Being New Spirituality Center
About the Center
We believe that contemplative insight and practice are key to the transformation of our spirits, touching that deep place of heart and of being that lives in each of us. We are a resource for Central Iowa, creating events to which all are welcome, as well as opening space for offerings that others bring.
We are located in the lower level of Grace Lutheran Church, 5201 Urbandale Avenue, Des Moines, IA 50310. Use the north door off the parking lot marked ‘Grace Hall’ and follow the signs.
There is no fee for the offerings that come from the center. Donations to cover our expenses are thus received with special gratitude! There is a basket in the center. Checks may be made out to Grace Lutheran Church with Being New in the memo line. You may also donate online through the church’s website. Follow this link and choose Being New from the drop-down menu: https://tithe.ly/give_new/www/#/tithely/give-one-time/2854737
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email [email protected]
Current Offerings
New!
NEW Conversations on Contemplation, Contemplative Practice and Contemplative Living
First Friday of every month starting September 5, 9:00- 11:00 at Being New
We will meet for Centering Prayer and conversation on themes related to contemplative living. Kathy Reardon and other members of the COCI leadership service team will guide conversations to deepen our spiritual awareness and relationship with self, others, the Holy and the sacred lives we’ve been given to live. Offered by COCI and BNSC. Open to all seekers
NEW! Silent Prayer and Meditation for People Who Are Marginalized
Monday, June 16 at 10:00 AM
Grace Hall 2, Grace Lutheran Church (and via Zoom)
This month’s gathering falls between two powerful anniversaries:
- May 25 marked five years since the murder of George Floyd.
- June 17 will mark ten years since the tragedy at Mother Emanuel AME Church, where nine people were killed in a racially motivated act of violence.
Both are painful reminders of the deep harm caused by white supremacy and racial injustice. June is also Pride Month, a time to honor and stand in solidarity with those whose lives and identities challenge narrow norms. Our language may fall short, but our hearts can learn to see each other more fully—beyond categories, in the light of truth and love. In this spirit, we gather in shared silence—a space beneath words—to hold one another and the world in prayer, reflection, and hope. When we meet in this way, we help build a foundation for communities rooted in respect, dignity, and mutual care. These monthly hybrid gatherings, co-sponsored by Being New and COCI, are offered for the healing, health, and peace of our world. To attend via Zoom, please contact Julie Honsey for the link.
SoulCollage®
SoulCollage® is offered on the first and third Mondays each month at 6:30 p.m. The fee is $15.00 to cover supplies and materials. Cindy Schloss-Calhoun is our new SoulCollage Facilitator at the Center. For more than 35 years, Cindy has worked as a therapist with children, families, and adults. Her gentle, welcoming presence is a beautiful addition to SoulCollage! Please contact Cindy Schloss-Calhoun for more information.
Recovery Cafe
Recovery Cafe: Fridays at noon at Being New. Recovery Circle is for anyone navigating challenges like addiction, depressions, life transitions — or simply seeking a healthier lifestyle or deeper sense of purpose. The circle offers a safe space to share without judgment, set goals, celebrate steps of progress, and move forward. Questions? For more information, contact [email protected], 515-608-0913.
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual Direction is available through Deb Richards. You can reach her at [email protected].
Energy and Sound Healing Monthly Gatherings
Come bask in a loving space through crystal tuning bowls and Reiki healing energy, 6:30pm the second Monday of each month. Contact Julie Good at [email protected] or 515-306-4864 so she can plan for your presence. Instead of a fee, participants are invited to make a donation to Being New Center.
Yoga
Hatha Yoga instruction Tuesdays at Grace Lutheran from 6:00-7:30 p.m.
Hatha Yoga followed by Yoga Nidra meditation with Linda Garcia. $15 per class, paid only when you attend. Linda’s advanced training includes assisting and modifying poses so that you can fully enjoy the benefits. Text Linda at 515-371-6296 if you are interested in attending.
Book Studies
New! Hybrid Book Group
The Wisdom Way of Knowing: Reclaiming an Ancient Tradition to Awaken the Heart by Cynthia Bourgeault provides an excellent foundation for further work with the many Wisdom resources that are available and that we are exploring at Being New. Because of the great interest, 6 week book studies on this text, limited to 8 participants, will be offered on an ongoing basis. The next open session will run Wednesdays, September 3-October 8 at the Center. Interested? Contact Julie Honsey
Wisdom Practice Series
Wisdom Circles began early this year. These are in-depth groups for study, practice and sharing based on the streams of wisdom that have come to us through the ages, and especially as articulated in our own time by Episcopal priest and mystic, Cynthia Bourgeault. Contact Julie Honsey ([email protected]) or Joan Fumetti ([email protected]) if you are interested in learning more. The book circle and the Wisdom Practice Series offer excellent foundation for this work.