Adult Study Opportunity starting Monday, October 26, 2020
Soul Care
In a recent e-news article, I told you that soon we will be introducing opportunities for spiritual growth and study. Today, we are sharing with you one of these exciting opportunities. It is called Soul Care Matters and will be facilitated by John Kiemele, one of the talented staff members of Rolling Ridge Retreat Center. Below you will find his introduction to the program:”Rolling Ridge Retreat Center in North Andover and First United Methodist team up to host “Soul Care Matters,” a 4-week online spiritual formation group experience in the way of Jesus.
Starting Monday, October 26, these four Zoom gatherings offer a grace-filled experience of spiritual companionship, time-honored spiritual practices, and mutual encouragement and support for our journeys. Drawing from Parker Palmer’s “circles of trust” and Christian contemplative tradition, these intentional small groups provide enriching spiritual resources that anchor and care for our souls, and offer meaningful connections with others, especially during these challenging and disorienting times. Rolling Ridge Program Director, John Kiemele, PhD, will facilitate each of the weekly online soulcare groups. Each gathering will start at 7 p.m. and last 60-75 minutes. We extend a warm welcome to everyone and hope you can join us for these four Monday evenings! Please RSVP so that we can send you the Zoom link.” If you are interested in learning more about this program our to sign up, please email Pastor Travis at reverendtravis@gmail.com
Want to learn more about our Soul Care guide? Keep reading to learn about John Kiemele.
“From the Upper Great Plains to the urban shores of the Pacific Northwest to the New England Seacoast, John Kiemele has assisted individuals, small groups, classrooms, and congregations with intentional soul care. John is a wellbeing educator and spiritual director who currently companions individuals, teaches various lifestyle classes, leads contemplative retreats, and serves as Program Director at Rolling Ridge Retreat Center. Prior to his recent move to the Northeast, John founded and served as executive director of Selah Center, a dispersed community of contemplative companions in the greater Seattle area. Recognizing how intentional pausing and listening unlocks life, John strives to engage the whole person – body, mind, soul – in the lifelong process of living well. John received his PhD in education/spirituality from Talbot School of Theology, and holds post-doctoral certificates in Spiritual Direction, the Enneagram Spectrum, Wellness Coaching, and Mindful Self-Compassion. He is also an ordained pastor who has served congregations across the US and Canada. John enjoys spending time with his wife, Marissa, baking, walking, traveling, visiting cathedrals and monasteries, attending live theater, and rummaging through antique shops.”