Sabbath as resistance
Sabbath Innovation Lab to host Brian McLaren for conversation
In a time when many faith leaders and communities are feeling overwhelmed by the pace and pressure of the world, the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)’s 1001 New Worshiping Communities movement is offering a space for rest, reflection and renewal.
On Tuesday, Oct. 7, from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. Eastern Time, the Sabbath Innovation Lab will host a virtual event titled "Sabbath as Resistance," featuring author, speaker and public theologian the Rev. Dr. Brian McLaren. The event is free and open to all. Register here.
McLaren, a former pastor and a leading voice in the progressive Christian movement, is known for his work on spiritual formation, ecological justice and reimagining faith in the 21st century. He has written more than 20 books, including "The Last Voyage" (2025), the first installment in a science fiction trilogy. His 2024 nonfiction book, "Life After Doom: Wisdom and Courage for a World Falling Apart," won a Nautilus Award and explores how people of faith can respond to global crises with courage, compassion and contemplative practice.
The Rev. Jeff Eddings, associate for coaching and spiritual formation with 1001 New Worshiping Communities, will facilitate the conversation with McLaren. Eddings began the Sabbath Innovation Lab series in late January, facilitating monthly cohort meetings about sabbath practices and inviting special guests as guides to contemplative and sabbath practices for public events like the one McLaren will be leading.
“More than ever, I find our pastors and leaders need to connect with Sabbath practice as a way of grounding them for the constant barrage of demands and news cycles,” Eddings said. He described McLaren as “an important public figure in the progressive Christian movement who many have turned to for care and direction,” and said he looks forward to hearing McLaren’s “wisdom around how Sabbath and self-care have anchored him through his years of active ministry.”
The upcoming Sabbath Innovation Lab event will focus on how Sabbath and practices such as contemplative prayer, time in nature and creative expression can help individuals stay grounded and show up as a force for love and good in a world facing deep challenges.
“What I think the gift of Sabbath is for us is a complete invitation to be fully present into the space,” Eddings said on a recent episode of the New Way podcast hosted by the Rev. Sara Hayden.
Eddings said the Oct. 7 event is especially timely for pastors, leaders and anyone feeling the weight of constant demands and news cycles. The Sabbath Innovation Lab series is designed to help participants explore the spiritual and practical dimensions of sabbath as a form of resistance to burnout and disconnection.
“Sabbath is not just about rest,” Eddings said at a previous Sabbath Innovation Lab gathering. “It’s about reconnecting with God, with ourselves and with the world in a deeper, more intentional way.”
The evening will include a live conversation between McLaren and Eddings, followed by time for questions and reflection. Participants are encouraged to bring their own experiences and curiosity to the space.
Register for the Sabbath Innovation Lab with the Rev. Dr. Brian McLaren on Tuesday, Oct. 7th, from 6:30 p.m. through 8:30pm Eastern Time.
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