The practice of solitude, unlike prayer or fasting might seem a little less familiar. What does it mean to practice solitude? Simply put, solitude is stepping into Jesus’ invitation to “come away to a deserted place all by yourselves and rest awhile” (Mark 6:30). Over 4-weeks (starting February 4th), we will be stepping into the practice of solitude together, as we seek to set apart time and space to dwell with God.

Below you will find suggestions on how to engage with us in the solitude practice over these 4-weeks. This includes videos to use as you gather with friends or family to help you plan for and reflect on each week’s solitude practice, and some suggested resources on solitude (books, podcasts, etc.).

Steps to engage in the Solitude practice with us each week.

Step 1: Join us for a message on Solitude each Sunday at Journey Church starting on February 4th. You can also find the message HERE on our YouTube channel if you are unable to attend.

Step 2: Read the short chapter in your Solitude Practice Guide that corresponds to each week’s teaching. (Click HERE for a digital copy or if you would like a printed copy of the Solitude Practice Guide we will have them available at church on Sundays.)

• Week 01: The Quiet Place

• Week 02: Encounter with Our Self

• Week 03: Encounter with Our Enemy

• Week 04: Encounter with God)

Step 3: Get together with a group of people (friends, another family, your family, etc.) to watch the short video below that corresponds with each Sunday’s message/teaching) and discuss the questions they provide and the next steps they suggest. Talk through your experience of the week's solitude practice.

Step 4: Engage in the practice of solitude each week as directed in the Solitude Practice Guide and based on your comfort level.

Step 5: Reflect on your experience in the space provided in the Solitude Practice Guide. You will use this to share from when you get together with friends or family.   

Step 6: Repeat these steps with us for each of the following weeks. 

Fasting Practice Videos by Practicing the Way

Suggested Resources

Rule of Life Podcast episodes by Practicing the Way (click on the links below to access or find on your favorite podcast platform.)

• Solitude 01: An Introduction to Solitude

• Solitude 02: The Quiet Place

• Solitude 03: Encounter with Our Self

• Solitude 04: Encounter with Our Enemy

• Solitude 05: Encounter with Our God

• Solitude 06: Question and Response

Recommended Reading

• Invitation to Solitude and Silence - Ruth Haley Barton