As we continue our journey through Paths to Belonging, David Wilcox’s "The Beautiful" offers a tender companion for times we feel overwhelmed and weary. David opens the song in a museum, an unexpected refuge where beauty offers a kind of shelter from a world that feels tragic and too heavy to hold. He names a truth many of us carry: that in the “ocean deep,” when the waves of sorrow or fear rise, our most dearly-held hopes and even our faith can feel thin. And he reminds us that beauty–quiet, ordinary, human beauty–can help steady us. A smile from a stranger, a moment of kindness, a glimpse of light and shadow can warm the heart enough to keep going. We invite you to listen and spend a few moments reflecting on the feelings, images, and memories the song evokes in you. Remember you are not alone and that belonging reveals itself in simple, grace-filled moments of human connection and Divine presence.

The Garden welcomes Josh Riddick for a message on justice, faith, and how Jesus’ desert journey offers courage and clarity for our moment.

To Be Known, Chosen, and Loved

A powerful call to action from a local vigil: “Never Again” is now. Stand up for dignity, justice, and immigrant rights in Indianapolis.

With The Universal Christ , Richard Rohr presents a vision of Christ not as a figure confined to Jesus alone or to Christianity, but as the eternal, cosmic presence of God permeating all creation from the beginning. Rohr distinguishes between Jesus (the historical person) and Christ (the divine reality revealed through Jesus). He argues that Jesus is the “first incarnation,” present in every person, place, and particle of the universe. Drawing on Scripture—especially John 1, Colossians 1, and Paul—along with early Christian mystics and contemporary science, Rohr reframes salvation. Rather than describing it as rescue from a fallen world, he presents salvation as awakening to the divine presence already within and among us. This universal, incarnational vision invites a way of life grounded in compassion, solidarity with suffering, and participation in the healing and transformation of the whole world. Rohr’s approach also offers a theological grounding that aligns with The Garden’s emphasis on finding the sacred in the ordinary and celebrating a universal spiritual nature. Come explore this with us Sunday at The Garden.

A stirring reflection on the Black National Anthem’s enduring message of hope, unity, and the pursuit of freedom—honoring Black History Month through song and story.

Reflections on a community celebration honoring Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., with powerful storytelling, music, and recognition of local justice work, hosted by northside Indianapolis Shalom Zone churches.

A gentle reflection on the spiritual practice of stillness—inviting readers to pause, notice, and embrace the quiet beauty of going nowhere during Lent.

Learning to Greet the Day With Wonder