The Contemplative Blogger

Chronicles of a Would-Be Contemplative

Welcome to my blog! I’m Lydia Penner, a retired elementary teacher who loves cats, early morning coffee, writing and just hanging out in my inner city neighbourhood with my house church community of Watershed. Since I was a kid, I’ve been drawn to God and the contemplative life. As a character in a novel by writer Dostoevski once said, “All my life I have been haunted by God.” Who am I? What does it mean that God is closer to me than my own breath? I may be 62 but I’m still a beginner on this journey.

In 2023, I’ll be traveling to Dallas, Texas in January, April, August and November to join 32 others in a “Contemplative Cohort” (with Life in the Trinity Ministry). In between each visit, I’ll have assignments – a book to read, writing assignments and contemplative practices to explore on my walk of faith. I know I’ll often fall flat on my face, but still, I feel hopeful! Join me as I reflect on what the heck it’s all about.

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