I have posted before about ‘soul space’ the monthly worship event at St Cuthbert’s.
As I explained in that
previous post, the aim of ‘soul space’ (which was formerly ‘Sanctuary in the
City’ which in turn had evolved from the earlier ‘Reflective Services’) is to
provide a place and time for engaging with God, prayer, Scripture, the Holy
Spirit, peace etc at your own pace and in your own way, in silence (although
there are occasional short spoken reflections and often quiet music playing).
I happen to think that ‘soul
space’ is one of the most important things that St Cuthbert’s offers in terms
of our worship provision! (and before some folks get offended by that, let me
say that I very deeply appreciate our musically and liturgically rich Sunday worship
and our important and intimate Healing Services!) But there is something distinctive
and significant about ‘soul space’.
But let me be honest; ‘soul
space’ is not well attended or supported. There are a few who come from the
congregation (including those who are members of the planning team). There is a
handful from the places of work around our doors. A few occasionally come from other
city centre churches. And we even have one or two who travel from beyond Edinburgh
to be with us. But the numbers are small.
It remains a mystery to me
why more people do not come, why those who come once and express appreciation of
it do not return, why the undoubted enthusiasm of those who attend does not
attract more. But that is how it is.
And perhaps that is ok. Perhaps
we are simply a mustard seed... a small thing that can have a much bigger
effect and influence than the initial size would lead us to expect.
And that is where I am
encouraged!
Over the years we have
influenced others from throughout Scotland (and beyond!) to use our material or
to begin their own alternative/creative /reflective style of worship. Just
recently a Christian ministry in London sought our permission to use some of
our ‘soul space’ resources and reflections in their own materials and settings.
On Wednesday past members from a congregation in Fife came along to ‘soul space’
with a view to considering doing something along similar lines in their own
setting. And in the past we have
encouraged congregations elsewhere in Scotland to ‘do their own thing’.
I am encouraged by all of
that as well as by the assurance that ‘soul space’ will continue with a
marvellous and creative team beyond my leaving. (as indeed its predecessors in
St Cuthbert’s were established long before I arrived here).
But I do remain mystified as
to why – in our frantic and frazzled world, crying out for places of peace and
stillness – so few attend.
[check out http://www.st-cuthberts.net/soulspace.php]
[check out http://www.st-cuthberts.net/soulspace.php]
