Over the last twenty years I have been working in a variety of Church contexts both in the UK and abroad. As well as offering a professional service to faith-based organisations, religious orders, Christian communities and churches (see link below), I have maintained an abiding interest in promoting and facilitating spiritual conversation in small groups. The following project signifies the creation of a new configuration for this aspiration and a new phase in collaboration with others who share similar interests and enthusiasms.
The title ‘Shoreline Conversations’ expresses with some clarity the attitude and the stance, which underpins this initiative. It points to the quality of graceful communication encapsulated in the word ‘conversation’ while evoking a sense of the vibrant, constantly changing borderlands between the spiritual and the secular; the inward journey and its outward expression.
– Mark Davis
Creating Spiritual Conversation
“In moments of solitude we seek freedom, growth and understanding, but a ‘breathing space’ can also describe a place of encounter…a sacred space where friends meet to compare notes and share experience, seeking insight through a graceful exchange of thoughts and feelings. Alone or in company we seek the Divine Presence…”
Mark Davis
Our quarterly exploration of some of the major themes of a contemporary ecumenical Christian spirituality. Each includes a ‘conversation pack’ with seven booklets, each of which provides evocative words and images as a stimulus to reflection and conversation. Each theme is also illustrated by a companion ‘Edition’ where feature writers offer their own reflections on the chosen theme. Designed to inspire as well as inform, we hope that you will wish both to consider and to contribute to the on-going conversation.
Key aspects of the conversational methodology we are promoting and espousing. Notes about personal reflection and graceful conversation are complemented by advice about gathering and facilitating groups.
How individuals and local groups, associations and whole communities can participate in this three – five year ecumenical project. Exploring together what is means to live a balanced, thoughtful life from a broadly Christian perspective. How to access suitable training.
If you do decide to gather together a new group, it is worth considering if you are naturally equipped for the role of facilitator, or would you benefit from some training? Shoreline Conversations offers training for small group facilitators. There is an initial two-day workshop plus suitable required reading and offers the opportunity to learn at first hand about spiritual conversation in groups. For those who wish to further develop their understanding of facilitation in groups, further learning opportunities are available which will build on the introductory workshop.
WHO WE ARE
SHORELINE CONVERSATIONS HAS A HIGHLY EXPERIENCED TEAM OF PEOPLE COMMITTED TO THE SUPPORT AND DEVELOPMENT OF FAITH-BASED COMMUNITIES AND AGENCIES.
LYNNE LING
EDITORIAL & MARKETING
Lynne is a Methodist with wide experience of working with charities and non-profit organisations. She brings to Shoreline Conversations considerable editorial experience in Christian publishing. Her aim is to broaden the ecumenical reach of our work, whilst also overseeing Editions, the e-magazine.
MARK DAVIS
FOUNDER DIRECTOR
Mark is an experienced faith-based consultant and facilitator who has been working in a wide variety of Church contexts both in the UK and abroad. A Roman Catholic with a life-long commitment to ecumenism, his particular current interest is in helping faith-based organisations explore and preserve the spiritual legacy of their foundation.
MARK HOWARD
PRODUCTION AND DESIGN
With thirty years experience working in support of a wide range of third sector organisations; including NGOs; charities; church and other faith-based mission, aid and development education agencies; schools, colleges and community groups. Mark has developed a particular style and sensitivity appropriate to these contexts. He oversees Shoreline’s digital and print output.
SUE BROWN
ACCOUNTING
Sue has worked with Mark for several years as Office Manager and Accountant. A trained facilitator she has also been directly involved in a number of pastoral projects including days of reflection and facilitator training. She is currently also working as a local Manager of Cruse Bereavement Care.
CHRISTINE ANDERSON
ADMINISTRATION
Christine has a background in environmental and community work in inner city areas. She is a member of the Methodist Church and has trained as a Conversation Group Facilitator. Her work for ‘Shoreline’ includes research, copyright and administration.
info@shorelineconversations.com
