The Contemplative Society

The Contemplative Society is a Canadian nonprofit organization dedicated to encouraging a deepening of contemplative prayer and practice rooted primarily in the Christian Wisdom tradition. While its foundation is based on Christian contemplative heritage, the Society is inclusive and supportive of other meditation and spiritual traditions. It operates as a registered charity under Business Registration Number 878177161RR0001 and is based in Victoria, British Columbia[1][4].

Mission and Vision

The Society aims to provide a consistent and balanced path for spiritual growth and transformation. This path is grounded in prayer, silence, mindful work, and draws from the 1500-year-old wisdom of the Benedictine contemplative heritage, as well as the broader Christian Wisdom lineage. The Contemplative Society fosters an environment where the heart becomes an "organ of spiritual perception," enabling practitioners to perceive and live into a spiritual realm of love[1].

Activities and Programs

The Contemplative Society offers a variety of resources, including recordings, instructional and inspirational materials in text and audio formats, all designed to support contemplative life and practice. It organizes retreats, workshops, and Wisdom schools, often led by its founding teacher, Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault, alongside other distinguished Wisdom teachers and leaders. These programs are designed both for local participants in Victoria and a global audience. The Society also collaborates with similar organizations to promote contemplative Wisdom paths in other geographic locations[1][4][5].

Governance and Operations

The organization is run by a voluntary Board of Directors and supported by a part-time Administrator. It relies on community support and donations, functioning as a nonprofit charity registered with the Canada Revenue Agency. This status enables it to offer tax receipts to donors and maintain compliance with charity regulations[1][4].

Affiliation and Community

The Contemplative Society is part of a global Wisdom-focused network, with a worldwide membership and following. It actively nurtures local teachers of the contemplative way and maintains communication channels with its members to provide a balanced and regular schedule of spiritual events and educational opportunities[1][5].

This overview reflects the organization’s commitment to fostering contemplative spiritual practice within and beyond the Christian Wisdom tradition through educational programs, retreats, and community support.

[1] https://sorrentocentre.ca/the-contemplative-society/ [2] https://www.contemplative.org/home/ [3] https://www.contemplative.org/about-us/ [4] https://www.canadahelps.org/en/charities/the-contemplative-society/ [5] https://www.twosaintschurch.ca/in-the-community/the-contemplative-society