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Black Contemplative Prayer Summit News & Resources
The decision to host the first Black Contemplative Prayer Summit this month is intentional. It is a way to honor Black History and Black Presence by providing a space, that is for anyone, where Black teachers and thought leaders lead the discussion and practices within the contemplative space. We are excited to welcome you on the 22nd and 23rd!
Each week leading up to the Summit you'll receive a short email that will:
- Help you learn more about our presenters and guides through a series called Meet the Speakers
- Include a contemplative quote for a moment of reflection
- Share resources designed to support your Summit experience and contemplative journey
Your support, presence, and investment mean so much. We are excited to welcome you in a few weeks. Thank you for being part of this inaugural event!
Questions? Reply to this email.
With gratitude,
Tia Norman Host, Black Contemplative Prayer Summit
Pastor, Awakenings, Inc.
P.S. Thank you for continuing to share news of this event with your contemplative connections and circles. You have played a vital part in making this a global gathering.
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Meet the Speakers
Colleen Thomas is an ordained minister, Spiritual Director, writer and podcast host. A longtime practitioner of Centering Prayer, she serves as the Diversity Outreach Coordinator for Contemplative Outreach Ltd. She worked in television in Los Angeles for 15 years before relocating to her hometown of Washington, D.C. where she now serves as the Pastor of Spiritual Formation at Peace Fellowship Church. In 2020 she founded Soul Care LA to offer contemplative prayer groups, workshops, and retreats for young professionals, creatives, and BIPOC communities. Colleen holds an MA in Theology and Art from Fuller Theological Seminary and a certificate in the Art of Spiritual Direction & Retreat Leadership from the Spirituality Center at Mount St. Mary’s in Los Angeles, CA.
Shawn T. Ellison, MA, RN, is a Catholic mystic, contemplative writer, spiritual director, and registered nurse. He is an aspiring member of the Secular Order of the Discalced Carmelites (OCDS), and is passionate about guiding spiritual seekers to an abiding union with God through grace. By contemplative vocation, he experientially identifies with the mystical lineage of St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross, and Bernadette Roberts. He resides in the San Francisco Bay Area with his wife and daughter. Shawn may be contacted for spiritual direction and collaborative inquiries at shawn@contemplativevision.com.
Aesthete, a creative contemplative, spiritual companion, nonprofit and philanthropic consultant, founder of Beautifulle.com, mother, taco lover.
Leonetta is a creative contemplative that thrives at the intersection of culture, faith, and social justice. She is a big believer in beauty and its constant presence and invitation to us—even amidst our deepest struggles. Leonetta is a spiritual companion and coach committed to working in support of BIPOC leaders to experience holistic wellness and liberation. Her personal practice and communal offerings include spiritual care services, organizational consulting, workshop facilitation and teaching, resource and content creation, and other healing modalities. You can learn more about her spiritual practice at www.beautifulle.com
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Reflect
Resources
Books to Guide and Inspire
Our friend, Zee, over at Compass Collective Books agreed to put together a collection of books for the summit. This collection features books written and recommended by those who will serve as presenters in February. It was curated to bring ease to building your library and in support of women owned business.
Enjoy!
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The core mission of Compass Collective Books is to cultivate a safe space of belonging through diverse, inclusive, and healing-centered books. Representation, culture, and connection are near & dear to our heart and we welcome community gatherings in all forms whether that be through virtual or in-person events accessible to readers across the nation or through community events & pop-up shops here in Gainesville, Florida. |
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Summit Scholarships Available
We are working with the Chicago chapter of Contemplative Outreach to create an accessible experience for all who desire to register. To inquire about scholarships email tia@contemplatehouston.com
Save the Date: Join Michael Battle and Julian Davis Reid for An Ancient Flowing Stream
Combining the wisdom and talents of two great teachers, this creative workshop will use storytelling, music, art, and poetry to bring alive the many contributions to contemplative life that flow from Africa and the Black experience and will be hosted by our friends at Contemplative Outreach Chicago on May 3rd.
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