RESONATE: A city-based walking prayer & poetry exercise

RESONATE: A city-based walking prayer & poetry exercise
Saturday March 13, 2010 10 a.m.-6 P.M.
$25-$55 Sliding Scale (includes facilitation, materials & evening meal)

We are transformed when we risk crossing boundaries of comfort and predictability. Cities like San Francisco are a microcosm of diversity and the global cultures that reflect the beauty and shadows of our humanity.  How can we resonate with the heart of God and God’s kingdom dream as we open ourselves to the wonder and brokenness revealed in city streets? 

RESONATE is an all-day interactive learning experience designed to help participants wrestle with scripture, reflect on identity, cross boundaries of class & culture and pray for eyes of hope and compassion. The exercise begins with a dialogue about the theology of cities, streams of emerging culture evident throughout San Francisco’s history and some instructions on ways to pray for a city. Participants will then go on adventures through several historic San Francisco neighborhoods-- tasting new foods, meeting new people and experiencing a variety of cultures-- all with an intent to see as God sees and resonate with the Creator’s heart. The day concludes with an ethnic meal and sharing of group made poetic prayers. 

SKILLS WE WILL BE PRACTICING:   

1. Prayer — according to patterns in Scripture.
Listening & Seeing— opening ourselves up to people, asking questions, and hearing their stories.
Creativity — by making your own intercessory poetry, drawings or photographs.
4. Walking — connecting physical exercise with spiritual practice.(participants will walk 4-6 miles at a leisurely pace)
5. Companionship — we will be doing this day together as companion followers of Jesus.

GOALS OF THE EXERCISE:

•     To practice prayers of ancient scripture.
•     To gain exposure to a diversity of cultures and people groups.
•     To practice God's heart for all people.
•     To cross cultural and social boundaries
•     To integrate spirituality and creativity.

TIPS:

• Wear comfortable shoes for walking 4-6 miles.
• Dress in a way that helps you blend into an urban environment. (Some ideas: wear dark colors, a hat or scarf and avoid clothing with written slogans or team names)
• Bring $5-$7 for a snack lunch along the walk.
• Other things you may want to pack:  bag or backpack, pen and notebook, a bottle of water, a few healthy snacks to give to a homeless person who asks for food, and a light jacket in case the weather changes.
• We strongly urge the use of public transportation. Most free parking in the city has a 2 hour limit except for permitted residents. If you take BART the closest station is 16th St./Mission. Limited parking is available. Our Day will conclude near the Powell Street Station.
• Bring a friend