Being With only works if people are willing to generously host.

In the early stages of our experience of Being With, I have been moved by the depth of sharing among those gathered, the honoring of our deepest questions, and the universal longing to grow in faith without fear of judgment. As bishop, I long for our people to know the depths of Christ’s love, and to live with a firm persuasion that their lives matter to God. I look forward to all that our Being With journey will reveal. 

Rt Rev Mariann Edgar Budde – Bishop of Washington

With guidance by Course Hosts, participants are encouraged to share meaningfully, with their group, without fear or fear of judgement. The illustrations for the course are the stories of people’s lives and require people to be open and honest about themselves, creating a shared experience and connecting the experience with the Christian story. The gatherings are therefore more personal in nature and require vulnerability and openness. To create these safe spaces, it is essential that Course Hosts are well-trained and resourced, understanding the vision, values and methodology of Being With. The course requires two hosts per course (8-12 participants).

Teresa of Avila reminds us, ‘Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on earth but yours.’ Grace is God involving us, even though we are unsteady partners. In a true and pure partnership, we are valued for whatever we bring: not used, but delighted in and enjoyed. Like one turning to another to say, ‘I’ll help you in your blindness if you help me in my deafness’

See below to learn more about hosting.