Contemplative Spirituality Groups
What Are Contemplative Spirituality Groups?
While the groups are Christ-centered, they are intentionally inclusive and welcome people of all faiths or no faith at all.
LGBTQ+ Spiritual Conversations (Queer-Only Group)
Our contemplative spirituality gatherings began in 2019 as a queer-only group, created to offer a safe and sacred space for LGBTQ+ people to explore spirituality together. The group meets every other Monday evening and invites participants to share their journeys, practice deep listening, and support one another in community.
Each gathering follows a simple rhythm that includes introductions and check-ins, a contemplative practice such as lectio divina, and group conversation. While the group is Christ-centered, it is intentionally inclusive and welcomes people of all faiths or no faith at all. To honor the need for dedicated queer space, this gathering is reserved for those who identify as LGBTQ+.
This group is co-hosted by The Journey Center and is led by pastor and spiritual director Matt Nightingale.
Contemplative Spirituality Group (Allies Welcome)
In 2021, this allies-welcome group emerged in response to requests from non-queer friends and supporters who wanted to engage contemplative spirituality in community alongside LGBTQ+ people. Meeting on alternate Monday evenings, the group remains deeply rooted in LGBTQ+ experience while also welcoming allies who desire to listen, learn, and journey together with care and respect.
Each gathering follows the same simple rhythm of introductions and check-ins, a contemplative practice such as lectio divina, and group conversation. While many participants come from Christian backgrounds, the group is intentionally inclusive and welcomes people of all faiths or no faith at all.
This group is co-hosted by The Journey Center and The Quest and is led by pastor and spiritual director Matt Nightingale.