Exploring Peace began as a blog in 2010 as Whitney felt an invitation to explore the gift of God's peace and also share that gift with others. Today, it is a ministry of embodied spirituality offering soul care through contemplative retreats, spiritual direction, yoga, meditation, and more and is overseen by founder, Whitney R. Simpson and the Exploring Peace Ministries Advisory Council. We are a group of people who are passionate about meeting you as peace seekers at the intersection of spiritual formation and social justice. Our purpose is to cultivate safe space for soul care.
Why the dove and olive branch symbol? While the journey of peace is unique for each of us, these classic early symbols of Christianity, capture an invitation for exploration. By the 5th century, a dove with an olive branch was an international symbol of peace. It was then that St. Augustine wrote, "perpetual peace is indicated by the olive branch which the dove brought with it when it returned to the ark." Peace is not easy and yet the gift of God's perpetual peace is one worth clinging to and can never be taken for granted. If you look closely, you'll see the dove is also a hand mudra. Mudras are ancient gestures often made with the hands in a yoga practice that focus our energy or intent. Our focus here is on our connection with our Creator. Our intent is to be peace seekers and peace makers. Will you join us? |