Regardless of your religious beliefs or life experiences, Austin Congregational United Church of Christ has a place for you.

The church has established a space in its building designed for people of all spiritual beliefs to gather, share and explore.  The space will offer retreats and speakers, a monthly drumming circle, meditation, yoga classes and book studies. The church also has an outdoor labyrinth.

“I embrace the theology that the path of life brings us back and forth, yet ends in a center of peace and compassion,” said the Rev. Shari Mason, pastor. “A center that has no boundaries, a center that is for all.”

Anywhere from 15 to 40 people attend a Saturday meditation group there.  Participants take turns leading the group each week.

“Every week, I take away spiritual truths and insights from 20 or more people and it strengthens my faith and creates a strong spiritual community where everyone has a voice and story that is respected and validated,” said Kyle Keenan, a regular meditation group participant. “It is a great way to further spiritual growth in a less formal atmosphere, and we also are able to study topics from a vast array of traditions.

“It is very inclusive and welcoming which creates a strong spiritual community.  Many in the community also belong to other religious groups or churches, and it adds complexity and depth to our existing faith.”

In 2016, the meditation group added an outdoor labyrinth, located on the southwest corner of the church grounds.  Labyrinths can be used for walking meditation or just general movement while in contemplation.  Landscaping, seating, and a sign were added to the labyrinth in 2017.

The labyrinth was created as a gift to the Austin community and is open for use by anyone at anytime.  It is a visible reminder that there is time to slow down and give space for the sacred to guide.

As you enter the labyrinth you are greeted by the words: “All are welcome. May those who walk this labyrinth find peace and happiness; be healed according to their needs; and have their hearts filled with unconditional love. All that is really required in walking this sacred path is to show up, place one foot in front of the other and breathe.”

Free yoga classes are offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays for all levels of ability.  A silent sit designed to allow for meditation or quiet reflection is held after yoga classes.

Speakers regularly present on topics such as tai chi, meditation styles, mindfulness, setting intentions, and other topics of spiritual interest.  Past speakers include Ann Drew Yu, on setting intentions, and Deb Adele, author of “The Yamas and Niyamas: Exploring the Ethical Practice of Yoga”.

Kirsten Shipler, a regular attendee of the events at the church said these activities “help me to connect, in so many ways, with something bigger than myself.  Whenever I attend meditation, yoga, drumming circle, retreats, or walk the outdoor labyrinth … it’s a place where I am encouraged to exhale and just be.  It’s life-giving to be around a welcoming community of people who value connection, compassion, growth and generosity.”

Upcoming events

These are events taking place at Austin Congregational UCC, 1910 3rd Ave. NW, Austin. All are welcome

Pam Urich will speak at 10 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 21. She will lead a guided meditation to promote healing and relaxation and then teach a Quigong empowerment and healing techniques.

Saturday morning meditation:
9:30 a.m. coffee
and social time,
10 a.m. meditation

Yoga classes: Tuesdays and Thursdays, gentle chair yoga at 4:15 p.m., slow flow yoga at 5:30 p.m.

Drumming circle: fourth Friday of the Month at 6:30 p.m.  Drums and other instruments are available for all to use.  All ages welcome.

Silent Sit (a time for meditation and silent reflection): Tuesdays and Thursdays 6:30-7 p.m.
Website: www.austincongoucc.org/.