Silence and journaling

It seems that so much of our lives are lived in chaotic noise that we are strangers to true silence. And yet it is my experience that without this time and space created for silence we cannot really come to know God. Consequently, we have no time to journal and let our hearts pour forth their language of searching, discovery and joy. What has been your experience of silence?
Your fellow pilgrim, Curtis

Small Beginnings

I am trying to get this blog going. My heart's desire is to create a community of interchange with like-minded pilgrims who are seeking God with all their heart. I am slated to give another presentation this July at Lipscomb's Summer Celebration on spiritual journaling. Let me know if you are interested in continued dialogue.
Yours in Him, Curtis

Lipscomb Celebration Center for Spiritual Renewal

The experience at the Center for Spiritual Renewal was rewarding indeed. I made two presentations in workshop/seminar format at the Longview Mansion. I am hoping that this blogspot will work so I can be in conversation with those of you who attended. My first presentation was on "Prayer and Our Bodies." The second presentation was on "Spiritual Journaling." I pray that God in His divine wisdom will use our time together to further the journeys of those who came.
Yours in Jesus,
Curtis

The above entry was right after the Summer Celebration in July. This past week I made another presentation on "Spiritual Journaling." We had 28 who signed up for this event. It is my desire to provide a place for those who have gone through the Academy for Spiritual Formation and/or the Shalem Institute or other comparable experiences so that continuing dialogue and learning may occur. Pass the word along so that others may access this blog site.
Yours in Jesus, Curtis (Friday, Nov. 18, 2005)

First Posting of CONNEXUS SPIRITUS

Welcome Participants from Center for Spiritual Renewal:

This is the first posting of a new blog site I have set up for our group. The process is all new to me, so you will have to be patient. I am hoping that we can get all on the listserve correctly connected to this blog. I will be guiding some discussions and inviting your feedback and direction also.

I want to ask a question and have all of you respond who desire. I am slated to make two presentations this summer on journaling as a spiritual discipline. Here are my questions:

1. How has journaling aided your spiritual formation?

2. When and how do you actual journal?

3. What resources have been the most helpful for you in this area?

And, finally, do you agree with this statement?--"No spiritual formation can occur without journaling."

Looking forward to some wonderful discussions.

Yours in Jesus,

Curtis

Dr. Curtis D. McClane

Chair, Biblical Studies Department

Professor of Religion & Spiritual Formation

Global Christian University

Adjunct Professor of Ethics

National College of Business & Technology