How They Work
Boomerang groups are a great way to not just meet people but to get to really know them. Combined with this is the chance to expand your spiritual journey in dialogue with others who have the same desire to grow. So it is the ideal situation to address real spirituality (which, at Nexus, is our attempt to become fully human – in line with the way God created us). We keep the groups to between 6 and 12 people and we meet weekly at someone’s home. This fall we are offering three types of groups:
FALL 2019
Boomerang Groups
1. DOUBT: A SIGN OF FAITH AND LIFE
Monday or Thursday evenings, 7:30-9:00pm for 7 weeks (Mondays: Oct. 7 – Nov. 25; Thursdays: Oct. 11 – Nov. 28)
The Webster’s definition of doubt is: “To be uncertain about something; be undecided in opinion or belief.” Some synonyms for “doubt” include: apprehension, confusion, disbelief, lack of confidence, misgiving, mistrust quandary, skepticism, suspicion, uncertainty, and reluctance. Do you recognize any of these in your life right now? If you do, you are in the right place as you begin this video series. Journey alongside Rachel Held Evans, Greg Boyd, Peter Rollins, Sarah Bessey, Chris Heuertz, and Dwight Peterson who aren’t afraid to doubt and are convinced that questions and uncertainty are a central element of a vibrant and transforming faith. Who believe that mystery is one of the most central ingredients of faith. Who respect that our questions don’t lead us down a slippery slope where we lose our faith completely but rather to a deeper and more meaningful relationship with God that is built not on certainty and blind obedience, but on honesty, vulnerability, and trust.
These six videos are an excellent launching point for meaningful discussion with other honest friends who are wrestling with their questions and doubts, too. Questions and thoughts will be sent out before each week to consider while you watch the video.
SESSION TITLES:
Born Again All over Again (7:30 min) – Sarah Bessey
Are you Afraid of Doubt? (1:28 min) – Peter Rollins
The Gift of Doubt (7:02 min) – Chris Heuertz
Losing My Faith (6:31 min) – Dwight Peterson
Keeping Faith Awake (2:53 min) – Rachel Held Evans
The Idolatry of Certainty (11:57 min) – Greg Boyd
2. RETREAT IN DAILY LIFE – Personal Spiritual Mentoring with Susan Murphy
6 weeks: Oct. 28, Nov. 4, 11, 18 & 25, with the closing session in the 1st week of Dec.
Many of us do not have the luxury of being able to take any extended time away from our busy lives for some days of retreat and spiritual renewal. However, by participating in a Retreat in Daily Life, you commit to spending just 30 minutes a day over the course of 5 weeks, in which you can experience the same deepening of your spirit and your connection to God!
As part of this group (limited to 4-6 people), you would be committing to:
Attending one evening for the opening session as below;
- Spending 30 minutes a day for 5 weeks in prayer and contemplation on the scriptures that are provided;
- Meeting at a pre-arranged time once a week one-on-one with Susan Murphy who is a trained spiritual director for a 30-45 min session of spiritual direction.
- Attending the final evening for the closing session as below.
There is a nominal fee and the time commitment is outlined above. The goal is to learn to engage with the Scriptures in a meaningful and prayerful way and to deepen one’s connection and relationship with God. You will also get a chance to experience the value of spiritual mentoring.
Opening Session: Thursday, October 28, 7:00-9:30pm – 122 Mansion St, Kitchener
Closing Session: First week of December, to be arranged, 7:00-9:30pm – 122 Mansion St, Kitchener
For any further details or questions, please contact Susan at susan@smurphland.com.
3. PODCAST THEOLOGY
Tuesday evenings, 7:30–9:00pm – 200 Queen St (across from the Kitchener Public Library) Starts Tuesday Oct. 1
Each week the group will decide on a podcast to listen to ahead of the meeting and come prepared to discuss it. A question sheet will be sent out before the meeting to help you prepare. This evening is meant to be a discussion with members bringing their thought, challenges, and disagreements that were prompted by the podcast. The podcasts will reflect a diverse number of topics from many thoughtful people.
– Email Murray Baker at mbakerivcf@rogers.com or sign up at the back table on Sunday morning! Sign-up begins Sept. 15 All registration is limited. Groups one are limited to 12. Group 2 is limited to 5 or 6 (first come first served). Group 3 has only about 4 spots left as this is a continuing group from the summer.