In the Spring of this year, I heard an engaging podcast from my colleague, Loren Richmond Jr. about innovation in congregations. One of the guests was Tessa Pinkstaff and she talked about Dwelling in the Word. I was fascinated by this spiritual practice where a group heard Scripture, sat in silence for a few moments, and then heard the passage again.
During our Bible Study time, I decided to try Dwelling in the Word with our congregation this past fall. The result has been favorable. One of the things I love about it is that it isn’t as dependent on an expert (namely the pastor) but on the whole group. Because it places more on how the Holy Spirit is moving, there is more room for other voices.
So in this episode, I engage with Tessa Pinkstaff. Tessa is the program manager at Luther Seminary and co-author of "Leading Faithful Innovation, Following God into a Hopeful Future." During our talk, we explore the Dwelling in the Word, emphasizing its role in revitalizing congregations through a contemplative approach to Scripture. Tessa shares her journey into faith, detailing how community and lived experiences of spirituality shape deeper connections with God. We discuss how this practice, akin to Lectio Divina, invites communal listening and reflection, fostering humility among church leaders and enhancing collective engagement.
If you are the leader of a congregation or just want to engage in a spiritual practice, you will enjoy this episode. You can listen here on Substack or by listening on your favorite podcast app. If you’re listening on Apple Podcasts, please consider leaving a review. It makes it easier for people to find the podcast.
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