A time and place apart

Namasté. My spirituality group has been meeting since 2010. While only two of us remain from the original configuration, our membership is stable with group size capped at twelve to foster a level of intimacy, trust, and sharing. The same women have reaffirmed their commitment over the last few years.

For our group, we chose the name Namasté, an expression that translates as “the God in me greets and blesses the God in you.” This term recognizes our common divinity. Regularly scheduled meetings help foster a contemplative atmosphere for seekers committed to a path of awakening and wishing to experience God in the unfolding of lives. We gather as a community for strengthening, accountability, to develop mindfulness, and engage in social justice opportunities.

The group is the vehicle that allows this to happen. A few times each year, we ask members to reflect on their individual gifts and commitment to the group. Being “all in” is essential for strengthening the bonds and creating, developing, and achieving the Namaste vision. Keeping the group vibrant takes everyone’s contributions and leadership.

We regularly discern our willingness to continue as part of the group and are intentional about revisiting and abiding by group guidelines:

Confidentiality
Speaking from the heart
Taking shared responsibility for facilitation and program organization
Respecting others means respecting everyone’s time
Holding each other accountable
Honoring our commitment.

He called the twelve disciples together and sent them out two by two. Mark 6:7

Namasté’s core values:
• Commitment: Commit wholeheartedly. Show up on time and prepared, ready to participate and share leadership.
• Connection: Recognize that group members are pilgrims journeying together.
• Community: It’s not enough to focus on ourselves and the group. We serve others through individual and collective ministries.

Namasté has evolved over time. At its core, the group continues to pursue the building an intentional family that cares for each other. We pursue community through silence and reflection; deepening relationships through sharing, encouragement, and questioning; and educating ourselves and others as guided by Spirit. Giving and getting; reaping and sowing.