SoulSong Meditation Service Resumes at First Presbyterian

SoulSong is a monthly candlelight service of contemplative readings, special music, and Taize chants which invites each person to be still and listen to the voice within. After an 18 month hiatus because of the pandemic, this service is resuming and will take place on the first Wednesday of the month at 5:30 pm starting October 6th. The service in October will take place outdoors on the front patio of First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael downtown at the corner of 5th Ave and E Street. Starting in November, the SoulSong services will be held indoors in the chapel and cronavirus protocols will be followed. Bay Area pianist and FPCSR musician John Steiner plays for SoulSong. All are welcome to attend.

SoulSong is part of the Contemplative Spirituality Ministry of First Presbyterian Church. This ministry provides opportunities for individuals to grow and nurture their spiritual life.

The 8:30 am Sunday morning Contemplative Worship service in the chapel weaves silence, meditative music, chants, and weekly communion around a sermon message. Discussion is encouraged.

Centering Prayer is a practice of silent prayer and meditation based on the contemplative practices of early Christians. The gathering consists of moving meditation and silent still meditation, followed by time to respond lectio-divina style (to listen with the “ear of the heart”) to readings, poetry, and writings. Centering Prayer is held on Wednesdays from 10 to 11 am in the sanctuary.

Spiritual direction is an opportunity to meet one-on-one with a trained spiritual director who can help you identify and trust your own experiences of the divine; to assist you in discernment and difficult choices; or to share your hopes, struggles, and losses. Trained spiritual directors are available through our church. If you have questions, contact Spirituality Ministry Coordinator Lorna Wuertz, lornawertz@gmail.com.

There are plans for classes and occasional retreats in which the congregation and community can explore spiritual practices of Christianity and other traditions. These practices invite us to expand and deepen our experience of the Holy Mystery in new ways. More details soon.

First Presbyterian Church of San Rafael

The church has both in-person worship and online options available every Sunday. Masks are required for indoor services. The 8:30 am service is a contemplative service in the chapel. The 10:00 am service in the sanctuary features choirs and guest musicians. Live Streaming is available on FPCSR YouTube channel The Adult Education series begins at 11:10 am in the sanctuary and will end at 12:00.

For more information about the church live stream links, programs and community service opportunities, see the church website www.fpcsr.org or call the office 415-456-6760. First Presbyterian Church is located at 1510 Fifth Ave in San Rafael across from the library.