Hello Again

It's been a while. There's a lot I could write, but I've saved most of that for myself and for the manuscript I recently turned in. Even though it won't release for a while now, I want you to know that I wrote it with many of you,shalomsick ones, in mind and heart. It's all about the longings and aches in each of us and in the world, and what it can look like to embrace those aches individually and communally, and let them lead us to Jesus. More to come on all of that… Thanks for reading Shalomsick Notes! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work. In the meantime, and coming even sooner (March 16, '27) is my first children's book:You Are A Poem. I shared a cover reveal on instagram some time ago, but I want to share it here with you as well. My friend, Shelley Hanmo, a talented paper artist and wonderful human, illustrated the book and brought the words to life in such beautiful way. You can find Shelley's workhere. I wrote You Are A Poem as a celebration of two things I love: poetry and people. It's book that reminds readers that they are uniquely created image bearers: 'You are the only poem in the cosmos created to be you' It was inspired by Paul's letter to the church found in the Book of Ephesians, reminding the people there that they are a 'masterpiece,' (or 'poeima' in Greek). Pre-order the book here. Also, if you are connected to a school and would like to bring Shelley and I for an author/illustrator visit in the months after it releases, please reach out. Last June, I finished my second year of training to be a spiritual director throughFall Creek Abbey. I had such a good experience with my cohort, fellow classmates, and the teachers and leaders who faithfully led us. I can't speak highly enough about it all and I'd be happy to share more with anyone interested in learning more about the school I attended or this ancient and ordinary practice of soul care called spiritual direction. While I mostly be meet one-on-one with directees, after considering some of the requests I've gotten from others, I also decided to offer a group spiritual direction opportunity that will begin at the end of next month (October). This group will be intentionally small, meet for six sessions (with opportunities to continue on after the sessions are complete). There are set times for these sessions and though I know daytime slots aren't always possible for many, it's what I am able to do now. Depending on interest levels, I may open up another group at another time. This group is for anyone, but especially for those who are aware of an ache they are holding and long to have guided space with others to share and listen for God's nearness in the midst of it. I will close the application form at the end of September. If you've applied already, know that I have your information and I will take applicants on a first-come-first-serve basis along with consideration for the fit of the group and availability. I will reach out to all who have applied in the beginning of October. Find theapplicationwith a little more informationhere, or use the QR code below if there's someone you think would benefit from an offering like this. Spiritual direction with a small, committed group Guided listening and attunement Shared contemplative practices Six 90 minute sessions over zoom (with the opportunity to continue on after the sixth session). We will meet on a Friday at 1pm ET in Oct, Nov, Jan, Feb, March, and Shalomsick with you, 'The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.' ―Elisabeth Kübler-Ross Tell Me The Dream Again Thanks for reading Shalomsick Notes! Subscribe for free to receive new posts and support my work.