A New Lenten Resource from SSJE: Rule of Life Workbook
Rule of Life Lenten Resource
Looking for a new Lenten resource that works for individuals and groups and is free? “Growing a Rule of Life” is a brand new Lenten workbook for individuals and congregations. It is produced by SSJE (Society of St. John the Evangelist), in partnership with the Center for the Ministry of Teaching at Virginia Theological Seminary.
What is it? (according to the website blurb)
“In this series, we focus on God as the Chief Gardener of our souls, and we seek out ways to grow into the fullness he desires. Just as stakes and lattices nurture the growth of young plants, so too can spiritual disciplines support the flourishing of our whole being. This series uses a tool from monastic spirituality called a ‘Rule of Life’ to explore and cultivate our relationships with God, Self, Others, and Creation. This is an exciting opportunity to dig deep and dream big about ways to live into a more abundant life with Christ.”
Through a combination of readings, videos, and guided questions, participants will spend the 6 weeks of Lent discovering what a Rule of Life is, and what their relationship is with God, with their self, with others, and with creation. As participants discover what is life-giving in each type of relationship, they will also discover what needs to be nurtured in their spiritual lives in order for their gardens to flourish.
Using the metaphor of the garden, participants will visualize what their personal Rule of Life. Based on the work they have done during the season of Lent, each individual’s Rule of Life will have a few, simple, realistic steps they can take to nurture their relationships in each quadrant (God, Self, Others, and Creation).
Who is this Resource for?
This series is designed for both individuals and small groups. A downloadable resource guide makes facilitation easy for small groups. Groups gather once a week to walk through the workbook together, while also receiving daily videos. For individuals, daily videos and reflections will lead them through the same process. Ultimately each participant will create a unique Rule of Life or ‘Garden Plot’ to sustain and expand beyond the class.
Participants will be able to:
• Design a balanced plan for growing into a deeper relationship with God, Self, Others, and Creation.
• Celebrate areas of their lives that are thriving and explore areas that need extra nourishment.
• Tune their sensitivity to the rhythms of nature to help them in keeping a Rule of Life.
• Grow in fellowship with other participants and support them through the growing process.
Where Can I get it?
You can get copies via free download, or single or bulk copies at cost via Amazon.