Beginning Sunday, January 4, we will begin a special twelve-week forum series that focuses on key aspects of what it means to be human and practice our faith.
Building on prior conversations, we will focus intently on practices around creativity and imagination as we explore the deeper dimensions of our faith. Each week we plan on profiling a different practice or element that fosters creativity and imagination as we seek to make meaning in the world today. As the saying goes, “there are as many ways to pray as there are to be human.”
To help with the conversations, we invite everyone to use the wonderful revised The Artist’s Way: 30th Anniversary Edition by Julia Cameron. This is a fantastic resource that offers a structured twelve-week conversation with guided questions and workshop elements. And, just to be clear, there is not just one way to “be an artist;” rather the book focuses on what it means to be truly human and participate with Divine Creativity in the world around us. We continue to learn how it is essential to foster imagination in our lives.
We will meet each Sunday morning at 9:30 AM in the parish hall for conversation and reflection, so all are encouraged to come share in this time!
What Does Creativity and Imagination Mean to Me
by Sandee GorhamFor me, creativity and imagination feel like something bigger than just being “artistic” or having hobbies or talents – working together, they feel spiritual and speak to my soul. I truly believe they are God’s gifts to us…this built-in spark that lets us dream, explore and play. And when we allow ourselves to tap into them, it feels like our gift back to God. It’s like saying, “Thanks for the spark…here’s what I did with it.”
When I open myself to imagination and creativity through my thoughts, dreams or intentions, I notice these gently but powerful shifts in how I think and feel. It’s like something wakes up again in me – a sense of wonder and freedom, as if I am allowed to explore without limits. It stirs up purpose, honesty, and humility, too, because being creative means showing up as my authentic self and admitting I don’t have all the answers. It builds resilience, because creating anything – big or small – takes courage and the willingness to try again. And in the middle of all that it brings joy rooted in faith and a nudge toward meaning, and ultimately, my purpose.
So, when I move toward my dreams and promptings even in small ways, it feels like I’m moving closer to the divine. Creativity and imagination become more than self-expression and more like a spiritual conversation…and a pathway toward transformation.
“We must be willing to let go of the life we have planned, so as to accept the life that is waiting for us.” – Joseph Campbell