Awaken To God: Recent Episodes
Project Zion Podcast
Created in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, this series features guided spiritual practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you. The original set is A1 thru A10. More guided practices are added periodically. Push pause on your life for fifteen minutes and receive a gift of peace…in the midst of the storm.
United, free, and independent … all words associated with Independence Day in the United States of America. But what do they mean in a diverse global community seeking to engage the mission of Jesus Christ? Join host Robin Linkhart for a spiritual practice created to help reflect what these words mean individually and corporately as...Source
This episode of Awaken to God’s Presence offers a guided practice for connecting with the divine during troubled times. Host Robin Linkhart leads listeners in a prayer recognizing Pride Month, which honors the LGBTQ community and its contributions. The prayer asks for courage to be true to oneself, love and acceptance of neighbors, and justice...Source
There are times when we take our bodies for granted… abusing them with lengthy to-do lists of tasks that test the limits of our capacity. We go about our lives as if the “vessels” we have been given are unshakable, unbreakable, and without limits. How often to we thank others for the things they do...Source
Slowing down and connecting with God can be as simple as paying attention to the rhythm of our breath. Join host, Shannon McAdam, as she leads us through a spiritual practice known as a breath prayer. It’s not complicated unless you make it complicated. It’s personal. You set the parameters and make it your own....Source
What significance, if any, do ashes have in your life? Are they just the dirty remains left by a forgotten fire, or do they symbolize something meaningful? Throughout history and across cultures and traditions, ashes have had a number of symbolic uses. Join Blake Smith in this episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, as he...Source
February is a month that has been established as Black History Month. Wouldn’t it be great if we didn’t need a month dedicated to persons and voices that have not otherwise been acknowledged for their incredible contributions to our shared history? Join host Blake Smith for this time of meditation meant to focus our attention...Source
In this season of Epiphany, a time when we remember the revealing of God’s presence to all people in the person of Jesus Christ, we are encouraged to pause from the busyness of life and pay attention to how God is revealing God’s self to us each day. Robin Linkhart, host of this episode of...Source
In this episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, evangelist Cathy Batey is back with another guided meditation to ignite our imaginations, prompt our listening for the Divine, and prepare us for Advent and Christmas. Prepare to encounter Jesus as you wander through a snow-covered winter wonderland. Don’t worry, your imagination controls the temperature. Come expectantly,...Source
Do you ever have a minute to slow down and listen for what God might be wanting to say to you, or are your “conversations” a chance for you to do the talking? In this guided meditation, led by Spiritual Director, Cathy Batey, you’ll be encouraged to slow down, relax, journey, and listen. Use your...Source
Every day of our lives, we are writing our story. Sometimes the story comes out the way we plan it and sometimes it’s something altogether different. The thing is that we don’t write our story alone. It is added to by the people we encounter and with whom we journey. Some of those “co-writers” become...Source
So many things demand our attention, causing us to live our lives in a hurried pace ... rarely offering us a chance to catch our breath, much less pay attention to our breath and the toll stress takes on our bodies. There’s no better time than the present to pause and take care of yourself. So, why not join host and spiritual director, Tyler Marz, for a “spiritual coffee break.” In this episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, Tyler leads the listeners through the practice of Embodied Lectio Divina.Download Transcript
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Summertime comes with a vengeance this year across much of our world. Sustained high temperatures can have broad impact like damaging crops, illness or death for livestock, widespread power outages, and severe risk of wildfires. Several fires are blazing across the globe today. Sometimes our spiritual lives can feel scorched by heat, dried in the sun, or even singed by life’s occasional firestorm.
Today’s Welcoming Prayer, first recorded in the 2020 Pandemic, will help you get in touch with your interior state of being, then gently walk you through the three parts of the Welcoming Prayer as you awaken to God’s renewing presence in your life. Find a quiet place, or pop in your earbuds wherever you are, to simply breathe and listen.Download Transcript
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There is no shame in being thankful for one’s blessings, especially as they relate to one’s country of origin or residence.... as long as the gratitude is grounded in an understanding that God doesn’t favor any one nation over another. After all, God is God of all the nations. It’s important to remember that people everywhere are God’s children ... all of whom have common hopes and dreams. Join host Robin Linkhart for a spiritual practice of dwelling in a hymn that helps us to remember just that.
“This is My Song,” is number 389 in Community of Christ Sings.Words: Sts. 1–2 Lloyd Stone, 1912–1993, alt.; st. 3 Georgia Harkness, 1891–1974Download Transcript
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In 1964, Julie Andrews, playing the role of Mary Poppins sang the song “My Favorite Things.” In today’s episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, host and spiritual director Tyler Marz focuses the listener’s attention on wonderful things. Using Howard Thurman’s poem How Wonderful as a starting point, Tyler encourages us to celebrate the wonderful things found in life ... including our LGBTQIA+ family, friends, and community. What better way than this to kick off PRIDE month while listening for God’s call in your life? Download Transcript
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In this episode of "Awaken to God's Presence," host Blake Smith guides listeners through a spiritual practice in honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. The episode features a poem entitled "Communi-tea: Our Stories" by Prasanta Verma, which celebrates the diversity and unity within the Asian American community. It encourages solidarity, inclusion, and the recognition of the worth of all persons, in line with the principles of the Community of Christ. Listeners are invited to reflect on the experiences of those who have been marginalized and to consider ways to welcome them into a beloved community.Download Transcript
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This episode first aired on May 27, 2020.A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
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From its very beginning, Community of Christ has looked to continuing revelation for guidance and direction for the path ahead. And, we have not been disappointed. Surprised at times...yes. Disappointed … no. As those called to be a prophetic people, it is important for us to discern … to patiently listen to God’s leadings as we seek to fulfill Christ’s mission in the world. Join host Wendy Brian as she leads us in patient listening through the practice of centering prayer.Download Transcript
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We all have a calling. Some are called to serve in ordained ministry, but calling is so much more. Join host Wendy Brian as she leads listeners through a meditation intended to “Open Our Hearts” to see, hear, and know that to which God is calling us. Bring your creative imagination, and a willingness to sit in silence as you grow in relationship with the Divine.Download Transcript
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NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Unity in Diversity feels like an oxymoron. How can it be? How can we maintain our own uniqueness in the presence of those who think and believe and live differently than us? The key may just lie in finding a way to see the value in the other, separate and apart from the ways in which they are different from you. Join host Wendy Brian for a guided meditation in which she offers ways in which to do just that. Then... practice, practice, practice.Download Transcript
Thanks for listening to Project Zion Podcast!Follow us on Facebook and Instagram!Intro and Outro music used with permission:
“For Everyone Born,” Community of Christ Sings #285. Music © 2006 Brian Mann, admin. General Board of Global Ministries t/a GBGMusik, 458 Ponce de Leon Avenue, Atlanta, GA 30308. copyright@umcmission.org
“The Trees of the Field,” Community of Christ Sings # 645, Music © 1975 Stuart Dauerman, Lillenas Publishing Company (admin. Music Services).
All music for this episode was performed by Dr. Jan Kraybill, and produced by Chad Godfrey.
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Can you imagine what true peace would look like in your life? Would it be connected to a physical place or a quiet place in your soul? In this month’s episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, host Wendy Brian encourages us to join her in an imaginative meditation … creating for ourselves a “Shalom space” where we can find rest as well as joy, hope, love and peace … for ourselves and for the world. You won’t want to miss this time of reflection as we move into the quiet waiting time of Advent.Download Transcript
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NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
When we consider the deeper meaning of grace (beyond the prayer that one says before a meal), we cannot help but think of generosity. Grace is a gift from God offered without condition and without end. God’s generous gift of grace in our lives, in turn, evokes a deep sense of gratitude. In this episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, host Wendy Brian, leads us in a reflection of that abundant grace and the ways in which grace and generosity, interwoven with gratitude are the foundation for new relationships in our lives.Download Transcript
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With few exceptions, we all engage in several different communities as we travel through our daily lives. Community, after all, is simply a group of people with whom we share something in common (family, work environment, neighborhoods, church, etc.). Only we can say which of those communities are a blessing to us, and to which of those communities we seek to be a blessing. In today’s episode of “Awaken to God’s Presence,” host Wendy Brian takes us through a guided meditation on Community of Christ’s Mission Initiative, Blessings of Community. Through this time of silence and meditation, you’ll be encouraged to think about those communities in which you participate and how Blessings of Community is being fulfilled in your life.
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Like the Apostle Paul, we sometimes find ourselves doing the very things we hate, even though we know better. Making responsible choices can get sidelined by spontaneous responses to the world around us. It’s certainly easier to make responsible choices when we have time to think them through. In today’s episode of “Awaken to God’s Presence,” host Wendy Brian takes us through a guided meditation on Community of Christ’s Mission Initiative, Responsible Choices. Through this time of silence and meditation, you’ll find encouragement to learn from the past and take time in the present necessary to make choices less likely to result in regret. Download Transcript
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NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
What is your worth in your eyes? In the eyes of others? In God’s eyes? Community of Christ upholds nine Enduring Principles, one of which is the Worth of All Persons. You are included in that “all.” Join host Wendy Brian for a guided meditation that will help you listen for God’s call in your life. Find assurance that you are gifted, called, and chosen. You are of inestimable worth.Download Transcript
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Community of Christ counts "Sacredness of Creation” as one of its Enduring Principles. We often hear exclamations noting creation’s beauty and the ways in which our lives are touched by it. But how often do we take the time to really take it in... to acknowledge the elements of fire, air, water, and earth...and, to say thank you for all that it offers us. Join host Wendy Brian as she guides listeners in a meditation that honors the sacredness of creation and offers thanks for the unique gift of each of its elements.
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God loves all of God’s creation! ALL... No if, ands, or buts. Unfortunately, that is not always communicated and lived out in authentic, life-giving ways … especially to those In the 2SLGBTQIA+ community. For this episode of Awaken to God’s Presence, and in recognition of Pride Month, host Robin Linkhart, leads listeners through a guided meditation based on the Progress Pride Flag and its rainbow of colors. Regardless of your gender identity or sexual orientation, this meditation encourages you to cherish your authentic self, and know that you are deeply loved by God.
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Pride Prayer written by Jordan Sullivan United Church of Canada Use granted under the Creative Common License (united-church.ca) https://united-church.ca/copyright
NOTE: The series that make up the Project Zion Podcast explore the unique spiritual and theological gifts Community of Christ offers for today's world. Although Project Zion Podcast is a Ministry of Community of Christ. The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those speaking and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Community of Christ.
Gardens can be places of beauty and awe. Gardens of all types are places where new life springs forth, and where hope is realized. We are the gardens in which God plants seeds in preparation for what is to come. We are patches of soil that need preparing, and tending so that God’s dream can come alive in us. Join Community of Christ minister, Robin LInkhart, for a time of spiritual reflection using the metaphor of seeds and planting. Consider what God is waiting and wanting to plant in you.
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Take some time to journey with host, Tyler Marz, on a “Dwelling” adventure to the place where many will soon gather for World Conference. Place yourself in the seats where hymns have been sung, legislation has been considered, inspired words have been shared, and lives have been encouraged to carry on the mission of Jesus Christ. Rest there for a few minutes as you contemplate your hopes and dreams for the church. Leave ready to “live, love and share as Zion.”
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Have you ever stopped to consider the magnitude of the stars? In this episode of Awaken to God’s presence, Presiding Evangelist Jane Gardner helps listeners reflect on the condition of their hearts... considering what is written there. Journey with Jane in reflection and confession through the spiritual practice of Body Prayer, and find healing and strength for the Lenten journey.
HOST:Joelle Wight
GUEST:Jane Gardner
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Could you use some quiet in your life? A little more time to be with God? Join Tyler Marz as he introduces and leads the practice of Centering Prayer. All you need is ten minutes, and it will be time well spent.
HOST: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through a Jesuit prayer to start us off in 2023!
Host: Tyler Marz
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Advent is a time for intentional waiting. Join Tyler Marz as he takes us through a meditative practice based on the hymn “God Almighty, We Are Waiting”, from Community of Christ Sings #397.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through a guided meditation that invites us to pause, be grateful, and have a posture of thanksgiving.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through a guided meditation for the upcoming autumn months.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through a Lectio Divina based on Doctrine and Covenants 162:8a. As part of a prophetic community, we invite you to meditate on these words and think about the power resident in your own sacred story.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz invites you into this meditation reflecting on the ebb and flow of life. Sit back, relax, and think about what is tides in your life and what you are learning from them.
Host: Tyler Marz
Minister Tyler Marz invites you into this meditation from Micah 6. Sit back, relax, and think about what it means to do justice, love kindness, and walk humbly before God.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz invites you into this meditation for Pride month. Sit back, relax, and think about how God is calling you to support the LGBTQIA+ community.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through a meditation on nonviolence. As Community of Christ journeys together toward Jesus, the peaceful One. We hope you use this meditation to reflect on how God is calling you to participate in the work of nonviolence.
Host: Tyler Marz
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Minister Tyler Marz takes us through the spiritual practice of walking the neighborhood. Through this intentional practice, we can feel God's presence and love no matter where we are.
Host: Tyler Marz
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A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.
Download Transcript
A gift of peace in the midst of troubling times. Guided practices to help you connect with the Divine no matter where you are or what’s going on around you.
Featuring a new practice every Wednesday led by Katie Harmon-McLaughlin, Community of Christ Spiritual Formation Ministries.