Spiritual Formation
Deepening Our Faith and Connection to God
As Christians there is always more to discover about God, about our faith, and about ourselves. Through small groups, book studies, and retreats, our Spiritual Formation ministries have guided many people to a deeper understanding of their faith, and deeper connections with others in Christian Community.
Group Book Discussion
The Selfless Way of Christ
The Selfless Way of Christ by Henri Nouwen is a brief, profound call to adopt "downward mobility"—imitating Jesus by choosing humility, powerlessness, and service over worldly success. Nouwen challenges the pursuit of upward mobility, urging believers to embrace vulnerability and "selfless attention" to others as the path to spiritual maturity, true belovedness, and community.
The Selfless way of christ
Reading Schedule
April 1- No Group- Holy Week
April 8- The Selfless Way of Christ- Introduction & Part 1
April 15- The Selfless Way of Christ- Part 2
April 22- The Selfless Way of Christ- Part 3
A Fresh Start
New Groups are forming January and February!
Imagine Yourself in Spiritual Formation
Not sure how to enter this kind of intentional growth? Here are three ways First Lutheran offers for the congregation and friends to experience it:
Individual Reflection or Spiritual Direction (Monthly)
Imagine sitting quietly with a spiritual director, who listens deeply and asks gentle questions to help you notice God’s work in your life. This is ideal if you:
Want one-on-one guidance
Are navigating a life transition or season of questioning
Long for a consistent rhythm of reflection and discernment
First Lutheran has many trained spiritual directors in the congregation. Email Michael or Sheila for more information or to set up a time.
Group Reflection or Spiritual Direction (Monthly)
Picture a small circle of people, sharing openly while the group listens deeply. Everyone holds space for one another without fixing or advising, creating a safe environment for discovery. This works well if you:
Enjoy learning from others’ experiences
Appreciate mutual encouragement and community
Want to see God’s movement in a variety of life stories
Group Spiritual Direction Schedule- Once a month, the third Thursday of the month at 6 PM. Starts February 19 Register Here in Advance
A Grace-Filled Invitation
Spiritual formation—through personal reflection, small group conversation, or a guided book study—creates space for God to meet you where you are. It’s not about achieving perfection but about noticing God’s presence, finding clarity, and learning to live more fully into the life God is calling you to. There’s room for you. The only step you need to take is the first one.
What people are saying...
about Spiritual Formation
“Our stories reflect our hopes, dreams, visions, joy, fears, doubts, and failures. It is indeed a blessing to have such an opportunity to grow in my faith journey at church.” - Jasmine Wu
