The podcast explores Richard's transition from being the center of attention to joining the circle of teachers and staff. They discuss the importance of stepping back and trusting others' gifts. They also explore the healing power of contemplation and embodied action, as well as the role of good teachers. The hosts bring in Michael, the executive director, to discuss the imagination of what is institutionally possible. They also discuss communal discernment in shaping and co-creating their organization.
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Quick takeaways
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) aims to introduce Christian contemplative wisdom and practices that support transformation and inspire loving action.
Michael Poffenberger, the executive director of CAC, plays a crucial role in leading the organization through a period of transition and growth.
As the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) evolves and grows, maintaining integrity, discernment, and a sense of humor are foundational.
Deep dives
The Vision for the Center for Action and Contemplation: Introduction of Contemplative Christianity
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) aims to introduce Christian contemplative wisdom and practices that support transformation and inspire loving action. Their goal is to make contemplative Christianity accessible and recognized as a pathway of spiritual growth in the broader landscape. CAC seeks to reanimate the founding vision of the organization by being a place of formation and education, equipping individuals with tools and practices for positive impact in their lives and communities. They emphasize the importance of building partnerships with faculty and organizations to foster a contemplative movement driven by diversity and engaged social action. Success for CAC lies in maintaining spiritual joy, deepening individual and collective discernment, and contributing to the broader contemplative renewal in the world.
Collaborative Leadership: Michael Poffenberger and Richard Rohr
Michael Poffenberger, the executive director of CAC, plays a crucial role in leading the organization through a period of transition and growth. His ability to maintain objectivity and offer a good mind has been instrumental in navigating challenges and making difficult decisions. Michael's approach is grounded in collaborative leadership, seeking input and partnering with faculty and staff to shape the direction of CAC. He fosters a culture of discernment and growth, balancing the drive for clarity with openness to the ever-evolving landscape. Richard Rohr, the founder and spiritual guide, acknowledges Michael's leadership and intelligence, emphasizing the need to trust the process and maintain spiritual joy as CAC moves forward.
The Direction and Goals of the Center for Action and Contemplation
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) is focused on creating a contemplative Christian movement that impacts the world. CAC's direction is centered on introducing contemplative practices and wisdom that support transformation and inspire loving action. The organization aims to become a recognized and accessible pathway for spiritual growth, engaging a diverse range of individuals and fostering a broader contemplative renewal. Key goals include reaching a tipping point in Christian contemplative participation, establishing a diverse and engaged faculty, building partnerships to connect individuals with broader contemplative communities, and providing opportunities for deeper formation and education. Success for CAC lies in maintaining joyfulness, embracing growth, and contributing to positive change in individuals and society.
The Importance of Integrity, Discernment, and Laughter
As the Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) evolves and grows, maintaining integrity, discernment, and a sense of humor are foundational. CAC recognizes the need to balance the drive for excellence with the ability to learn and grow, giving permission to try new things even if they may fail. The focus is on staying grounded, embracing imperfection, and laughing at ourselves along the way. CAC values the collective discernment of its community, both in shaping the direction of the organization and in making meaningful connections with diverse spiritual traditions and practices. Success for CAC lies in staying true to its mission, maintaining joy, and embracing authentic growth and transformation.
The Path towards a Contemplative Christian Movement
The Center for Action and Contemplation (CAC) envisions a future where contemplative Christianity is recognized as a vital and transformative path. CAC aims to be an entry point and catalyst for this movement, supported by a diverse and engaged faculty. Success for CAC involves reaching a tipping point where contemplative Christianity becomes widely accessible and integrated into the lives of individuals and communities. By fostering partnerships and relationships, the organization seeks to connect people to local practices, communities of practice, and engaged social action. The ultimate goal is to create a contemplative renewal that is relevant and meaningful in response to the challenges of our time.
Our introductory mini-series continues! Episode two finds us back in Richard’s living room, picking up where we left off and widening the conversation to Richard’s transition from the teacher in the spotlight at the CAC to joining the circle of teachers and a staff being empowered to carry these teachings forward alongside all of you listening.
We also talk about how the CAC’s evolution as an organization — with all its gifts, foibles, and growing edges — can serve the world in supporting transformation and inspiring loving action.
Resources:
The transcript for this episode can be found here.
Learn more about the behind the scenes of Everything Belongs from the producer, Corey Wayne, here.
This podcast is made possible, thanks to the generosity of our donors. If you would love to support the ongoing work of the Center for Action and Contemplation and the continued work of our podcasts, you can donate at https://cac.org/support-cac/podcasts/ Thank you!
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