NBC “Today” show co-host and devout Christian Kathie Lee Gifford has labeled the “Sensible Shoes” series of books among her favorite things.
Sharon Garlough Brown, the author of those internationally distributed books on key spiritual practices, will lead a women’s retreat titled “Breathe: Find Rest For Your Soul” beginning at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 3 at Community Church of Columbus. The gathering is open to any female interested in building their faith. The deadline for a $25 ticket that includes a meal is today, but tickets without food are available up to the day of the event.
Cheryl Dougherty, among the retreat organizers, knows the impact of the series in her own Christian growth.
“These books really stopped me in my tracks, and caused me to consider ways to deepen my relationship with God,” Dougherty said. “We are anxious to allow other women to hear of her insight, and practical disciplines of a spiritual walk with Jesus.”
Brown, a former pastoral ministry leader based in Michigan, promises “a day to slow down and practice disciplines that help us keep in step with the unhurried rhythm of Jesus.” That includes the practice of what is known as lecto divino, a traditional Benedictine practice of scriptural reading, meditation and prayer intended to promote communion with God.
Brown served on the pastoral staff of churches in Scotland, England, Oklahoma and West Michigan. She left pastoral ministry in 2016 in order to devote herself to writing, retreats and offering spiritual direction.
The four-book “Sensible Shoes” series focuses on the story of four strangers who embark together on a journey of spiritual formation. The foursome reluctantly arrives at a retreat center “and find themselves drawn out of their separate stories of isolation and struggle and into a collective journey of spiritual practice, mutual support, and personal revelation,” Brown said.
Dougherty mentioned that, in the past, the books have been a part of Community Church of Columbus’ monthly book club. The church sometimes attracts as many as 200 to 300 people for such retreats.
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What: Women’s retreat "Breathe: Find Rest For Your Soul." The gathering featuring national Christian author Sharon Garlough Brown will allow women "to come away for a day to slow down and practice disciplines that help us keep in step with the unhurried rhythm of Jesus," according to organizers. Indianapolis worship leader Laura Dingman will also be part of the event.
When: 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Nov. 3.
Where: Community Church of Columbus, 3850 N. Marr Road in Columbus.
Cost: $25 per person. Today is the deadline to sign up to get a lunch as part of the registration. But tickets without food will be available until the day of the event.
Information: 812-376-9478 or cccolumbus.org or email to [email protected].
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