St. John's Episcopal Church, Bangor

To Know and To Share the Love of Jesus Christ

Adult Formation

A Summer-Long Retreat: AN INVITATION TO LOVE, a retreat in real life on the Great Commandment

Jesus’ Great Commandment to each Christian was and is to “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind’. This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” (Matthew 27:37-40)

Doesn’t it seem increasingly true that the first part of this passage is relatively easy in comparison to the second? Do you think – or hope – we’re given a pass on either part just because – in our opinion – so many of our neighbors are thinking and acting so very WRONG? Hmmm…

Please consider joining a group of your fellow parishioners as together we attempt to find a bit of spiritual renewal and strength over the summer. We will be following a set of readings and meditations in An Invitation to Love by William Barry, SJ who was one of the most experienced and best-loved spiritual directors of our time.

“An Invitation to Love provides a practical and adaptable sequence of prayer sessions on the great commandment of the Christian faith: to love God and love our neighbor. All other aspects of a healthy and hopeful life grow from our practices of love. When we experience God’s love for us, we can respond with a growing love for God. Loving God will transform us into people who can love our neighbors, too, whoever they are. The voice that speaks in these pages so personally and warmly is that of William A. Barry, SJ, who for decades has gently accompanied people in their prayer. His understanding of Scripture, expertise in nurturing spiritual growth, and joyful confidence in God’s desire for our friendship prepares a welcoming and walkable path to conversation with God and renewal in our hearts.” – Amazon.com

Meetings will be on Thursdays from 6:30-7:30pm on Zoom and run through September 10, 2026. We look forward to seeing you there. If you have any questions, please contact Pat.

Great Wednesdays at St. John’s

Great Wednesday is currently on break. Please check back in the future for more information about upcoming sessions.

St. John’s Book Group

The Women’s Book Group invites you to their next meeting, on July 21st at 2:00pm, to discuss “The Correspondent” by Virginia Evans. The group meets on Zoom and all are welcome. Please contact the office with any questions. The group meets on Zoom and all are welcome. Please contact the office with any questions.

Interested readers may contact the church office for more information. New members are always welcome.