God is present and relentlessly loving us – especially in these times of uncertainty, grief, fear, frustration, and all the other emotions and situations that we are experiencing in a global pandemic.

This is the first of a three-part series of curated prayer and meditation resources. Our first stop: using technology for good!  All these tools can be downloaded as a smartphone app or delivered as a daily email.  All suggestions have come from Faith’s Adult Education Team, Prayer Lab Team, and myself (Deacon Nina).

Spending a few minutes to connect with God through an app on your phone or taking a break to read through a short devotional waiting in your in-box are great ways to use technology to help you in your faith life.

May you find a resource, suggestion, or new prayer practice that nourishes your soul and helps you connect with your Creator.

Apps:

Calm – An app with relaxing sounds, music and guided meditations to help you sleep and deal with stress and anxiety. The paid version offers meditations and stories for kids too. Free and pay versions available (Android or Apple).

Centering Prayer – This app guides you step-by-step through a practice of centering prayer. You can customize the sounds, background, and prayers/scripture included. The app allows you to set a time for 1 – 99 minutes and each session begins with the guidelines for centering prayer. I would suggest starting with 5 minutes and move up as you become more comfortable with silence. FREE! (Android or Apple)

Sanvello – An app specifically for those experiencing symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress. I like that it encourages you to name your feelings and has guided meditations. Free and pay versions available (Android or Apple).

Email Devotionals:

Center for Action and Contemplation offers free subscriptions to Richard Rohr’s Daily Meditations as email reflections sent every day of the year. Each meditation features Richard Rohr and guest authors reflecting on a yearly theme, with each week building on previous topics—but you can join at any time!

God Pause is a daily devotion brought to you by the alumni of Luther Seminary (including our very own Pastor John Klawiter). You can visit their website or subscribe to get God Pause delivered to your email inbox every morning.

Light From this Hill is a daily e-mail devotional from Saint Paul area Rev. Dr. Walt Lichtenberger. A daily inspiration will be sent to your inbox in time for your morning coffee.  All you need to do is open it. There are several series available. The first week is free and then they have “Pay what its worth” pricing.