinary and everyday, abiding in Christ’s love for her.

WHEN: Saturday, September 25 8:30-3:30
COST:  $35.00
LOCATION:  To be announced
REGISTER:  To register online, click here. 

GENESIS STUDY: A New Beginning

Shaped by the Word

This is an announcement for prior participants in the manuscript study of Genesis. Meeting on Tuesday nights, 7-9pm, at the offices of Restoration Ministries, sessions will resume on September 14. Facilitated by Marji Karjalahti, MDiv.

If you are interested in this class and have not been a prior participant, please let us know and we will consider offering a new class.  Contact us at 952.241.4150 or email: info@restorationmn.org.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:

Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian Spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/

Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook.  Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings.

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

July 2010

Marji Karjalahti is our contributing writer for this month's  newsletter.  Marji is a member of the Board of Directors of Restoration Ministries.  She earned a Master's of Divinity degree from Bethel Seminary, has served in pastoral ministry, and currently leads and teaches through Restoration Ministries. 

I came into the Restoration office feeling frazzled and fragmented. I wondered of what use I could be in such a state. Jean smiled her greeting and invited me to grab a cup of coffee and come sit with her awhile. We chatted about nothing profound or "spiritual"--just about life in general--our families, the weekend, books we were reading. Unhurried, nothing seemed pressing; we just spent time together talking and listening to each other. Soon another stopped by and joined us, and we were three. It was a lovely, soft, gentling-of-the-soul time.

Listening is such a gift!  It's the gift of authentic presence, to listen and to be listened to. The Hebrew word used in Scripture for "listen/hear" carries with it the sense of both hearing and responding. The act of listening requires a response from us, which makes it an action of relationship. How we respond (to what we hear) is of our choosing.

In psychotherapy, the therapist is a skilled listener whose responses and guidance offer times for healing of emotional wounds. In spiritual direction, the director (also a skilled listener) is there to listen with the directee in discerning God's voice and hand in her/his life. A friend or spouse listens with a sympathetic ear (or not, at times) that allows the other person to voice what is on their mind/heart.

The greater part of listening well requires us to be paying attention and to be emotionally present, respectful and patient to not give advice. Sometimes that is more difficult than others, like when I came feeling so frazzled.

During the Wednesday evening Listening Prayer times at Restoration Ministries, we quiet ourselves together with a few minutes of silence and music to prepare our hearts to listen to the Scripture reading of that evening. Recently, the reading was from Mark's gospel, the story of the woman who tried to secretly touch Jesus so she might be healed of the bleeding that had plagued her for 12 long years. And it happened! She felt it immediately in her body. But to her great surprise, that wasn't the end of it. Not only did Jesus insist upon finding her in the crowd, he then listened  to her story. Can't you just see Jesus listening with his eyes fixed on her? She would have been satisfied to walk away with her body restored, but Jesus wanted her very personhood restored also. So he listened with his heart and eyes, attentive to her words and her being. And she was made whole again. I believe Jesus also wanted to be more than a healer to her. He wanted her to KNOW the one who heals, and He wanted to BE KNOWN by her. In the end, she had experienced God and His joyful love in the presence of Jesus.

Restoration Ministries is about listening well, to God, to ourselves and to each other. In doing so we are responding to Jesus' command to love God and our neighbor as ourselves.

Come, sit with us awhile. You will find rest for your soul in God's presence.

REGISTER NOW for 11th Step Retreat on Saturday, July 10, 2010

Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

Good results from prayer are beyond question. “They are matters of knowledge and experience. All those who have persisted have found strength not ordinarily their own. They have found wisdom beyond their usual capability. And they have increasingly found a peace of mind which can stand firm in the face of difficult circumstances.” From: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Whether in a 12-Step Recovery program or not, please join with us for a day together to grow more deeply in relationship with God through prayer and meditation.

The 11th Step retreat will be facilitated by Sherry Gaugler. Sherry offers spiritual direction, spiritual retreats and workshops that help participants grow in their recovery into wholeness, freedom and becoming more deeply anchored in their lives and relationships. She is on the staff at The Retreat in Wayzata (www.theretreat.org).

LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Office Center, 952.241.4150
COST: $35.00 (includes lunch)
TIME: 8:30-3:30 pm
REGISTER: To register online, click here.
(Registration payment may be made online at www.restorationmn.org )

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at:  952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm
Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 952.241.4150

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:
Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/
Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

Restoration Ministries offers hope, healing and wholistic growth in Jesus Christ. Caring for individuals, families, churches and organizations, we provide space to know and experience Christ's Holy Presence. We facilitate freedom, healing and wholeness and provide paths for spiritual growth and deeper communion with God by offering:

•Spiritual direction and soul care ministries
•Healing prayer sessions
•Resources for support and recovery at personal and/or family points of fracture
•Scripture and spirituality groups
•Retreats and retreat space where souls can find rest and renewal
•Collaborative ministries with the Church, local and at-large

JUNE 2010

    When I was a college student and wanting to do some serious study, as opposed to going to the small college library which was a great social hangout, I would head to the University of Minnesota’s Wilson Library where I was an unknown and the space was quiet. On one particular evening I was in the Shakespeare shelves (I was an English Literature and Education major trying to track down some piece of research, I’m sure.). I recall standing in the aisle between the stacks of books, a book in hand, intent as I scanned the pages. Oddly, my focus was interrupted by a beckoning kind of noise, “psst.” And then again, “psst.” Finally, I looked up and around, and saw a fellow on the opposite side of the stack in the next aisle, pushing a note through the books to me. Hmmm.
    I remember taking the note, opening it and seeing the words, “Look to your right.” As I turned my head to look down the long, narrow aisle of books, I saw a tall, large (really large in my memory) scraggly-bearded man standing, staring intently and menacingly at me. I was so startled and frightened that I rushed away, quickly moving back to the study desk where my belongings and friend were. My heart still beats a bit faster as I think about it. It was a frightening experience for me.
    At the time I recall trying to make sense of what had happened. I didn’t report it; didn’t tell anyone about it except my friend, and came to the conclusion that someone must have been conducting a sociology experiment to find out people’s responses to a startling and menacing experience. Weird!
    Last week I was, once again, seeking quiet study and prayer time and so took a few days away. It was so great to have time to rest, pray, journal, read and do some writing. Interestingly, the above memory came back to me in a time of prayer. I became aware of this as an unhealed and unprocessed memory which was presently causing me to freeze up and put up a wall, instead of responding in the way that I would like to respond. I believe that God brought this memory to my mind for it to be brought into the light, to have it lose its power over me. I would not on my own have thought about this incident – it hasn’t been in my conscious thought for years. But God knew it was there and getting in my way. And that story is a part of my story.
    Spiritual direction, and the hospitality it offers, provides a space for one to share one’s life story with another, to invite God’s presence and wisdom, to discern God’s guidance and ways. Spiritual practices, such as journaling, solitude, prayer, being in Scripture, among others, all provide context for our spiritual and emotional growth. All of life, however, is formative for our growth and healing, even our memories.
    Check out our website at www.restorationmn.org for further information on spiritual direction and formational opportunities.

CURRENT OPPORTUNITIES:

The Twelve Steps: A Spiritual Journey
Tuesday evenings, 7-8:30 PM
June 15-August 3

As Christians we believe that God reveals much of his plan for each of us in the Holy Scriptures. Both mature Christians and those who are just being awakened to a personal relationship with God can find tremendous value in the Twelve Steps. By regularly applying them to the events of one’s life, the steps become a means for enriching one’s relationship with God. The steps are especially powerful when used together with the regular Christian practices of prayer, meditation and bible study.

The Twelve Steps—A Spiritual Journey contains scriptural passages that illustrate the harmony between the practice of Christianity and the working of the Twelve Steps. The use of Scripture provides an understanding of the Twelve Steps within a biblical context. The steps are a profoundly powerful process for allowing God to heal damaged emotions.

LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Ministry Center
REGISTER: To register online click here.
COST: Please purchase a copy of The Twelve Steps-A Spiritual Journey prior to the first session.  There is no additional cost for this class. Contributions will be accepted.

11th Step Retreat on Saturday, July 10, 2010

Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

Good results from prayer are beyond question. “They are matters of knowledge and experience. All those who have persisted have found strength not ordinarily their own. They have found wisdom beyond their usual capability. And they have increasingly found a peace of mind which can stand firm in the face of difficult circumstances.” From: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Whether in a 12-Step Recovery program or not, please join with us for a day together to grow more deeply in relationship with God through prayer and meditation.

The 11th Step retreat will be facilitated by Sherry Gaugler. Sherry offers spiritual direction, spiritual retreats and workshops that help participants grow in their recovery into wholeness, freedom and becoming more deeply anchored in their lives and relationships. She is on the staff at The Retreat in Wayzata (www.theretreat.org).

LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Office Center,  952.241.4150
COST: $35.00 (includes lunch)
TIME: 8:30-3:30 pm
REGISTER: To register online, click here.
(Registration payment may be made online at www.restorationmn.org)

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit. 

Call to schedule an appointment at: 952.241.4150

Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 7975 Stone Creek Drive, #130, Chanhassen, MN  952.241.4150  

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:
Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian spirituality:
http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/
Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life:
http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings

MAY 2010

Do you not know? Have you not heard?

These are phrases from Scripture that are repeated many times– invitations and reminders of a different way of seeing and hearing, a different way of understanding, of being and responding in the world. These words usually preface statements about who God is and include an invitation to turn our attentiveness to God instead of remaining focused on ourselves and our circumstances.

This different way requires a shift in our awareness. The shift moves us from outside of ourselves, from external circumstances, to inside: our thoughts, emotions, motives and intentions; to outside again in relationships, choices and actions. This shift happens many times throughout a day if we are paying attention. A growing awareness of oneself and one’s own reactions or responses cultivates and fosters growth in our maturity. We can begin to recognize when we react out of our fears and anxiety, and we get opportunity to choose a more thoughtful or discerned response, one that reflects who we are and who we want to become.

I recall a story from when I was facilitating a group focused on spiritual gifts and growth. I asked the group to envision their 80th birthday party: Who would be there? What kind of party would it be? What would be said about you as a tribute on this occasion of celebration? I remember a response from a young woman in the group. After a bit of thought, she said, “I want those who have come to be there because they want to be there, not because they have to be there.” That response still lingers with me. It reflects a way of being in relationship that invites, welcomes, loves and is attractive to others—it reflects being and becoming someone whom others want to be around and with. It is not so much about what we do or have, but who we are and who we are becoming in relationship with God, self and others. It means growing in love, instead of living in fear, anxiousness and controlling behaviors.

As we live in authentic relationship with God, we may find ourselves wanting to become more intentional towards growth in self-awareness, spiritual and emotional maturity. We may have a growing desire to incorporate helpful spiritual practices that open us to God’s wisdom and ways through the Holy Spirit, the mind of Christ, indwelling us. It is possible to become more aware of God’s Spirit and wisdom in the everyday of our lives. It may happen through prayer and listening, through attentiveness to the Scriptures, by being in nature, or by cultivating quiet moments of mind and heart with God to be able to hear and see in a different way.You might ask yourself how that happens for you; how are you cultivating this kind of attentiveness? Yielding ourselves to Christ and the Spirit's work within invites our participation and awareness. We learn to pay attention and cooperate with the Spirit's inner-life work. Take a few moments and read 1 Corinthians 2: 9-16 which includes these words: "What no eye has seen, what no ear has heard, and what no human mind has conceived--these things God has prepared for those who love him....for God has revealed them to us by his Spirit....But we have the mind of Christ."

My concern for our families, our communities, and our world is that we are moving so fast; we stay so busy, distracted or self-absorbed, that we miss cultivating this different way of being, seeing and hearing. Underneath the busyness is often a pervading anxiety and fear which keeps us in motion and struggling to find balance and groundedness. God invites a new way; empowers new understanding and greater wisdom. God sustains a life of love as an active antidote to our fears and fearful ways of being. For we have been given the mind of Christ.

I invite you to consider the simple practice of sitting a bit with God each day. Rest in God's presence.

SPIRITUAL DIRECTION MINISTRY AVAILABLE
Restoration Ministries has a number of trained spiritual directors available to provide spiritual companionship in one-to-one sessions.The intention is to provide space and time to listen, notice and be attentive to God's invitations in one's life and journey, to foster a deeper relationship with God, and to cultivate noticing, discerning and responding to God's Holy Spirit.

Call to schedule an appointment at:   952.241.4150  952.241.4150   952.241.4150

EVENINGS OF LISTENING PRAYER
Every Wednesday: 7-9 pm

Join with us and others for evenings of LISTENING PRAYER. Framed in simple worship, Scripture and prayerful sharing, this space is provided for attentiveness to listening to God and others. We meet every Wednesday evening from 7-9 pm. There is no registration nor cost. Anyone is welcome to come and experience this quiet, worshipful listening space.

Location: Restoration Ministry Center, 7975 Stone Creek Drive, #130, Chanhassen, MN  952.241.4150  952.241.4150

COMING THIS SUMMER:

The Twelve Steps: A Spiritual Journey
Tuesday evenings, 7-8:30 PM
June 15-August 3

As Christians we believe that God reveals much of his plan for each of us in the Holy Scriptures. Both mature Christians and those who are just being awakened to a personal relationship with God can find tremendous value in the Twelve Steps. By regularly applying them to the events of one’s life, the steps become a means for enriching one’s relationship with God. The steps are especially powerful when used together with the regular Christian practices of prayer, meditation and bible study.

The Twelve Steps—A Spiritual Journey contains scriptural passages that illustrate the harmony between the practice of Christianity and the working of the Twelve Steps. The use of Scripture provides an understanding of the Twelve Steps within a biblical context. The steps are a profoundly powerful process for allowing God to heal damaged emotions.

LOCATION: Restoration Ministries Ministry Center
REGISTER: To register online click here.
COST: There is no cost for this class. Contributions will be accepted.

11th Step Retreat on Saturday, July 10, 2010

Sought through prayer and meditation to improve our conscious contact with God as we understood Him, praying only for knowledge of His will for us and the power to carry that out.

Good results from prayer are beyond question. “They are matters of knowledge and experience. All those who have persisted have found strength not ordinarily their own. They have found wisdom beyond their usual capability. And they have increasingly found a peace of mind which can stand firm in the face of difficult circumstances.” From: Twelve Steps and Twelve Traditions. Whether in a 12-Step Recovery program or not, please join with us for a day together to grow more deeply in relationship with God through prayer and meditation.

The 11th Step retreat will be facilitated by Sherry Gaugler. Sherry offers spiritual direction, spiritual retreats and workshops that help participants grow in their recovery into wholeness, freedom and becoming more deeply anchored in their lives and relationships. She is on the staff at The Retreat in Wayzata (www.theretreat.org).

LOCATION: Restoration Ministries 7975 Stone Creek Drive #130 Chanhassen, MN 55317
 952.241.4150  952.241.4150

COST: $35.00 (includes lunch)
TIME: 8:30-3:30 pm
REGISTER: To register online, click here.
(Registration payment may be made online at www.restorationmn.org)

Blessings,

Pastor Jean Leih

For your information and interest:
Dr. Glenn Myers on Christian spirituality: http://www.deepwellswithglennmyers.blogspot.com/
Pastor Jean Leih on integrating faith and life: http://integratingfaithandlife.blogspot.com/

You can find Restoration Ministries Christian Spiritual Direction and Formation on Facebook. Become a fan for the latest news, information and postings