On the SoulStream “Living from the Heart” podcast, we explore encountering God personally, integrating body, soul, mind, and spirit to live authentically in Christ. We discuss becoming open to God’s presence, overcoming obstacles, embracing transformation into Jesus’ image, and cultivating supportive practices. Additionally, we delve into understanding prayer as responsive to the Holy Spirit, ancient practices, and living out contemplative prayer to love neighbors, care for the earth, and seek justice.
On the SoulStream Living from the Heart podcast, we sit down with teacher and spiritual director Laurel Pritchard for a thoughtful conversation about listening, contemplation, and living from the heart.
Laurel reflects on how spiritual direction found her during a season of intense study, silence, and a longing for deeper conversation, and how contemplation for her has become less about adding and more about letting go.
We talk about the rare gift of being truly heard, learning to live with uncertainty, and meeting our thoughts and emotions with kindness.
Resources mentioned in the conversation
• SoulStreamA community offering training, courses, and retreats in spiritual direction and contemplative practice.
• Regent CollegeA graduate school of theology where Laurel studied during a formative season of her spiritual journey.
• Thomas KeatingTrappist monk and teacher of centering prayer
• Centering PrayerA contemplative prayer practice rooted in silence and consent to God’s presence and action.
• Spiritual DirectionA contemplative practice of listening and companionship focused on noticing God’s movement in everyday life.
• The EnneagramA personality framework Laurel references, particularly identifying with Enneagram Type Four.
• Desmond TutuReferenced for his wisdom around holding the pain of the world with prayer and compassion.
• Brian DoerksenMentioned in a story about embracing the life we are given without wishing for another.
The last Living from the Heart podcast episode on SubStack:
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