Living Well Ministries -- Chicago & Beyond

Living Well Together in 2012!

2011-12-23T09:10:00.000-08:00

Welcome, dear fellow travelers. Check out the new website, blog and store of Living Well Ministries at our new site. Click here.

Happy Holidays and Best Wishes in 2012!

LOVE FROM THE CENTER OF WHO YOU ARE! -- Romans 12:9a (The Message)

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CHART YOUR COMING OUT COURSE
live into loving expression of your values as you share your life

FORM NEW FAITH
embrace what gives life... set aside what holds you back

FORGIVE FOR LIFE
accept the truth with growing compassion and freedom

LEAD WITH LOVE
nurture energy for creative and committed leadership

BALANCE TRUE COMMITMENTS
make space to sustain your giving with authentic generosity

TRAVEL TOGETHER WITH NEW ENERGY
recover the joy and hope rooted in your organization's mission

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ABUNDANT SUPPORT AS YOU LIVE WELL!

All programs are designed to honor and affirm people of all

sexual orientations, gender identities and faith backgrounds.

SPIRITUAL LIFE COACHING

for individuals, non-profits and committees
(appointments in-person or by phone)

LOCAL AND TELECLASS EVENTS:

TUESDAYS: Teleclasses and Local Living Well Spirituality Group

THURSDAYS: Luncheons and Teleclasses

FRIDAYS: Seniors' Bible Study (Closed group, meets in Uptown)

SATURDAYS: Monthly Workshops and Retreats

SUNDAYS: No regular programs. Email Sabbath.

RETREAT, EDUCATION & PULPIT SUPPLY

CEREMONIES

BLOG "COLLAGES FROM THE CENTER"

Contact Rev. Jacki Belile at jacki@livingwellministries.net or 773.655.4357 for more information. Scroll further for detailed program descriptions and more information about Living Well Ministries and Rev. Belile.

UPCOMING EVENTS -- Scroll Further for More Details

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WEEKLY PROGRAMS ARE ON BREAK FOR SUMMER. Check back here soon for Fall 2011 schedule of teleclasses and events in Chicago.

ON THE ROAD

Partnerships for Emergency Preparedness: Building Faith Communities' Capacity to Partner with Public Health Leaders in suburban Cook County. Project Consultant. May-July 2011.

Prayerful Living: Ministers Practicing the Serenity Prayer Together (Closed Group).

Blessings Beyond the Pulpit: Covenant Group for those in Specialized Ministries (Closed Group)

A Living Sacrifice: Biblical Principles for "Self" Care. Community Church of Barrington, September 2011. (Closed Group)

A Living Sacrifice: Eating with SOUL. FEASTIVAL event sponsored by The Center for Faith and Community Health Transformation. October 10. Visit www.chicagofaithandhealth.org for more information.

Pulpit Supply: St. James Presbyterian Church and Community Church of Wilmette. Summer/Fall.

<>Unless otherwise noted, all events are at St. James Presbyterian Church, 6554 N. Rockwell Street, Chicago. Programs are the sole responsibility of Living Well Ministries.

Event Registration Instructions

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To register for any local event publicized here, contact jacki@livingwellministries.net for a Paypal invoice or send the following information and a check payable to:

Living Well Ministries
6554 N. Rockwell Street
Chicago, IL 60645

Include a print-out of this brief registration form:
_______________________________________________
Name:

Street Address:

City/State/Zip:

Phone/Email:

Religious Background/Community (if applicable):

Name of Event:

Where Did You Hear About This Event?

________________________________________________

Jacki's Bio

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Rev. Jacki Belile, CEC, ELI-MP

Rev. Jacki Belile, the founder of Living Well Ministries (LWM), is an ordained American Baptist minister and certified empowerment coach. Jacki is committed to serving individuals and groups who seek to live in greater spiritual, physical and/or organizational vitality. She grew up in a fundamentalist church in North Dakota, attended evangelical Taylor University in Indiana, and moved to Chicago with her life partner in 1990. Jacki holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Social Work (from Taylor) and a Master of Divinity degree from Chicago Theological Seminary. She received certification as a life coach from the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching and is a member of the International Coach Federation.

Jacki has previously worked in the fields of health ministry and interfaith dialogue. Since 2000, she has led retreats and seminars on topics including befriending the Bible, forgiveness, balanced living, stress management and spiritual disciplines.

The first "out" member of the LGBT communities approved for ordination in the American Baptist Churches-USA, Jacki has previously served as pastor of two welcoming and affirming congregations: Phoenix Community Church (Kalamazoo, MI) and Grace Baptist Church (Chicago). Through the ministry of LWM, she enjoys serving as guest preacher, retreat leader and teacher in a wide variety of ecumenical settings.

A child of the Welcoming Churches Movement, Jacki has volunteered in numerous ecumenical efforts toward a more inclusive church for LGBT people and their allies. She was the national committee chair of the first ecumenical gathering of welcoming churches, WOW 2000, in DeKalb, Illinois in 2000. Jacki has served as the Communications Chair of the Holy Relationships National Steering Committee; as a member of the national training team of the Institute for Welcoming Resources; and as a member of the Out in Scripture editorial advisory board, an on-line lectionary-based resource for clergy and laity created by the Human Rights Campaign Religion and Faith Program.

Jacki's hobbies include reading, cooking and improving her music and art literacy. She’s been a yoga student for nine years.

Befriending the Bible Retreat Curriculum - Publication Pending

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Rev. Belile has developed a unique approach to reading the Scripture with CARE. Since 2001, she has led workshops and retreats on this material, which will be edited for publication in 2010. Watch for details here. For more information, contact Jacki at 773.655.4357 or jacki@livingwellministries.net.

The Heart of the Matter: A Workshop for Families and Friends of LGBT People

2011-07-11T07:30:00.000-07:00

Watch for more information about this workshop available September 2011.

Ceremonies for LIVING WELL

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VISION

Living Well Ministries (LWM) supports people who wish to name with intention a threshold, transition or commitment with a public ritual. Some examples of ceremonies include:

Weddings/Holy Unions
Funerals/Memorial Services
House Blessings
Relationship Transitions

With respect and appreciation, I serve people of all gender identities, sexual orientations and family styles in making such public commitments. Together, we will craft a ceremony of intention unique to your situation and expressed values. “Public” means a gathering of your loved ones, however large or small.

My faith convictions and ordination vows combine in a radically inclusive commitment to support lives of faith, intention and service. In creating a ceremony with you, I represent the One who has called us all into abundant life, the fruits of the Spirit, and life-giving community. If you seek a minister who will support you in expressing not only your love, but your reliance on community and your desire to bless this world through your shared lives, then we may be a good match. And about your spirituality… as a Baptist minister committed to interreligious respect, I find much joy in the creative partnership that emerges when diversity calls!

RATES *

Weddings/Holy Unions: $700.00
Funerals/Memorial Services: $400.00
House Blessings: $250.00
Relationship Transitions: $700.00

POLICIES

Weddings/Holy Unions:

Preparation: Five 60-minute planning sessions, spanning a minimum of two months before your ceremony, are required. We will use this time to explore the unique joys, lessons and challenges of your relationship and to plan the ceremony. These sessions will include a combination of 1-1 sessions, relationship sessions, and homework for your private reflection and conversation.

Honorarium: Rate includes planning sessions, liturgy planning, and attendance of rehearsal and ceremony. My services do not include building or musician arrangements or preparation of written programs. (Referrals for musicians and ceremony sites are available.) Payment installments at each session are preferred. Final payment is due one week prior to the ceremony. *

Funerals/Memorial Services: See upcoming post.
House Blessings: See upcoming post.
Relationship Transitions: See upcoming post.

*Additional fees may be negotiated if the scope of my services exceeds customary time allotted.

Financial Wellness: Tips for Abundance Actions

2011-07-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

WATCH FOR DETAILS ON REPEAT OFFERS OF THIS UNIQUE PROGRAM. 6554 N. Rockwell Street, Chicago. Cost: $40 (includes light lunch).

Do you want to move from worry to wellness in your financial life? Are you tired of extreme messages that overwhelm you with unachievable burdens or glib advice? Give yourself the gift of this unique day, a gathering to:

NAME INFLUENCES ON OUR GOALS AND BELIEFS ABOUT MONEY
EXPLORE CURRENT BELIEFS THAT LIMIT CREATIVITY AND SABOTAGE DISCIPLINE
BRAINSTORM PRACTICAL, ACHIEVABLE ACTIONS THAT WILL MAKE A DIFFERENCE
RECEIVE SUPPORT FOR YOUR UNIQUE NEXT STEPS

Attendees will gain resources for the heart, mind and pocketbook through this unique combination of presentation, discussion, and meditation and follow-up recommendations.

Co-sponsored by Living Well Ministries and the Law Office of Kelli Dudley

PRESENTERS

Kelli Dudley is a lawyer who assists people to change their minds about debt. She defends people who are pursued by creditors, mortgage companies, and landlords. She helps them to negotiate when they truly owe money, and assists them to defend themselves when they are unjustly harassed. Kelli teaches Housing Law at the DePaul University College of Law and teaches in several paralegal and college programs. Her passion is helping people understand money and material resources as tools that can help them attain their true purpose. Founder of Living Well Ministries, Jacki Belile is an ordained American Baptist minister and spiritual life coach. She has previously served as pastor of two congregations and worked in the fields of health ministry and interfaith dialogue. Since 2000, she has led retreats and seminars on topics including stress management, spirituality of stewardship, befriending the Bible, and forgiveness. In addition to her local and long-distant individual coaching practice, she is available for “committee coaching” for churches and non-profits.

Retreat "Packages" Available for Your Group

2011-07-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

EXAMPLES OF RETREATS & SEMINARS
--available for your organization--

Prayerful Living (Practicing the Serenity Prayer)
Reimagining Forgiveness
A Spirituality of Self-Care
Church Growth: Vitality, Visibility, Vision
Faith vs. Dogma
Befriending the Bible
Coming Out with Integrity & Creativity
Developing Spiritual Practices
Bible Study Immersion Days
Discerning Gifts & Choices
Excellence vs. Perfection
Interfaith Literacy and Dialogue
Journeys of Justice (Heart-Centered Activism)
The Spiritual Power of Simplicity
Wellsprings of Wisdom (seniors’ programming)

BROWSE FURTHER FOR JACKI'S BIO, PAST PROGRAMS ETC.

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Browse the next pages "older posts" for previous LWM programs, as well as my bio and previous communities served.

Retreat Leadership - My Past Experience

2011-01-06T12:00:00.001-08:00

I'm Shaped by 20 Years of Retreat Habits
Rev. Jacki Belile
www.livingwellministries.net

I hope this will give you a sense of the ways spiritual retreats have shaped me over the last twenty years.

TOPICAL RETREATS (2000-present)
Gatherings as individuals -- either unaffiliated or from one or more church -- to explore a common theme

A Few Examples of Topics I’ve Led (vs. attended) for eleven faith communities since 2000:

A Flourishing Life: Living the Serenity Prayer
Finding Our Wisdom: A Retreat for Older Adults
Savoring Spring: A Church Visioning Retreat
Befriending the Bible: A Retreat for LGBT Christians Seeking Peace w/ God
Forgiveness: Freedom for a Flourishing Life
Prayerful Living: Beyond Stress Management
The Spiritual Power of Simplicity
Prayerful Living: The Freedom in Spiritual Disciplines
God’s Dream: Cultivating Christian Community
A New Way for a New Day: Excellence vs. Perfectionism
Our Story Too: LGBT Christians Reclaim the Bible
The Gift of YOU: A New Approach to Spiritual Gifts
Faith Beyond Resentment (worship leadership @ retreat based on this book)

PERSONAL RENEWAL RETREATS (2000-present)
Regular unstructured, individual retreat time (beginning in my first pastorate, where I retreated 3-4 times/year for approximately a week)

LOCAL CHURCH RETREATS (1990-2006)
A tradition of annual Grace Baptist Church retreats, attended as an active lay member and then pastor

RETREATS WITH COLLEAGUES (1990 – present)
Sacred time set aside to rest, play and study with fellow seminarians, fellow ministers, parish nurse colleagues, and interfaith dialogue advocates

ORIENTATION RETREATS (1986, 1996)
Sacred time set aside to get students off to an intentional and well-supported start to their new lives

DISCIPLESHIP COORDINATORS' RETREATS (1988-9)
Refreshing time away from college classes for intense Bible study and training as a Discipleship Coordinators (a network of small groups for prayer, fellowship and Bible study at Taylor University)

The habit of retreat-taking is central to my Christian life. They renew, restore and reorient me for the sake of Gospel (repentance for the sake of abundant life).

I’d be honored to serve you on your own journey of Living Well in an upcoming retreat experience, whether it is inspired by the above topics or something else you imagine. Contact me at 773.655.4357 or jacki@livingwellministries.net for more info on my previous experience. Watch for more information about LWM’s upcoming retreat schedule, including one-day Bible Study retreats.

Retreat Leadership - Jacki's Style/Passions

2011-01-06T12:00:00.000-08:00

PASSIONS?

Yes, passions!

I’m a frequent attendee and leader of retreats, from three-hour “minis” to week-long immersions.

For twenty years I have experienced a deepening appreciation, personal use and increased leadership of retreats for people of faith. “Passion” describes my strong, heart-felt conviction that we all need some version of a regular retreat. Perhaps it’s always been that way. Perhaps retreats are the remedy for a particularly imbalanced society and church. Perhaps (probably!) our biblical heritage of Sabbath-keeping is one way to understand the gift of retreat.

Beyond the literal ancient observance of Sabbath lie many other biblical principles that convict me of our common need. The psalmist hears God invite us to “Be still, and know that I am God.” Following Christ’s resurrection, the disciples uprooted by grief and disorienting joy abide together in Jerusalem, awaiting together the plans and power of God. The epistle writers urge in many varying ways that we not forsake “assembling together.” Time and time again, I’ve seen renewal happen in the special retreat time, a renewal that sadly doesn’t always occur in the day-to-day “operations” of being disciples, of being church.

So, I’m passionate about the spiritual discipline of retreats. They have an ability to restore and reorient us to God’s work -- work that may be in, through or despite us. What that time away looks like will surely vary from person to person, organization to organization, and season to season. The point is an intentional rhythm of consecration, an intentional habit of setting time aside to be uniquely receptive to God and one another.

These are the gifts I appreciate so much about retreats; consider them a glimpse into my leadership style and priorities. These will be present in some measure, tailored in unique combinations, in any vibrant retreat.

Slowing Down – The Gift to sleep a little later, move a little slower, and stop ‘working’ long before bedtime…

Stillness -- The Gift to ponder without producing, whether in nature’s beauty, around the fireplace or in prayer/meditation…

Play – The Gift to enjoy recreation (re-creation!) and leisure, whether alone or with those sacred souls with whom we’re so often working hard…

Creativity – The Gift to access our intuitive, opening side, whether in arts, music, cooking, movement (or even brainstorming!)…

Fellowship – The Gift to deepen intimacy in a setting that is sensitive to varying needs and styles of relationship-building…

Discernment – The Gift to listen alone or together, to name patterns and accept truths, to identify landmarks and Spirit’s call…

Commitments – The Gift to name response to emerging Truth, to set forth in language of heart and mind the fruits of retreat’s reflection…

Worship – The Gift to proclaim God’s empowering faithfulness amid the valleys and heights of our journey, and the Gift of attending to one another as the Body of Christ…

I believe the Christian gospel to be invitation to the abundant life of Jesus Christ. For this, I believe the Biblical patterns of journey, sabbath, discernment, surrender, solitude and community to be timeless. A “Living Well,” you might say.

Wherever you are on your personal journey of spiritual growth, I pray this stirs your own reflection on current habits and/or needs for retreat! Perhaps we’ll meet at a LWM-sponsored retreat, or at a retreat for your church or organization. Perhaps in our coaching session, I’ll support your exploration of a renewing retreat experience.

Wherever it is, here’s to the abundant life Jesus promised, here’s to “Living Well,” together.

Past Pulpit, Retreat, Education Supply or Consulting

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A hearty thanks to each of these communities for my opportunity to serve in some way -- "big" or "small" -- since 1995. Each of these encounters have shaped me and the trajectory of this current ministry.

Phoenix Community Church (Kalamazoo, MI)
Grace Baptist Church (Chicago)
Community Church of Wilmette (IL)
Chicago Theological Seminary
Community Church of Barrington (IL)
Companis (Seattle, WA)
Ebenezer Lutheran Church (Chicago)
Epiphany United Church of Christ (Chicago)
The Association of Welcoming & Affirming Baptists
Irving Park Baptist Church (Chicago)
Concordia Lutheran Church (Chicago)
Lake Street Church (Evanston, IL)
St. Benedict Catholic Church (Chicago)
Lakeview Presbyterian Church (Chicago)
Immanuel Lutheran Church (Chicago)
Elmhurst College (Elmhurst, IL)
North Park Theological Seminary (Chicago)
Light of Christ Lutheran Church (Chicago)
Uptown Ministries (Chicago)
The Leaven Center (Lyons, MI)
The South Church (Mt. Prospect, IL)
Community Baptist Church (Warrenville, IL)
St. James Presbyterian Church (Chicago)
Ravenswood United Church of Christ (Chicago)
Parish Nurses Program, Advocate Health Care (IL)
Morgan Park Baptist Church (Chicago)
Church of Jesus Christ, Reconciler (Chicago

Living Well Ministries' Affiliations

2011-01-06T07:00:00.000-08:00

Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists

Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America

Chicago Faith and Health Forum

Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches

Center for Progressive Christianity

Network of Spiritual Progressives

PENDING ASSOCIATIONS

Health Ministries Association

OTHER RELATIONSHIPS *

American Baptist Churches of Metro Chicago

American Baptist Churches - USA

Ministers Council, ABC-USA

Lake Street Church of Evanston

St. James Presbyterian Church

Edgewater Community Religious Association (no website)

* These represent significant personal and/or professional relationships; programs of LWM are not affiliated with these organizations. Through my membership in the regional and national Ministers Council of the American Baptist Churches -USA, I remain actively connected and committed to the collective mission of my denominational family. I am a member of Lake Street Church in Evanston, an American Baptist congregation which is a "progressive community in the Protestant tradition." I have great respect for my neighborhood ministerial assocation (ECRA) and appreciate the fellowship and shared mission of this vibrant interreligious community of colleagues. I am especially appreciative of St. James Presbyterian Church in West Rogers Park, the home of LWM in this inaugural year of programming.

LWM Activity Report: July 2007- December 2009

2011-01-06T06:30:00.000-08:00

LIVING WELL MINISTRIES
ACTIVITY REPORT
DECEMBER 2009

This "at-a-glance" report shares a glimpse of the program priorities to date... including partnership and rest opportunities!

Summer 2007

Sabbatical Rest

Pulpit Supply:
Morgan Park Baptist Church
Community Baptist Church, Warrenville
St. James Presbyterian Church
Church of Jesus Christ, Reconciler

Fall 2007

Office Establishment/Administrative Development

Retreat Supply:
The Spiritual Power of Simplicity (Community Church of Wilmette)
Excellence vs. Perfection (Advocate Health Care Parish Nurses)
Finding Our Wisdom through Forgiveness

(Seniors’ Retreat, Lake View Presbyterian/Uptown Ministry)

Winter 2008

Local LWM Programs:
Forgiveness: Freedom for a Flourishing Life
Resurrection Reimagined (A Study of The Non-Violent Atonement and The Rapture Exposed)
The Power of Forgiveness Film/ Discussion

Pulpit Supply:
Church of Jesus Christ, Reconciler
Community Church of Wilmette

Collaborations/Conversations:
Toward a Welcoming and Affirming Church (Training of Institute for Welcoming Resources)

Spring 2008

Local LWM Programs:
A Faith that Frees (A Study of Faith and Surviving Bible Abuse)
Love Your Life: Gateway to Health and Peace
Forgiveness: Freedom for a Flourishing Life
In Memory: Memorial Day Ritual for Peace
The Power of Forgiveness Film Discussion

Launch of Coaching Practice

Collaborations/Conversations:
Gay Liberation Network Interview
Out in Scripture Editorial Advisory Board
Everything Must Change Emergent Churches Conference

Summer 2008

Local LWM Programs:
LGBT Coming Out Support Group
The Power of Forgiveness Film/Discussion
For the Bible Tells Me So Film/Discussion
Forgiveness Support Group

Pulpit Supply:
St. James Presbyterian Church

Consulting:
Companis (Seattle, WA)

Fall 2008

Local LWM Programs:
A Life at Work (Study of this title by Thomas Moore)
A Meal With Micah: Prayer Breakfast for Election Anxiety
Holiday Stresses Coaching Group
The Power of Forgiveness Film/Discussion

Retreat/Workshop Supply:
Finding Our Wisdom in Time Management
(Seniors’ Retreat, Lake View Presbyterian Church/Uptown Ministry)

Life After Seminary: A Spirituality of Self-Care (Chicago Theological Seminary)

Winter 2009

Local LWM Programs:
Journey Justice Film Series
Forgiveness: Freedom for a Flourishing Life

Collaborations and Conversations:
Steadfast Love: Holy Relationships and a Wilderness God
The Heart of the Matter: Energy Leadership and Living into Change (P-FLAG, Oak Park)

Itinerant Opportunities:

Together in Ministry Covenant Group, Monthly Facilitator

(American Baptist Women in Ministry, Metro Chicago)

Spring 2009

Local LWM Programs:

Journey Justice Film Series

The Power of Forgiveness Workshops

Spiritual Life Coaching

Retreat/Pulpit Supply:

Berry Memorial UMC, Chicago

Itinerant Opportunities:

Together in Ministry Covenant Group, Monthly Facilitator

(American Baptist Women in Ministry, Metro Chicago)

Summer 2009

Local LWM Programs:

LGBT Pride Film Series

Befriending the Bible Intro Workshop

Forgive for Good: The Way of Releasing Resentment

Living With Intention: Using Five Wishes to Plan Well for End of Life

Spiritual Life Coaching

August Program Break

Retreat/Pulpit Supply:

Lake View Lutheran Church

Collaborations and Conversations:

Faith and Health Consortium of Metropolitan Chicago

Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches --

(Co-coordinator June LGBT Pride Worship Series)

Out in Scripture Lectionary Reflection Team

Fall 2009

Local LWM Programs:

Befriending the Bible Intro Workshop

"Tuesdays Together" Spirituality Group

The Power of Forgiveness Film/Discussion

Taking Time, Transforming Time: The Spiritual Promise of Self-Care

Prepare the Way of the Lord: Advent Forgiveness Retreat

Living With Intention: Using Five Wishes to Plan Well for End-of-Life

The Gift of Forgiveness Coaching Group

Spiritual Life Coaching

Retreat/Pulpit Supply:

Prayerful Living: Finding Wisdom in the Serenity Prayer (Seniors' Retreat)

Itinerant Opportunities:

Together in Ministry Covenant Group, Monthly Facilitator

(American Baptist Women in Ministry, Metro Chicago)

My Heart for Individuals' and Churches' 'Living Well"

2010-10-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

TO: AMERICAN BAPTIST CHURCHES OF METRO CHICAGO
DATE: February 6, 2008

(partially reproduced in ewind newsletter)

Rev. Jacki Belile has started Living Well Ministries (LWM), a new parachurch ministry "supporting lives of faith, intention and service." LWM will offer retreats, seminars, weekly classes, 1-1 spiritual coaching and consulting. Jacki describes LWM's focus in this way: "I am called to steward recurring related questions and themes related to living well. My heart goes out especially to those inside and outside of our churches who don't they feel they can authentically explore issues of faith identity, spiritual practice, balanced living, and sustainable activism." I also care deeply about our churches facing discouragement and obstacles to growth in the face of false notions of vitality."

Broadly outlined, LWM's offerings for individuals and congregations will fall into these categories:

a) Spirituality and Health
b) Befriending the Bible/Tradition
c) Living Well for Justice

"My prayer is that LWM will provide discipleship support for individuals and congregations," says Jacki. "An independent ministry at this time, I seek grounding for LWM in the many communities that nourish wisdom, creativity and justice." Current affiliations include:

The Association of Welcoming and Affirming Baptists
The Baptist Peace Fellowship of North America
The Chicago Coalition of Welcoming Churches
The Center for Progressive Christianity
The Network of Spiritual Progressives.

In addition to events at its West Rogers Park location, LWM will co-sponsor related events with partners in the surrounding area. Jacki will continue her ecumenical work as guest leader for churches' retreats, adult education, pulpit supply and organizational discernment.
For more information about events or consulting opportunities, contact Jacki at:

Living Well Ministries
6554 N. Rockwell Street
Chicago, IL 60645
http://www.livingwellministries.net/
jacki@livingwellministries.net
773.655.4357

JOURNEY JUSTICE FILM SERIES ARCHIVE

2010-10-07T10:00:00.000-07:00

JOURNEY JUSTICE FILM SERIES RESUMES ON TUESDAY EVENINGS IN 21010, TBA. PREVIOUS FILMS INCLUDE:

Chocolat
Healing Ourselves, Healing the World
For the Bible Tells Me So
Conversations with God (Click here for YouTube Trailer)
The Last Temptation of Christ
The Power of Forgiveness (Click here for preview)

A Day Without a Mexican

Luther

Spiritual Literacy

Darfur Now

For the Bible Tells Me So

Inlaws and Outlaws

Supporting Lives of Faith, Intention and Service

2010-10-06T09:56:00.000-07:00

supporting lives of faith, intention and service

Rev. Jacki Belile

6554 N. Rockwell Street

Chicago, IL 60645

773.655.4357

http://www.livingwellministries.net/

livingwell@rcn.com

Living Well Ministries (LWM) is dedicated to supporting lives of faith, intention and service through education, retreats and short-term spiritual coaching. Rev. Jacki Belile, an ordained American Baptist minister, is also available for ceremonies (wedding or funeral) and consulting with your local church or organization.

Founded in October 2007, LWM is inspired by the intersecting work of two movements which have shaped Jacki's life and ministry:

The Faith and Health Movement...

reconnecting the work of faith communities and the whole-person health of church and society

The Welcoming and Affirming Churches' Movement...

advancing the full inclusion of LGBT people in church and society

A Word of Welcome…LWM educational events and coaching experiences are greatly blessed by the participation of people of diverse life experiences. People of all sexual orientations, gender identities, ages, religious affiliations, physical and mental abilities, races and economic statuses are welcomed to LWM events with respect and hospitality. Attendees are expected to offer these same commitments to others. Note: When early registration deadlines are met, the need for wheel-chair accessible space will result in the likely relocation of the event.

Living Well... More than "Getting By"

2008-03-21T09:47:00.000-07:00

First… a Scriptural Inspiration. “Looking at it one way, you could say, ‘Anything goes. Because of God's immense generosity and grace, we don't have to dissect and scrutinize every action to see if it will pass muster.’ But the point is not to just get by. We want to live well, but our foremost efforts should be to help others live well. “1 Corinthians 10:23-4 (The Message)

So, what do I mean by supporting lives of faith, intention and service?

SUPPORTING… We all find ourselves at times or places in life when we need extra tools, information, encouragement or companionship for living well. LWM classes and retreats are safe, respectful places for your exploration of the spiritual growth topics that draw you here. Short-term spiritual coaching supports you by uniquely combining respect for your faith, heart-centered goal-setting and non-judgmental accountability. LWM supports wider work by partnering with those who work for social wellbeing and justice through co-sponsored events and projects.

LIVES… Our lives are precious, unique and short. LWM topics are inspired by my own journey toward living well. One particular thread in this journey has been a deepening gratitude for the sacred finitude of my life. Inspired by a story from the Talmud, I am not called to be Moses (or Mary, or Dr. King or my mom). I will be held accountable for being me; you, for being you.

Through education, coaching, ceremonies and consulting, LWM will support your precious, particular life as you explore what living well means – and does not mean – for you and/or your community.

FAITH… Faith is a verb, not a noun. Faith is not intellectual assertions or dogma, but the resilient, trusting act of letting go of our attachments to certainty and control. Many today turn from the church of their upbringing to seek support for a spiritual life which is affirming, vital and freeing. Too many have been wounded or neglected by the churches we’ve encountered. My own experiences of coming out and working within the Welcoming and Affirming Churches movement teach me that our stories are sacred. Our longings for peace, community and purpose are the work of the Spirit. Supporting faith happens as we listen respectfully to our own and others’ stories, deepen our biblical understanding, and cultivate the prayer/meditation lifestyle appropriate to our current season of life.

Whether you’re seeking to “befriend the Bible,” to nourish your faith in a time of pain or loss, or embrace a challenging faith transition, LWM will support your development and discernment. Some class/retreat themes many will find relevant include: Being a Progressive Christian, Making Peace with the Bible (programs for LGBT and straight Christians), and Creating Integrated Spiritual Practices. You may be led to attend upcoming one-day Bible study retreats, immersing yourself in biblical books or topics. Short-term spiritual coaching is designed to bless your particular needs with compassion, encouragement, brainstorming and accountability, whatever the issues that you face.

INTENTION… A favorite plaque of mine says “Discipline is remembering what you want.” Sometimes we need help figuring out “what we want,” or whether that, in fact, is for our highest good. Sometimes we know all too well what the Spirit’s leading is but lack the will, hope or support we need to live in holy intention. Whether you want to break habits that aren’t serving “living well” or build new ones that do, I believe the Spirit works through compassion and companions to accomplish God’s work in/with you. My own life experiences of striving to “live well,” along with my work in the Faith and Health movement, have convicted me of the connections between our health (relational, physical, spiritual, emotional and beyond) and our alignment with intention. I believe that supporting this connection between health and intention is the path to avoid legalism or “works” on the one hand and an “anything goes” passivity on the other.

LWM class/retreat themes proven to resonate widely include: Living the Serenity Prayer, Freedom through Forgiveness, A Spirituality of Self-Care, Excellence vs. Perfection, and others. And, short-term spiritual coaching, as inferred above, is all about living in intention!

SERVICE… A friend lovingly challenged this part of LWM’s mission. “Why wouldn’t you say justice instead of service,” she wondered? She made a strong case for what I know to be true; there are some who labor for social justice among communities to which I am also deeply committed who may see “service” as a limiting, even patronizing word. As I reflected deeply on her challenge, I wondered: Is LWM’s call to support service at odds with my/our pursuit of justice? I have the seeds for a more substantial post on this next week.

Put simply, I believe “living well” is accomplished when we live in intentional connection and solidarity with others like and unlike ourselves, for the sake of expanding justice. I hope LWM programs and coaching will play a particular role in supporting individuals’ growing wisdom and engagement as justice-seekers in this world. My call, though, is to play just one specific role in this greater work. That role can best be understood as “connector.” Supporting “lives of service” means supporting the connections between “living well” and your own leadings to deeper discipleship. That might mean a vocational (paid or unpaid!) shift for you, as you name discontent with your disconnections from justice-making. Or maybe you need a place to reflect on the connections between the local church or social service work you already do, and God’s lessons and greater picture for your life. Maybe you need a renewing prayer retreat to sustain a humble, service-oriented mindset as you undertake the demanding, long-haul work for justice. I care about helping you find AND SUSTAIN your place (not someone else’s) in the bigger picture.

Upcoming Bible and book/film classes and retreats, as well as co-sponsored events, will often teach about injustice and justice in accessible, convicting and empowering ways. Whether in educational settings or spiritual coaching, you will encounter an encouraging, creative spirit. If this is your purpose for joining Living Well Ministries, you’ll find support for follow-up choices that result in your unique contributions ---- and transformations – in relation to justice.

Living Well, Together

2008-03-20T13:26:00.000-07:00

Friends of Living Well,

This is the week that Living Well Ministries (LWM) bubbles up and out onto the web and blogosphere. Thanks to Steve Starr (web designer) and Rob Cose (web host) for getting me this far!

Friends, I look forward to deepening our existing relationships and building new ones, whether through this space or LWM events/services or both. These initial posts will introduce you to LWM’s background, vision (supporting lives of faith, intention and service) and opportunities (spiritual coaching, weekly classes, retreats, ceremonies and consulting). Later in 2008, these will be incorporated into a fully functioning website.

In the winter of 2007, the waves of imagination stirred up my heart with the glimpses of what this new space of ministry might be. At the time, I served as pastor of a magnificent community of disciples, Grace Baptist Church in Chicago. I’d been a member for ten years and then pastor for nearly seven, my entire post-college adult life. What a rare joy these days to have shared in a community’s pilgrimage for seventeen years, especially in an urban environment. More on my faith background and adult formation in a future post.

During my last years at Grace, I’d grown personally and professionally in ways that bore the seeds for this new project. With tenderness and thanksgiving, I acknowledge Grace’s supportive impact on my faith, my call to ministry, and discernment of call and season. In fact, what I know of “living well” cannot be separated from the joy of an adult faith journey lived in the midst of a welcoming and affirming Christian community like Grace. It’s why I know that Living Well is both an individual, solitary journey and one that we can’t do alone. It’s why I care about supporting lives of faith, intention and service. More on supporting lives of faith, intention and service later this week…

After many weeks of prayer, study and conversation, the call to establish Living Well Ministries was unmistakable. Some have known the Spirit to be like a dove, some like a flame, some like a wind, some like sheer silence. For me, the Spirit moved like waves of cleansing water, tides of invitation and promise. The waves came with increasing fullness, higher crests, and yet increasingly gentle urges. When “Living Well Ministries” emerged as the name of this new call, the Spirit seemed to christen each of these: the weaving together of my previous and future ministries, my resignation and parting from a beloved community, a time of Sabbath rest last summer, and the spirit, focus and pace of this ministry.

The Spirit also indirectly christens this blog, entitled “An Undivided Life,” as I go deeper into the ordination vows I made in 1999. I vow to care for my own wellness of heart, body, mind/spirit and relationships so that I can journey with you in freedom, authenticity and joy. We may meet in a coaching session or support group or in plans for your wedding; it may be in a class or retreat or a visioning workshop at your church. Perhaps we’ll labor together in a co-sponsored project. Wherever it is, I look forward to supporting you… let’s do some Living Well, together.

Peace and love,

Jacki

… I have come that they might have life, and have it abundantly.” (John 10:10)

Moving Forward from Sabbatical -- Holiday Reflections 2007 --

2008-03-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

December 28, 2007

Dear Friends,

Merry Christmas! Happy New Year! As I write this, I am filled with gratitude for a year of graced Presence, for the Lord of Love incarnate, and for all of you who share this journey with me. Thank you for your presence in my life, and for your thoughts and prayers as I embraced the summer months of sabbatical rest and the fall months of “emerging.”

One dear colleague urged me many months ago to write about my sabbatical this past summer. While there’s no finished article or presentation yet about that, I can write a few things briefly:

It was all I hoped for and so desperately needed.

I spent a lot of time outside and enjoyed inhabiting this wonderful city.

I read much about local church ministry AND delighted in reading fiction and poetry. (The biggest success was not taking notes on any of it!)

I often noticed I was doing things slowly just because I could.

Now, I catch myself thinking, sometimes, about just one thing at a time!

I’ve felt a marked shift from being future-focused to past/present reflective. (For example, savoring and reflecting upon what’s already been completed, vs. ALWAYS moving ahead to what’s due next).

I have never felt so rested.

I feel what biblical Sabbath promises -- a uniquely worshipful energy and creativity.

While I’m no longer in the uniquely restful time of complete sabbatical, I’m intentionally trying to remain in this qualitative shift as I set goals and pace the development of a new ministry.

In October, I began the programming of Living Well Ministries, a parachurch ministry committed to “supporting lives of faith, intention and service.“ In November, I moved into an office at St. James Presbyterian Church in West Rogers Park, where I will be able to hold many of LWM’s events. I’m also interested in other venues, particularly those more physically accessible.

Through LWM, I will continue to lead retreats, seminars and support groups, as well as begin a new spiritual coaching ministry for individuals and congregations. I’ll also continue to do the small event organizing that I enjoy, as LWM hosts or co-sponsors events with guest leadership.

In short, I am rested, filled with gratitude and creative stirrings. I’m prayerfully building this ministry slowly, with a passionate conviction about my own “living well” as I support others in doing so. I ask for your continued support in prayer and in whatever co-labors the Spirit might prompt.

If you’d like more information, or to discuss how I might serve you or your church in 2008, contact me at 773-655-4357 or livingwell@rcn.com. I’d be delighted to explore educational events, retreats, consulting or pulpit supply. Wherever you are in the seasons of your life’s journey, know that I think of you often and hold you in prayer. I pray that your worship, study and contemplation this Christmas season remind you of the simplicity of all Emmanuel proclaims and promises.

Peace and love,

Jacki Belile
Living Well Ministries
6554 N. Rockwell Street
Chicago, IL 60645
773-655-4357
livingwell@rcn.com