In some ways, Christine, I think the church you are wondering about is a lot like the church Jesus was about.  As a Jew, Jesus actively participated in the customs and traditions of his people.  He honored the sabbath, he celebrated Passover, he was thoughtful about the teachings he received in the temple and from Earth itself.  He also made it his practice to question dogma, to call out hypocrisy, and point to rituals that had been co-opted by those who were misusing their power.  He routinely gathered people together to engage in meaningful conversation that brought about personal growth and social transformation.  The gatherings took place near lakes and by mountains.  Food was shared, and children and people of all races and physical abilities were warmly welcomed.

We know all of this from studying the Hebrew scriptures and the New Testament, so if following Jesus is our reason for being part of a church, including some form of biblical reflection will be important.  That said, if the above feels closer to the sort of gathering that would hold meaning for you, you are not alone.  Many Progressing Spirit authors and readers are finding fantastic ways to do church in the ways you’ve described.  When we emphasize community and soul nourishment, perhaps some suggestions on this list will help you and others to create the church you seek:

Love and honor nature.  Welcome wildness, and Life’s full cycle of birth-death-rebirth by centering nature throughout your worship and liturgy.  As seasons allow, meet outdoors.

Sit in a circle.  Dismantle the pews, pulpit, and hierarchical patterns.  Include the pastor or worship leader(s) in a circle of chairs (concentric circles if needed).  Sharing in a circle does not minimize that clergy have specialized training; rather, it helps us to appreciate that we all make valuable offerings as mentors and learners.

Remember our bodies.  In addition to our minds, encourage input from our bodies. Begin and end with a body prayer, Tai Chi or, for those who wish, shoulder rubs and hugs.  Welcome song, art, and dance as a divine channel for insight and revelation.  Share food together!

Include interaction.  The process of the group gathering and relating holds equal or greater value than “the lesson.”  Connecting through questions and dialogue invites everyone to learn through engagement.

Revere the soul.  Welcome emotions and feelings as a source of new understanding and space for the community to grow together in care and resilience.  Leave space in your gathering for uncertainty, grief, and confusion to be held rather than “fixed.”  Our souls develop depth and courage in the presence of others who are willing to journey vulnerably.

Fear, scarcity, and separation are a plague on our species. Social anxiety, loneliness, and isolation are one result.  Coming together for soul nourishment in community restores us.  Together, we can grow and heal ourselves in the generosity, love, and reciprocity that is Christos, the divine light illuminating all.

~ Rev. Lauren Van Ham