Here are some words you might use to answer people’s questions. Adapt them, or use them to inspire your own versions.
You may also want to give people the handout, ‘Soulspace – Frequently Asked Questions” from the downloads page.
Why are you doing this? (choose one of the following)
- We are excited by what’s happening in the group, and we love all those who come. It seems to us that people here are experiencing a fuller life. They are making friends. They are [drinking great coffee… Add your examples]. The atmosphere is really welcoming. And all this adds up to a richer life. Soulspace is simply an extension of that – an optional chance to experience the fullness of life but in a different kind of way, in a spiritual way.
- We know how stressful life can get and there never seems to be enough time just to ‘be’. Not having that time can close us off from enriching experiences in the quiet space of our inner hearts – things like inner healing and processing our emotions. Some of us might find there’s even a spiritual atmosphere to that space which gives us a sense of peace, hope, or comfort. We’ll trial Soulspace for a while and see how it goes, and we’d love to hear whether and how people benefit from having time to ‘be’.
- As you may know, several of us are Christians, and as Christians we follow Jesus, who is known as one of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders. One of the things Jesus talked about was abundant life – a life of fullness. And so that’s what we want to share – richness of life: in what we are already doing here, but also in offering this spiritual oasis called Soulspace.
- While we’ve been chatting together, we’ve heard conversations that have touched on [ethical/ spiritual themes], and some of you have questions or wonderings about [faith/our purpose in life/the life beyond this one]. Soulspace might be a way to explore some of those thoughts and feelings in a spiritual context. Your specific questions might not always be answered, but it may help to unlock some deeper reflection for you. We’re always here to talk any time too, if you want to.
If I come, do I have to go to church?
- Soulspace is designed for anyone, whether they have some kind of spiritual faith or not. There is no pressure to believe specific things.
- You can just absorb what is going on, relax into the space, enjoy the music, the readings and the pictures, listen or take part in any conversations that happen, and hope that the experience is helpful in some way, whether that’s bringing a sense of peace, hope and stillness or simply feeling better inside.
- Some people may find it helps them to feel connected to something bigger than themselves, or they might feel moved to pray, or they may feel nothing at all. Any of that is OK.
- Soulspace is simply an opportunity to take time out in our busy lives. You can use the time in whatever way is helpful to you. We hope you will enjoy it.
Is Soulspace like Alpha?
- No. Alpha is a course, Soulspace is not. Soulspace is a gentle, welcoming space that you can use in any way you wish.
- People attend Alpha to explore the Christian faith, whereas people can come to Soulspace without that intention. If you want to explore the spiritual side of life you can, and if you want to learn more about Jesus, known as one of the world’s greatest spiritual leaders, there are opportunities for you to do so. But there are no expectations that you will.
- We come from the church, and so we are delighted to talk about Jesus if you would like. But we are not here to pressure you into the Christian faith.
- Soulspace is an opportunity for reflection and conversation. Within the space it creates, you can travel in whatever direction you want.
Supporting files on the downloads page.