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Center for Action and Contemplation

In the Desert, at the Border: Seeking a Contemplative Path at the Edge of Empire

August 29th, 2025
I was born in the desert—in Jordan, not far from where the early Christian desert mystics withdrew into the wilderness, seeking deeper communion with God. They weren’t just escaping the world, but searching for clarity, transformation, and freedom from the illusions of empire and ego. In silence and simplicity

Seven Stories | Season 5 Wrap-Up of “Learning How to See”

On season 5 of “Learning How to See,” Brian McLaren dives into conversation with Gareth Higgins, a writer and speaker who works in peace building and violence reduction. Together, Brian and Gareth invite you to explore the story patterns that can lead us towards — and away from — a more equitable and loving

Julian of Norwich | Season 6 Wrap-Up of “Turning to the Mystics”

What wisdom can the great Christian mystics offer us today?  In season 6 of “Turning to the Mystics” James Finley and Kirsten Oates turn to 14th-century English mystic Julian of Norwich for spiritual guidance. Throughout this season, James works with Julian’s text, “The Showings,” exploring how we may

Cultivating Inner Freedom  | August’s “We Conspire” Series

August 22nd, 2025
We Conspire is a series from the Center for Action and Contemplation featuring wisdom and stories from the growing Christian contemplative movement. Sign up for the monthly email series and receive a free invitation to practice each month.  SUBSCRIBE TODAY   In August’s “We Conspire” series

Recovery for Life

August 22nd, 2025
We Conspire is a series from the Center for Action and Contemplation featuring wisdom and stories from the growing Christian contemplative movement. Sign up for the monthly email series and receive a free invitation to practice each month.  SUBSCRIBE TODAY In August’s “We Conspire” series, discover

The Way of the Desert 

August 22nd, 2025
We Conspire is a series from the Center for Action and Contemplation featuring wisdom and stories from the growing Christian contemplative movement. Sign up for the monthly email series and receive a free invitation to practice each month.  SUBSCRIBE TODAY What does it mean to seek freedom—not just

Cultivating Inner Freedom

August 22nd, 2025
We Conspire is a series from the Center for Action and Contemplation featuring wisdom and stories from the growing Christian contemplative movement. Sign up for the monthly email series and receive a free invitation to practice each month.  SUBSCRIBE TODAY In August’s “We Conspire” series, Rev.

Learning How To See Nature | Season 6 Wrap-Up of “Learning How to See” 

On season 6 of “Learning How to See,” we look at nature from the perspective of a child, a scientist, a lover, a doctor, a seeker, and a gardener.   Join us for a season of developing a deeper connection and appreciation for the natural world. We need to see every tree and stone, every bird and fish, every

CAC Honors August Holy Days and Holidays | St. Clare Feast Day, Dormition of the Mother of God, and Krishna Janmashtami  

This August, the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) embraces holy days and holidays that invite us to learn from great spiritual teachers.  St. Clare Feast Day: Discovering Mystical Wisdom On August 11, we celebrate the Feast Day of St. Clare, St. Francis of Assisi’s spiritual and earthly companion.

Join Our Contemplative Gatherings | The News from New Mexico

This month, learn more about these opportunities to further your spiritual growth and explore the contemplative path of transformation. Explore August's Featured Experiences  Online Event — What Makes Contemplative Christianity Different?  Carmen Acevedo Butcher Joins CAC Core Faculty! Join Us Online

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