Most of us spend a lot of time imagining the future. We picture what might happen next, sometimes with hope, sometimes with worry.  Praydreaming takes that same imagination and offers it to God.

Rooted in the Ignatian tradition and drawn from the work of Fr. Mark Thibodeaux, SJ, praydreaming is a way of listening for where God is already at work in our deepest longings. 

It is a practical tool for discernment, whether you are facing a personal decision, a season of change, or a question about where God is leading your church or ministry.

Praydreaming doesn't ask us to solve an unknown future. It invites us to pause, to turn around, to notice the holy seeds God has already planted, and to enter more fully into God's ongoing work by discerning our next right step.

What to expect

The day moves at an unhurried pace. We will begin by looking back, naming the stepping stones that have brought us to this moment. Then we will learn the practice of praydreaming and try it together. You will have time on your own to pray, write, and walk, followed by small group sharing about what you noticed.

Each participant receives a workbook to take home.

No experience with contemplative prayer is needed. Come as you are.

Who it's for

Anyone discerning a next step. 

• Pastors and church leaders. 

• Small groups and leadership teams. 

• People in transition. 

• Anyone who senses God may be up to something and wants space to notice it.

About your facilitator

Rev. Dr. Craig J. Sefa is pastor of Shiloh United Methodist Church in Granite Quarry, NC, a spiritual director, and retreat faculty with Deeper Journey Ministries. He has led praydreaming workshops for congregations, clergy, and the NC Synod of the ELCA, and is currently writing a devotional book on Praydreaming.