The unique Shekina Community
In a garden of Pai, Thailand, a group of Christians are doing things differently. Their leaders offer inclusivity for diverse individuals. This is revolutionary in itself. The community practices healthy and sustainable lifestyles to improve the world.
I learned more about the Shekina Community during the pandemic when some of their leaders co-hosted an online women’s circle at the time. “Come just as you are,” they wrote. I experienced trusting freedom for anyone to love who they want and be who they are.
Following their existence through vivid visuals on Instagram, we can see a group that makes conscious choices for their people and anyone they can support. The face-to-face program involves community gardening, Bhakti Hatha yoga, craft, ‘juggle jam,’ candle-lit Bhakti yin yoga and Christ-centred meditation.
Their calm style is the opposite of the moshing happy-clappy crowd of Sydney churches. The Shekina Community applies a mindful, spiritual practice to their open-minded Biblical beliefs. Staff lead in-person meditations that are recorded for their public podcast. Their attendees conclude the practice with chai, “Because chai is life.” Visitors can also attend a Labyrinth Walking Meditation. Kirtan evening involves “songs from the Yeshu bhaktas of India.”
The soul is nourished, and the body is fed with natural nurturing plants. Yogis and curious travellers become nourished at the Community Lunch, with vegetables and music. Turmeric is harvested before becoming dehydrated to mix into drinks. Peanuts are harvested, dried and roasted to cook in satay for lunch. A pineapple grows in the “Prickle Patch.”
Living the ethic of loving one’s neighbour, the community provides charitable support to nearby people in need. They sent basic groceries and foods to families in the Nam Huu area and planned to be “making this a more regular rhythm.”
You can mindfully follow this community’s meditations from anywhere by listening to the Shekina Meditation Podcast. This is a fresh perspective for anyone. Recordings are available on Spotify and major podcast platforms. This is a unique group and resource, with beliefs and practices I have not seen anywhere else. I feel comforted hearing about a God that embraces our authentic selves, accepting any way we love and live.
If you enjoy supporting inclusive spiritual communities, I passionately encourage you to join the Patreon community of the Shekina Meditation Podcast. You gain access to extras, including more audio. During September, you can receive a postcard with a handwritten note when signing up.
To read more about the Shekina Community, see their website and follow updates on social media.
This article includes unaffiliated links to support the Shekina Community. It is a gesture of my support. I am not officially connected with the brand.
