Sacred Circles

Focus Statement

In the sacred circles we create,


we become living bridges between heaven and earth,


inviting others to experience God’s transformative presence


in the ordinary moments of our shared journey.

Point of Relation

Friends, let’s revisit Ireland and St. Patrick,

whose return to Ireland wasn’t just about preaching; it was about building communities.

He established churches and monasteries

that became centers of learning, prayer, and evangelism.

These sacred circles, much like the early church in Jerusalem,

were places where heaven touched earth.

Patrick’s approach was revolutionary,

baptizing thousands and ordaining local priests.

His vision laid the groundwork for future missionaries,

creating a network of faith that would spread across Europe.

Patrick’s work shows us the power of creating sacred spaces

where people can encounter God’s presence in community.

Things to Consider

As we journey through Lent, reflect on the sacred circles in your life.

How do our church gatherings create spaces where heaven and earth meet?

In a previous church, I started “Theology on Tap” at a local brewery.

I actually carried it on even after I personally stopped drinking.

The owners were accommodating of us and of those who did not drink,

making it as inclusive as could be.

This ministry ended up attracting customers to the conversation.

Now, I am not saying this would work in our context, per se,

but it shows how out of the box God is willing to work if we open ourselves up to it.

What unconventional sacred circles might God be calling us to create?

What Scripture Says

As we journey along the Pilgrim’s Path, we encounter a profound milestone:

Sacred Circles, where heaven and earth intertwine.

These gatherings form the heart of our faith journey,

echoing the vibrant communities of early Christianity.

In Acts, we glimpse these divine assemblies:

“All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching,

and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper),

and to prayer” (Acts 2:42).

These weren’t mere social clubs,

but places where “a deep sense of awe came over them all” (Acts 2:43),

and where the presence of God was palpable.

The apostle Paul expands this vision, likening the church to a body:

“The human body has many parts, but the many parts make up one whole body.

So it is with the body of Christ” (1 Corinthians 12:12).

In this sacred circle, each member plays a vital role,

regardless of perceived importance.

Paul emphasizes,

“In fact, some parts of the body that seem weakest

and least important are actually the most necessary” (1 Corinthians 12:22).

This diversity creates a beautiful harmony where

“all the members care for each other” (1 Corinthians 12:25).

These sacred circles became thin places

where believers experienced Christ’s living presence,

embodying his love and grace in tangible ways.

As they shared everything and cared for each other, their community flourished.

Acts tells us, “They worshiped together at the Temple each day,

met in homes for the Lord’s Supper,

and shared their meals with great joy and generosity” (Acts 2:46).

This joyful fellowship had a magnetic effect,

as “the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved” (Acts 2:47).

Through these sacred circles,

the early Christians created spaces where the divine broke through,

transforming lives and expanding the reach of God’s love.

What This Means for You

My friends, this week,

seek to create sacred circles in your daily life.

Look for opportunities to foster community in your neighborhood, workplace, or church.

Each interaction is a chance to create a thin place where God’s presence is felt.

Start small - invite a neighbor for coffee or join a church group.

WORD OF MOUTH IS STILL THE BEST FORM OF PROMOTION

Also, remember, you have the power to make any gathering sacred.

Be intentional about bringing Christ’s love into your interactions,

transforming ordinary moments into divine encounters.

What This Means for Us

As a church family,

we’re called to be a collective sacred circle,

a thin place where others encounter God.

Our worship services,

One Starry Night,

community dinners,

Esther’s Circle,

and Knitting Group

are all modern examples of these grace-filled gatherings.

But let’s not limit ourselves.

This Lent, let’s explore new ways to create sacred circles in our community.

Where might God be calling us to establish unexpected gatherings of grace?

Together, we can build a network of divine encounters,

continuing the legacy of Patrick and our spiritual ancestors.

Written by Rev. Todd R. Lattig with the assistance of Perplexity AI.