TIPS & TOOLS

Definition of Discernment
Discernment. The biblical concept of discernment is rooted primarily in the vision of the people of God living in a theocracy, where God guides the people in their daily and national lives and relationships. The whole nation knows and does the will of God. This was the vision of the early Hebrew experience. This vision of a "Kingdom of God" and a "People of God" needed spiritual leaders such as Moses and prophets to help the people come to know and experience the direct guidance of the Holy Spirit. Read More

Definition of Spiritual Formation
Although many reading this article are familiar, even comfortable, with spiritual formation, you may find the following definition a helpful tool as you attempt to define spiritual formation for others: Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ by the gracious working of God's spirit, for the transformation of the world. Read More

Holy Listening
Companions in Christ introduces us to spiritual practices and invites us to make them part of our daily lives. One of these practices is listening, or more specifically, holy listening. When we practice holy listening in the company of a friend or small group, we make ourselves fully present to the speaker. We listen with our ears, our hearts, and with that mysterious part of our being, our souls. Although the spoken words are important, what we see and do not see, what we sense and find absent, also informs us. Read More

Managing Multiple Groups in Your Congregation
Keeping multiple small groups going can be challenging. Belmont United Methodist Church in Nashville, Tennessee has six Companions in Christ groups meeting in addition to their other ministry groups. Recruiting, publicizing, resourcing, and keeping good communication within and among all these groups can be difficult. And there is also the need to look ahead -- what are the future needs of these groups, and what should be done now to prepare for the future? Read More

Questions and Answers About the New 5
The new 5-piece Participant's Book set has elicited many grateful responses, and some good questions. Here are a few frequently asked questions and answers. Read More

Sharing the Companions Experience with Your Congregation
In the fall of 2001, I gathered with nine others to begin a 28-week journey as Companions in Christ. Through daily individual reading and guided spiritual exercises, we have immersed ourselves in the spiritual disciplines of scripture, study and worship. Read More

Starting New Companions Groups
Getting ready to start new Companions groups? Here are a few pointers: We have found that the optimum size of a Companions group is 6-10 persons, including the leader. 6-8 is ideal; 10-12 is workable, especially if you break down into smaller clusters for some of the sharing times. Read More

The Practice of Journaling
To "journal" means to record your thoughts, feelings, questions, and insights over time. There is a difference between keeping a diary and keeping a journal. And a typical journal differs from a spiritual journal. Read More

The Process of Spiritual Formation
Spiritual formation is the process by which God forms us into the persons we are meant to be, Christ-like persons. Being re-shaped according to the pattern of Jesus' mind, heart, and work is the gracious labor of the Holy Spirit, moving within us personally and among us as Christian community. This transforming work takes us into ourselves and carries us out toward others in an endless, mutually reinforcing spiral of growth. Read More

The Way of Forgiveness groups
For those of you who have begun The Way of Forgiveness, we want to offer a few words of encouragement and counsel. The topic of forgiveness and reconciliation is deep and challenging, perhaps one of the very greatest challenges in our Christian walk. Read More

The Way of Transforming Discipleship
I became a Christ-follower at the age of seventeen. The gracious invitation to "follow me" that was rooted in a great love that had sought me from my very beginnings burned its way into my heart and evoked both desire and response. Ever since that moment of new beginning I have been learning from Jesus how to live the one life that I have been given. Read More

Using Companions to Shape a Retreat
Have you ever considered using portions of Companions in Christ to shape other kinds of spiritual formation opportunities in your congregation or ministry setting? We'd like to suggest that you give this prayerful and creative consideration. Read More

Considerations in Seeking a Spiritual Director
Depending on what you are seeking, you will want to find a spiritual guide with gifts for such guidance. Not everyone knows how to help you with your dreams, for example. So don't be afraid to ask direct, open questions about or to a prospective spiritual director. If you think you have found someone you'd like to work with, set up a time for an initial meeting. Get acquainted. Ask the person about his or her "style" of direction and how s/he perceives his or her own gifts. Be as specific as you can about what you hope for in the relationship. A good spiritual guide knows his/her gifts and limits and won't be offended if you decide it's not the best match.. Read More