Center for Action and Contemplation

We will be offering a three-hour window with opportunities for contemplative prayer, body prayer with chant, praying through the Labyrinth, and other spiritual preparation exercises. (No additional fee required)

or

A field/service trip in the city of Cleveland. We are asking a suggested donation of $15 to help offset fuel and shuttle expenses (donations will be accepted at the time of the event).

Why not treat yourself with a CAC pre-conference experience to help you move into a relaxed and prayerful space before the conference begins at 3:00pm?

• Pre-registration required!

Please mark the appropriate box on your Registration Form. If you've already registered, email us your request at database@cacradicalgrace.org, with your full name and address.

Contemplative Option rotates through

 

Body Prayer

Body Prayer is a gentle approach to yoga suitable for all body types. Through this prayerful, devotional approach to yoga, this session will help you tap into the inner wisdom of your own body through gentle stretches and awareness of breath.

Taizé

Taizé has become a phenomenon of ecumenical prayer and spirituality. The style of worship is unique. Meditative, repetitive, gentle singing of chants over a period of time, in harmony and with instrumentalists, facilitates a sense of profound depth and union. There are periods of silence, and passages of scripture or spoken prayer between the chants. As we listen, as we become peaceful, as we grow in awareness, these deep prayers continue to resonate in our hearts, and nourish our lives, long after the last notes have relaxed into profound silence. To join in the Taizé prayer, singing experience is not necessary.

Walking Meditation

Walking meditation is a way of learning and praying through movement instead of through thinking. You are walking as if on a pilgrimage, but without a goal. The idea is to let God teach you as you walk. Walking prayer is an ancient spiritual practice used by the faithful.

or

Action Option is:

A field service trip in Cleveland, Ohio

Cleveland, Ohio is widely considered to be the poorest city in the United States. In this experiential pre-conference option, you are invited to join us on a tour of the downtown area - seeing first-hand the affects of poverty on a once-mighty city and its residents. As part of this tour, you will be guests at some of the organizations that are making a difference, including a visit to the Men’s Lakeside Ave Shelter, which gives refuge to 400 men each night. You will hear the voices of those who are caught in a system that offers limited economic opportunities and to witness, first-hand, programs that offer some hope as you meet the people who are making a difference by working alongside the city’s homeless population. There will be other stops along the way for this city tour option – giving you a sense of both the heartbreak and the hopefulness offered in Cleveland. We are asking a suggested donation of $15 to help offset fuel and shuttle expenses (donations will be accepted at the time of the event). There are limited spots available for this pre-conference city tour.