Sacred Rhythms Participant's Guide: Spiritual Practices that Nourish Your Soul and Transform Your Life

by Ruth Haley Barton

Drawing on the imagery of the natural rhythms of the created order, Sacred Rhythms explores the practices that spiritual seekers and growing disciples have used throughout history to grow closer to God. In a similar way, the disciplines of the spiritual life are the basic components of the rhythm of intimacy that feeds the soul, keeping Christians open and available to God's surprising initiative in their lives. In this six session participant's guide, designed for use with the Sacred Rhythms DVD study, Ruth Haley Barton provides guidance for you and your group in a way that links the disciplines of the Christian faith to the most compelling desires of the human soul. Each of the following sessions offers specific practices that allow you to experience each discipline and incorporate it into your life. Sacred Rhythms session titles include: 1. Longing for More2. Creating Space for God3. Engaging the Scriptures 4. Flesh and Blood Spirituality 5. Bringing My Whole Self to God6. A Rule of Life

Genres: Christian, Nonfiction, Spirituality

96 pages, Paperback

First published December 23, 2010

About the author

Ruth Haley Barton (Doctor of Divinity, Northern Seminary) is founding president/CEO of the Transforming Center, a ministry dedicated to strengthening the souls of pastors and Christian leaders, and the congregations and organizations they serve. For over twenty years, she has ministered to the soul care needs of pastors and leaders based upon her conviction that the best thing we bring to leadership is our own transforming selves. Trained at the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation and the Institute for Pastoral Studies Loyola University Chicago, Ruth is a seasoned retreat leader and spiritual director. A sought-after speaker and preacher, she has served on the pastoral staff of several churches and teaches frequently at seminaries and graduate schools. Ruth is the author of numerous books and resources on the spiritual life, including Invitation to Solitude and Silence, Sacred Rhythms, Longing for More, Pursuing God's Will Together, and Life Together in Christ. She continues to share her thoughts and perspectives on soulful leadership through an online resource called eReflections as well as a podcast entitled Strengthening the Soul of Your Leadership.

Reviews

[Jonny Grubbs · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ruth Haley Barton's "Sacred Rhythms" is more than just a book about spiritual disciplines; it's a passionate invitation to a deeper, more authentic Christian life. Barton doesn't present herself as a paragon of virtue, but rather as a fellow traveler on the spiritual journey.

What makes this book so compelling is Barton's honest and vulnerable approach. She candidly shares her own struggles and shortcomings in embracing each spiritual practice, making it easier for readers to relate and understand the challenges they may face. By acknowledging her own imperfections, she creates a safe space for readers to admit their own struggles and find encouragement to persevere.

More than just a theoretical framework, "Sacred Rhythms" provides practical guidance and concrete examples of how to incorporate spiritual disciplines into everyday life. From centering prayer to Sabbath observance, Barton offers clear and accessible explanations, making these practices feel less daunting and more approachable.

The impact of "Sacred Rhythms" is profound. It reignited my desire to move beyond simply being a Christian in name only and to truly live out my faith in a meaningful way. The book has inspired me to prioritize spiritual practices in my own life and to cultivate a deeper relationship with God.

I highly recommend "Sacred Rhythms" to anyone seeking to deepen their faith journey. It's a powerful and inspiring guide that will resonate with both seasoned Christians and those just beginning their spiritual exploration.

[Joi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the book and watched the DVD as part of a small fellowship group at my church. I loved how she broke things down and then allowed time for discussion and practice. I loved it and will be reading it again with another group 😀

[Adam · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great book that everyone should probably read at least once in their life. It's a challenge but it's a well worth read.

[Atresa Farmer · Rating 5 out of 5]

LOVED!!!!