Fasting courses
What if we are missing out on one of Jesus' most essential practices?
Fasting is going without food for a set amount of time to awaken our body and soul to our deep hunger and need for God. It's one of the most powerful — and neglected — of all of Jesus' practices.
John Mark Comer, 'Practicing the Way'
As a church, we want to grow as disciples of Jesus. If you would like to learn more about the practice of fasting, sign up to the 4-week courses which begin on Monday 10th March at 1pm or Wednesday 12th March at 7.30pm
Monday course link:
https://stpeterschurchloudwater.churchsuite.com/events/sairbn8b
10th, 17th, 24th, 31st March
Wednesday course link:
https://stpeterschurchloudwater.churchsuite.com/events/jevfyoev
12th, 19th, 26th March, 2nd April
Still not sure about joining a course? Here are answers to some FAQ’s that you might find helpful.
Q: I’m not comfortable with idea of spiritual practices. Isn’t this all a bit legalistic?
A: You’re right, legalism is not a good thing. Spiritual practices and legalism are incompatible. Think of spiritual practices as gifts to be unwrapped rather than laws to be obeyed. The spiritual practices are tried and tested habits that have helped people experience the love of God and transformation in Christ. They are good things to be enjoyed rather than commands to be slavishly obeyed.
Q: But isn’t John Mark Comer American and does he have an American accent?
A: Yes, John Mark Comer is American and does have an accent (like we all do). Last time I checked, there is nothing wrong with being American or having an American accent! (I have even heard people say they don’t like John Mark Comer’s hair, but I probably shouldn’t even respond to that one).
Q: Isn’t ‘practicing’ spelt incorrectly?
A: It’s an American spelling – please don’t let it bother you too much!
Q: Sometimes I find the messaging at church confusing. On the one hand we are a busy church but at the same time we are talking about spiritual practices like sabbath and solitude. Isn’t this mixed messaging?
A: I think we are following in the footsteps of Jesus who modelled a life of engagement and ministry as well as withdrawal, rest, prayer (and the other 9 spiritual habits the Practicing the Way courses address)
Q: I’m not sure about these 9 spiritual practices. Are there really just 9 and is this the only way we can think about spiritual practices?
A: Yes, there are many ways to think about spiritual habits and different terms and language can be used to articulate the kinds of things Christians have found helpful throughout church history. No one needs to be dogmatic about these things. We can call the practices different things or find other ways of categorising the habits. No problem. John Mark Comer is just offering one possible model.
Q: I am not super holy. Will I be embarrassed if I come to one of these courses?
A: If you are not super holy then join the club. None of us are perfect and none of us need to feel embarrassed about our present spiritual condition. These courses are designed to help real people, in all their brokenness and imperfections, experience more peace and joy in Jesus. No one should be made to feel embarrassed as they share honestly about how they are really doing in their discipleship.
And one more for luck –
Q: Why is Danny doing this on a Wednesday night, doesn’t he know this is when many life groups meet?
A: Yes, that is the point! Come along with your life group and engage in this together. If you come as a group you will be able to sit together and you will not need to interact with anyone who is not in your group (although saying hello to others is always nice!).