Spirituality
And yet I raise my hands aloft to God, that I might be held by God, just like a feather which has not weight from its own strength and lets itself be carried by the wind. – Hildegard of Bingen
At the Cathedral of St. Philip, spirituality is not a private pursuit or a specialized calling — it is the ordinary and ongoing work of living out our baptismal identity. Rooted in the Anglican tradition, we understand spirituality as the way we cooperate with the Holy Spirit to become more fully who we are in Christ, both as individuals and as a parish community.
We recognize that each person’s spiritual journey is unique, yet we are formed together through common prayer, shared practice, and intentional reflection. Spirituality at the Cathedral is grounded in:
- The Baptismal Covenant as the foundation for adult Christian life;
- Spiritual practices — such as daily prayer, Eucharist, reflection, and service — that help us remain open and responsive to God’s presence;
- A communal rhythm of life, where mutual support and honest conversation deepen our awareness and commitment;
- A developmental approach, recognizing that people grow at different paces and in different ways, and that the Church’s role is to meet people where they are and walk with them.
We offer a variety of opportunities for individuals and groups to explore and deepen their spiritual life. These are not ends in themselves, but resources that help us live with greater compassion, wisdom, and freedom in the world.
Whether you’re seeking clarity, renewal, or simply a next step, we invite you to engage with these offerings as part of your unfolding life in Christ.
For more information about spirituality at the Cathedral, contact Canon George Maxwell, 404-365-1088, or Jeannie Mahood, 404-365-1031.
Ongoing Spirituality Practices:
Sacred Pause: Monday Evening Centering Prayer
First, Second, and Fourth Mondays of the Month, 7-8 p.m., Cathedral
Be still and know that I am God. —Psalm 46:10
Silence is God’s first language; everything else is a poor translation. —Thomas Keating
Looking for a spiritual practice? Come on Monday evenings from 7-8 p.m. to the Good Faith Chapel, for a gathering in silent community followed by brief readings and reflection.
Come early if you would like to learn more about the method of Centering Prayer, The Prayer of Consent. Facilitators, Wyman Davis and Sandra Carey will be available from 6:30-7 p.m. to answer questions and provide brief guidelines for the practice of Centering Prayer.
Note: We will not meet on the third Monday each month, when all are invited to join our monthly Labyrinth Walk and Taizé Prayers instead.
EfM: Education for Ministry
Thursdays, 10 a.m.
Education for Ministry (EfM) is a four-year program of the School of Theology of the University of the South, Sewanee, Tennessee. Participants commit one year at a time (January–December, with a break for the summer) to participate in weekly, facilitated seminars that combine lesson discussion, theological reflection, worship, and community formation. Over the course of the four years, students study the Bible, church history, and theology, while reflecting on ministry and developing a wonderful spiritual community. For more information and registration procedures, contact the Rev. Canon George Maxwell, gmaxwell@cathedralATL.org.
Labyrinth
The labyrinth is an ancient path of prayer dating back to the medieval period of history. The third Monday of every month, we offer a facilitated labyrinth walk at 7 p.m., with an orientation at 6:45 p.m. for those new to the labyrinth. We also offer special, seasonal walks throughout the year. Brochures about the labyrinth are available in the Atrium.
The outdoor labyrinth in front of the Lanier House is open daily.
Taizé Prayers for Peace
Third Monday of each month, beginning at 8 p.m.
Taizé is an ecumenical monastic community in southern France that developed a beautiful style of prayer and attracts more than 2,000 visitors a week. During this service, simple chants are sung repetitiously; these chants become prayers of the heart. Scripture is heard, and there is an extended period of silent prayer. The service is offered the third Monday of every month from 8 to 9 p.m. in Mikell Chapel. For more information on Atlanta area Taizé services, visit this webpage or Facebook.
Spiritual Formation Committee
A group of parishioners dedicated to our contemplative ministries meet to plan and support these programs. New members are always welcome! Contact Jeannie Mahood if you’re interested, jmahood@cathedralATL.org or 404-365-1031.