Here at St. Michael’s, growth in a living relationship with God is approached as a lifelong adventure. Jesus promises that “where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I in the midst of them,” and perhaps this is why many of us have found that getting together to explore and share our faith is such a great blessing. Seasonal offerings during Advent and Lent help us attend more deeply to God’s presence in our lives. At times a meditative book is read and discussed, and at other times topical speakers are invited, or prayers and silences are interwoven around simple meals. Throughout the program year, adults converse over coffee on Sundays at 10:25 am for adult education held in the Gathering Room.
St. Michael’s also maintains a small library of books on prayer, Scripture, spirituality, church history, theology and other topics of interest. Anyone may borrow books from the library. A Book Exchange shelf offers an ongoing opportunity to share old books and read new ones.
Reading the Bible
Our faith tradition calls us to prayerful engagement with the sacred stories and teachings found in Holy Scripture. As we hear Scripture in worship Sunday by Sunday, and as we read and ponder the words of the Bible in study groups or at home, Scripture becomes our script for faithful living as we face the challenges of daily life in today’s world.
Reflecting together on Scripture in Bible Study groups allows us to share our questions, experiences, and insights. Daily reading of Scripture is also an important spiritual practice for Episcopalians. One way to do this is to follow the readings in the Church’s Daily Lectionary—a schedule that contains readings for every day of the Church year. Another source for daily Scripture readings is Forward Day by Day which lists the Bible references for daily readings and contains a short meditation on a Bible verse for each day.
Another way of reading the Bible that has helped many Christians to grow into a deeper relationship with God is called Lectio Divina, or “sacred reading.” This prayerful way of reading encourages us to listen attentively and make room for God’s Spirit to speak to us from within as we ponder the words of Scripture.
Daily Prayer
The first Christians were spiritually formed in the Jewish faith, and so were accustomed to prayer at fixed times throughout each day. They continued this practice as followers of Jesus, and it has shaped the prayer life of the Church over many centuries. Our Book of Common Prayer contains a Daily Office of Morning and Evening Prayer, as well as prayer at Noon and night prayer called Compline. These services contain psalms and other songs from Scripture, Bible readings, and prayers for the Church and the world. When we pray this way, we are praying in union with Christians all over the world.
Our Book of Common Prayer also includes Daily Devotions for Individuals and Familes. These prayers take only a few minutes and keep us connected to God throughout the day.
Other Opportunities for Growth
Many opportunities for lifelong learning and spiritual growth beyond the parish setting are offered by the Diocese of Olympia , a regional network of Episcopal parishes which includes St. Michael’s. Contact the church office for more information.