The Urban Well at Saint James
A source for contemplative practices
Join a growing spiritual community at The Urban Well.
Lord, teach us to pray. (Luke 11:1)
The Urban Well is our teaching center for contemplative prayer and practices that, through in-person and hybrid programming, reaches far beyond our parish to the broader community, the nation and the world. The span of our study and prayer groups, together with the Urban Well, helps Saint James to be that school of prayer that teaches us to be more centered, conscious and compassionate.
Be the change you wish to see in the world, Ghandi encourages us-that change which the church and the world need us to be. We do this through spiritual direction, daily prayer, and nightly spoken or monthly sung Compline by candlelight with incense. We meditate and practice yoga to discover new vigor and clarity in body and mind that modern neuroscience can now measure. We explore rich theological themes and wisdom from across time and faith traditions in the Mercy Seminar and other seasonal offerings. And in other retreats, we learn ways to pray, work and play that can strengthen mental health and recovery work, connecting us more deeply to God and one another.
Urban Well Testimonials
Contemplative prayer at Saint James has unified my meditative practice with my love of Jesus. I couldn’t have been more surprised to discover an age-old practice of meditation within Christianity. To me it’s about finding God within myself so that I can bring God’s love out into the world. It has felt like a revelation, a personal rebirth. —Sylvia
Daily contemplative prayer keeps me grounded in the reality of God.
—Doug
Several years ago while walking the Camino de Santiago I was confronted with the reality that I had been using God as an idol. The discipline of contemplative prayer has provided a path for me past idolatry to relationship.—John
The Urban Well provides me with a meaningful space to engage in contemplative practices among a welcoming, warm community. Through meditation, I’ve discovered my deep connection to the present moment, cultivating a spirituality that enriches both my inner world and everyday experiences. —Anthony
The Urban Well is a registered trademark of Saint James Episcopal Church.
Executive Director, Kate Brossman
Tuesday 8 AM Meditation
Friday Morning Meditation, 6:45 AM