June 15, 2025 • 23 mins
Discovering Your Radiance with Gordon Creamer
Join us in this enlightening podcast episode with Gordon Creamer, the creator of Mission Bridge and program director at The Well for the Journey. Gordon, a spiritual director, end-of-life doula, and reiki practitioner, shares his life’s mission to empower individuals to recognize their spiritual essence. Dive into discussions on the concept of 'radiance,' the impact of the Holy Spirit, and the transformative power of grief. Learn about the diverse programs at Well for The Journey, including support for dementia caregivers, and discover how we can find meaning and joy through spiritual companioning. Whether in person or online, Gordon's work transcends faith boundaries, aiming to foster a sense of belonging and spiritual nourishment for all.
00:00 Welcome and Introduction
00:13 Gordon's Spiritual Journey
01:16 The Concept of Radiance
01:53 Experiences and Stories of Radiance
02:56 Obstacles to Recognizing Radiance
06:39 The Well for the Journey
08:34 Programs and Outreach
11:33 Gordon's Personal Contact Information
13:22 Grief and Transformation
18:55 Current Projects and Future Plans
21:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Well for the Journey website: https://wellforthejourney.org/
Email Gordon: themissionbridge@yahoo.com
The Good News! podcast series is part of the ListeningforClues portfolio. Catch us at https://listeningforclues.com/
© 2025 Listening for Clues
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Hello, friends.
Would you describe yourselfas having Radiance?
Our podcast guest, Gordon Creamer,would emphatically say yes.
Discover more about what radiance trulymeans, even in life's darkest moments.
Join the conversation with us, theGood News team, Lynn Shematek and
(00:24):
Deacons, Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch.
Jon Shematek (00:27):
Gordon Creamer, welcome to our podcast.
Good News!
Lauren and I are both absolutelythrilled that you're joining us today.
Gordon Creamer (00:37):
I'm excited to be here.
Thank you for the warm invitation.
Lauren Welch (00:40):
Gordon, you are the creator of Mission Bridge, and
are currently serving as programdirector of Well for The Journey.
You're a spiritual director, endof life doula, reiki practitioner.
Share with us what it is that seemsto be a thread in your life that you
want to, empower people to know thatthey are spiritual beings, becoming
(01:06):
human beings instead of vice versa,which most of us think we are.
Gordon Creamer (01:10):
On a foundational level, it comes from, God, the Holy One as I
refer to God or Spirit as a gift, anauthentic gift, and it's been powerful
and meaningful and enlightening.
My life journey of 47 yearsto see it's unfolding.
(01:34):
I believe at its core, that's, what itmeans to me and how I see it, as a part
of my every day and moment to moment.
There's a word that's arisingfor me, and it has been for
the last several months when I.
Take a moment and pause and spend sometime in contemplation about that gift as
(01:56):
it unfolds, and that word is radiance.
So part of where I focus in myjourney with folks, however I might
be accompanying them, it could be ona retreat, it might be in spiritual
companioning or guiding, is invitingthem to behold their own radiance.
Lauren Welch (02:15):
can you share what happens when people are finally able to see that?
Can you share a story of whensomeone had an aha moment?
Gordon Creamer (02:26):
Yes.
it happens pretty regularlyand is attributed to.
The presence of the spiritas I'm gathering with folks
in those various capacities.
it can be at, Well for theJourney, where I'm privileged
to work as the program director.
It might be in a group or a retreat.
sometimes it's happening one-on-oneand other times it's in that
(02:49):
communal setting and it's powerful.
Sometimes it might happen subtly, asthey say, the light bulb goes off.
to see how that, takes its own journeyof unfolding in that person's life
or that group or community, it's avery rich experience as a witness, to
behold that and to also, continuallybe grateful for the opportunity to
(03:13):
engage with others, in capacity.
for myself, the gratitude isdeeply present because it's
so life-giving and fulfilling
Jon Shematek (03:21):
I'm wondering, Gordon, about the sense of radiance.
what obstacles I or people put inthe way of really recognizing that,
I've had some folks even on thispodcast where, wow, you've got an aura
about you, and I think that's maybeanother word for what you're thinking.
And they are stunned and surprised.
when people come to your retreatsor in the course of spiritual
(03:44):
companioning, are they expecting.
Something like this or is it a surprise
Gordon Creamer (03:50):
I'm glad you're raising that question.
I find this, to be a phenomenon I lovewords and creating descriptions for
various programs or how I'm showingup in the world, As human beings,
we do a lot of assumptive reading.
We don't read all of our emails.
Even if they're short, We mightbe interested in something like
the title and sign up for it, or,gosh, I just wanna go and retreat.
(04:13):
It doesn't really matter what.
And again, we're turning back to thepresence and the power of the Holy Spirit.
She does great things in her work.
even in preparing and planning fora program or a one-on-one session
for spiritual companioning ordirection, it's really the work of
(04:34):
God, that makes all things possible.
if we can be open.
To that invitation that's ever present,that radiance can be tapped into.
held, observed, celebrated,moment to moment.
That doesn't always happenbecause things get in the way.
You mentioned, barriersor things of that nature.
(04:55):
That's part of our human nature and weare constantly bombarded with information,
things clutter up our spiritual lens.
Being able to recognize the spirit and thework of God in our lives and in the world.
opportunities to be with folks in deeplistening helps to clear the field, helps
(05:17):
to polish the lens, that we might belooking through to, glimpse that radiance
Sometimes it's about glimpsing itand other times it's being, in the
radiance and aware of that radiancethat leads us to positive action.
Jon Shematek (05:35):
Yeah.
I love that way to think of that the otherthing I'm wondering about, thinking about
spiritual companioning, we use the worddiscernment and trying to discern, we've
had other folks on the podcast talk in asecular way, even talking about discerning
what their purpose is and so on.
Is this radiance or this sensehave a direct connection with
(05:58):
discerning what's God's will, in youropinion, what God's will is for the
Gordon Creamer (06:02):
I believe so, and that's part of my spiritual practice
of being with others in that journeyas a spiritual director or companion
or guide, that inner radiance isalways available, much like joy.
yet because of a myriad ofreasons we aren't able to.
(06:23):
Recognize that radiance.
practices such as discernment helpto return us to that illumination.
sometimes it's just being reminded thatwe have that radiance and all of its
possibilities, and other times it's,galvanizing that radiance being grounded
in it to take action in a vocationalway, in a way that we are intended to.
(06:49):
By our Creator
Lauren Welch (06:51):
And how has this radiance and I love your, use of joy
too because when we recognize thatwe are part of that radiance, we are
grateful and joy is abundant around us.
how has that guided you?
Gordon Creamer (07:07):
This is where I can begin speaking about Well for the Journey.
I love being a part of The Well communityand have had the privilege to serve
in various capacities, over the yearswe're in our 23rd year and I first heard
about The Well, almost a decade ago.
I started guiding programs thereand served on the board, and as a
(07:30):
volunteer for the last almost threeyears, I have been the program
director, which is such a privilege.
The Well has a really importantmission for the healing of the world.
we focus on three foundations,within our mission.
And I'll just quickly name them.
It's a deeper sense of connection toourselves and other living beings,
(07:53):
and ultimately to whatever namewe have for that, which is greater
Spirit, God the Universe or Mystery.
A deep sense of community,that we're not alone.
emerging from the pandemic has remindedus of the importance of community.
thirdly, spiritual nourishment,spiritual wellbeing and things that
sustain us on this journey of beinga spiritual being, in human form.
(08:19):
to tie that to radiance joy and otherthings that are permanent, that we
always have access to, Name countlessexamples of how that happens through
anything that The Well is doing.
It could be a program.
We have a weekly reflectioncall on Wednesdays.
We have different, ways of showing upto partner with other organizations.
(08:40):
For example, we are, currently providingspiritual wellness programming for the
dementia community and its caregivers.
to help folks, even if it's just inthe moment to realize that connection,
that community, and that spiritualwellbeing that they are entitled
to because of that inner radiance.
Jon Shematek (09:01):
Gordon most of our folks are here, in the Maryland region.
Can you just talk, let, people know,first of all, are the programs there?
There's a variety of 'em.
I know, and you've highlighted that.
are you still offeringonline access to programs?
I know with Covid that happened, but,where is it and how do people find it?
Gordon Creamer (09:22):
Yeah.
Thank you for that question.
Our current, residence is in the historicLutherville area on Seminary Avenue.
we share and rent our space from Church ofthe Holy Comforter, an Episcopal church.
also, worshiping there is areconstructionist synagogue Voice
of the Heart is what that means.
(09:42):
And so we identify that we are onan Interspiritual campus, and that
really speaks to the identity ofThe Well in the types of programs
that we offer, both in person,
groups designed for deep, reflectionsharing and engagement, as well as online.
I'm grateful for my predecessor,Jean Ann Walsh, who when the pandemic
(10:04):
happened, was able to help transportall of our programming from in
person to the virtual online format.
about three years ago, when it was time tosafely start gathering again in person, we
said, this has opened up The Well to theentire world and especially our country.
we have folks that join us, for onlineprogramming in 46 different states,
(10:28):
from other countries in North America.
And we've even had folks as far.
Away join online such asSouth Korea and, South Africa.
Lauren Welch (10:40):
Wow.
how do people, know aboutthe, programs at The Well?
How do you, publicize those?
Gordon Creamer (10:48):
I'm privileged to work with four other staff members and each of
us has our own area, of responsibility.
unlike a lot of organizations,we do so much collaboratively.
We make a lot of decisions together.
We each bring our own.
Gifts, our own ways of being creativeWe have a weekly staff meeting where
(11:08):
a lot of the decisions we make, are.
Decided, and it's also where I liketo say that the magic happens always
holding our mission before us andcreating from that place Manager
and her name is Tami Tarwacki.
What she does, to promote thingsonline, so we have a social media
presence, we have a weekly emailthat comes out, on Wednesday
(11:33):
evenings called For Your Journey.
And that's a great way to tune inand find out what's new and exciting.
We'll have articles, and otherthings related to what's happening
at the well posted there.
And then we have a wonderful website,that is dynamic and engaging and
provides a lot of different information.
Jon Shematek (11:52):
That's great, Gordon.
And we'll put those links in ourshow notes on the audio version
as well as the, video, versionof this podcast what about you?
if someone wanted to contact you about.
spiritual companioning or somethingthey wanted to work with you on?
Is there an email address that,you're comfortable releasing or that
you'd prefer to be reached through?
Gordon Creamer (12:12):
sure.
you could easily contact me at myWell for the Journey email address.
that's my first name, Gordon,G-O-R-D-O-N, at, Well for the Journey.org.
I also have my own, business andministry that I've had for almost 16
years called the Mission Bridge, andthat's really through which I work
with folks in spiritual companioning.
And sometimes folks reach out, and theywould like me to design a retreat or
(12:36):
a workshop for, their organization.
It could be, a dedicated spiritual group.
a church or worshiping community,some kind of spiritual wellness group.
Or it could be some of the retreat centersthat I offer programs through, one of
which is The Well, I'm very blessed formany years to be offering programs at Bon
Secour Retreat Center in Marriottsville.
Jon Shematek (12:57):
this crosses all sorts of spiritual boundaries, this is not
restricted to any particular beliefsystem, religion, or faith, tradition.
Gordon Creamer (13:06):
All are welcome.
there's a focus, and enjoymentin my own life on diversity.
part of what flows out ofour mission is an emphasis on
diversity, equity, and belonging.
That is integral to our mission.
We want every person knocking on ourdoor and coming in, whether at our center
or online, to really be immersed in asense of belonging that emerges from
(13:29):
connection with one's inner radianceothers, and with God through that sense
of community and spiritual nourishment.
And I just realized I didn't seemy other email address for those
that might, want to have that,and that is the Mission Bridge.
Can contact me through that.
The Mission bridge@yahoo.com.
Perfect.
Jon Shematek (13:50):
Gordon, you've had a very adventurous journey through your life
and been involved in so many, diverse.
Programs projects andexperiences as Lauren said, we
do see a common thread there.
are there any particular obstaclesyou encountered along the way
that have informed your spirituallife and, been, important for you?
(14:13):
You don't have to bear your soul.
But if there's anything that was, amagical moment or not so magical moment.
Gordon Creamer (14:21):
Well, a lot of the fruit that I believe is born in
our own lives and our spirituallives, comes through transformation.
And that transformation has its deepestroots when it has involved a deep
wounding or, a significant, experienceof trauma pain, on various levels.
(14:43):
And so for myself, a significantway that I show up in the world is
in and around grief and grief work.
And about 12 years ago, almost 13years ago, I had a profound experience.
With a deep wounding of my soul, thatcame as a result of an experience
(15:06):
I had with a longtime friend.
it was a barrier.
pouring into that, for me isattributed to the grace of God.
this awareness of choices that I hadbefore me I was led to choose compassion,
and that brought me into a place ofillumination about my life, journey
(15:30):
what was most important and integral,for who I am and my mission, in life.
Part of how I can participate in theDivine mission that we're all called to.
So growing out of that, everythingbecame transformed, not just, on a
spiritual level and understanding thatinner radiance of others and myself.
(15:55):
But it shows up in the differentcontributions I try to make,
in every aspect of my life.
there's the compassion component,but the bridge to that was grief
and trying to be present to my ownsense of grief, the rawness, the
cascading emotions, and the greaterpossibility of meaning being cultivated.
(16:22):
A lot of times when we're hurt,there's a sense of our power being
absconded with or kidnapped from us.
And when we are able to cultivate meaningout of something, even a dark period
or era in our lives, that's where thepower returns in its positive, authentic
(16:42):
sense, is when meaning and purposes.
Created or realized, or remembered.
So that really has me tuned in the last13 years or so to not only the relevance
of grief, but the nature of it we arecreated to be able to grieve, to weather
(17:05):
all the stations, transitions, losses,and everyday changes in our lives.
Jon Shematek (17:11):
Yeah.
thank you.
that was beautiful.
we certainly have lots ofeveryday changes these days right?
Yes, indeed.
Lauren Welch (17:20):
Great.
along with the obstacles that you havelearned from grief what has been something
that surprised you on this journey?
Gordon Creamer (17:29):
Well, about four years ago, my beloved parents died
about three weeks apart, and for afew years before that transition in
their lives, I was being made aware,by grace, from God that would be
transpiring, and there was a choiceto prepare for that or to resist it.
(17:52):
Thankfully, I did more preparing thanresisting, but there was a deep part of
me that was frightened by the realitythat my parents wouldn't be here any
longer in the way that they were.
It was very close to my mom and dad,as a nuclear unit, for all the years
that we were together on Earth.
(18:14):
And so even just the thoughtof losing them as it is for
many of us, seemed daunting.
And I wondered, I didn't stay in a placeof doubt about it, but I wondered not
only what would life be like withoutthem, how lonely because of who they
were and the role they played in my life.
thankful that I tuned in more tothe possibilities than resisting it.
(18:39):
that was an obstacle anda gift in and of itself.
that also led me to experiencethe divine possibilities that
come with an experience of grief.
Lauren Welch (18:54):
So the spirit can always surprise us, right?
No matter where we areor what the situation is.
Thank you so much,
Gordon.
Before we leave, is there anythingelse that you would like to share
with us about that's going onwith you or that you have learned?
(19:14):
What do you want to leave, ourviewers and listeners with?
Gordon Creamer (19:19):
Thank you so much for your generosity and the warm invitation.
I am a parishioner at St.
Ignatius Roman Catholic Church indowntown Baltimore, and for many years
we've had a LGBTQ+ affirming ministry,which has invited folks who identify
as part of that community as well as,family members loved ones and allies.
(19:40):
a lot of incredible things God hasbeen doing through that over the years.
And I had the privilegeto serve as a coordinator.
For 12 of those years.
I'm excited to see the possibilitiesof our new leader and what's
unfolding there I also am a studentat the Ecumenical Institute of St.
(20:01):
Mary's Seminary.
I'm in the doctorate of ministry program.
I'm preparing to submit my researchproposal, in the coming months where I
will be focusing on the experience ofdementia and what it is to be a care
partner with someone who has, dementia.
(20:22):
as we know, a hundred differentdiseases and conditions cause dementia.
the focus of the research at thistime, the research question is.
How can the experience of caregivingfor a loved one with dementia be
positively impacted, by intentionalgrief work through a spiritual framework?
(20:45):
looking for the meaning of it, cultivatingthe meaning in and around having a
loved one who has, memory impairment,and that can be very stigmatizing.
In our society and culture, howcan someone caregiving for an
individual, with dementia grieve inthe ways that they are called to?
(21:08):
Paying attention to that grieving is noteasy, and yet the divine possibilities
that are made available when we makethat space through the grieving and
the spiritual framework part of it.
It is very broad because we allare able to create meaning in
our lives in various capacities.
with it being spiritual that deeperidentity level, it could be related
(21:30):
to particular faith traditionor, a sense of religion for sure.
Spirituality is so much broader than that.
it might be music or time spentin the sanctuary of nature.
It could be embodied movement throughpractices like yoga or dancing.
It could be a sense of connection, tothose divine possibilities through,
(21:53):
gardening, storytelling, lots of otherareas where meaning exists We can
be reminded of and grounded in that,
Lauren Welch (22:02):
thank you.
Jon Shematek (22:03):
Yeah.
So Gordon, I personally want to thankyou for, being with us and giving us
your presence and your time today.
this has been an honor.
I feel like we've been onsacred ground together.
thank you very much for everythingthat you are, that you've
given to us today, especially.
Gordon Creamer (22:20):
It's really been an honor to be here and a joy.
I hope that as you continue your,good work in spreading this Good News
both of you and all of those thatyou journey with are able to glimpse
and live into their own radiance.
Thank you.
Lauren Welch (22:37):
Thank you and Jon, I want to thank all who are
viewing and listening for the giftof your presence with us today.
Until next time, peace and blessing.
Lynn Shematek (22:49):
This episode of Good News has been brought
to you by Listening for Clues.
For more podcasts, check outour YouTube channel or our
website listening for clues.com.
Hello, friends.
Would you describe yourselfas having Radiance?
Our podcast guest, Gordon Creamer,would emphatically say yes.
Discover more about what radiance trulymeans, even in life's darkest moments.
Join the conversation with us, theGood News team, Lynn Shematek and
(00:24):
Deacons, Jon Shematek and Lauren Welch.
Jon Shematek (00:27):
Gordon Creamer, welcome to our podcast.
Good News!
Lauren and I are both absolutelythrilled that you're joining us today.
Gordon Creamer (00:37):
I'm excited to be here.
Thank you for the warm invitation.
Lauren Welch (00:40):
Gordon, you are the creator of Mission Bridge, and
are currently serving as programdirector of Well for The Journey.
You're a spiritual director, endof life doula, reiki practitioner.
Share with us what it is that seemsto be a thread in your life that you
want to, empower people to know thatthey are spiritual beings, becoming
(01:06):
human beings instead of vice versa,which most of us think we are.
Gordon Creamer (01:10):
On a foundational level, it comes from, God, the Holy One as I
refer to God or Spirit as a gift, anauthentic gift, and it's been powerful
and meaningful and enlightening.
My life journey of 47 yearsto see it's unfolding.
(01:34):
I believe at its core, that's, what itmeans to me and how I see it, as a part
of my every day and moment to moment.
There's a word that's arisingfor me, and it has been for
the last several months when I.
Take a moment and pause and spend sometime in contemplation about that gift as
(01:56):
it unfolds, and that word is radiance.
So part of where I focus in myjourney with folks, however I might
be accompanying them, it could be ona retreat, it might be in spiritual
companioning or guiding, is invitingthem to behold their own radiance.
Lauren Welch (02:15):
can you share what happens when people are finally able to see that?
Can you share a story of whensomeone had an aha moment?
Gordon Creamer (02:26):
Yes.
it happens pretty regularlyand is attributed to.
The presence of the spiritas I'm gathering with folks
in those various capacities.
it can be at, Well for theJourney, where I'm privileged
to work as the program director.
It might be in a group or a retreat.
sometimes it's happening one-on-oneand other times it's in that
(02:49):
communal setting and it's powerful.
Sometimes it might happen subtly, asthey say, the light bulb goes off.
to see how that, takes its own journeyof unfolding in that person's life
or that group or community, it's avery rich experience as a witness, to
behold that and to also, continuallybe grateful for the opportunity to
(03:13):
engage with others, in capacity.
for myself, the gratitude isdeeply present because it's
so life-giving and fulfilling
Jon Shematek (03:21):
I'm wondering, Gordon, about the sense of radiance.
what obstacles I or people put inthe way of really recognizing that,
I've had some folks even on thispodcast where, wow, you've got an aura
about you, and I think that's maybeanother word for what you're thinking.
And they are stunned and surprised.
when people come to your retreatsor in the course of spiritual
(03:44):
companioning, are they expecting.
Something like this or is it a surprise
Gordon Creamer (03:50):
I'm glad you're raising that question.
I find this, to be a phenomenon I lovewords and creating descriptions for
various programs or how I'm showingup in the world, As human beings,
we do a lot of assumptive reading.
We don't read all of our emails.
Even if they're short, We mightbe interested in something like
the title and sign up for it, or,gosh, I just wanna go and retreat.
(04:13):
It doesn't really matter what.
And again, we're turning back to thepresence and the power of the Holy Spirit.
She does great things in her work.
even in preparing and planning fora program or a one-on-one session
for spiritual companioning ordirection, it's really the work of
(04:34):
God, that makes all things possible.
if we can be open.
To that invitation that's ever present,that radiance can be tapped into.
held, observed, celebrated,moment to moment.
That doesn't always happenbecause things get in the way.
You mentioned, barriersor things of that nature.
(04:55):
That's part of our human nature and weare constantly bombarded with information,
things clutter up our spiritual lens.
Being able to recognize the spirit and thework of God in our lives and in the world.
opportunities to be with folks in deeplistening helps to clear the field, helps
(05:17):
to polish the lens, that we might belooking through to, glimpse that radiance
Sometimes it's about glimpsing itand other times it's being, in the
radiance and aware of that radiancethat leads us to positive action.
Jon Shematek (05:35):
Yeah.
I love that way to think of that the otherthing I'm wondering about, thinking about
spiritual companioning, we use the worddiscernment and trying to discern, we've
had other folks on the podcast talk in asecular way, even talking about discerning
what their purpose is and so on.
Is this radiance or this sensehave a direct connection with
(05:58):
discerning what's God's will, in youropinion, what God's will is for the
Gordon Creamer (06:02):
I believe so, and that's part of my spiritual practice
of being with others in that journeyas a spiritual director or companion
or guide, that inner radiance isalways available, much like joy.
yet because of a myriad ofreasons we aren't able to.
(06:23):
Recognize that radiance.
practices such as discernment helpto return us to that illumination.
sometimes it's just being reminded thatwe have that radiance and all of its
possibilities, and other times it's,galvanizing that radiance being grounded
in it to take action in a vocationalway, in a way that we are intended to.
(06:49):
By our Creator
Lauren Welch (06:51):
And how has this radiance and I love your, use of joy
too because when we recognize thatwe are part of that radiance, we are
grateful and joy is abundant around us.
how has that guided you?
Gordon Creamer (07:07):
This is where I can begin speaking about Well for the Journey.
I love being a part of The Well communityand have had the privilege to serve
in various capacities, over the yearswe're in our 23rd year and I first heard
about The Well, almost a decade ago.
I started guiding programs thereand served on the board, and as a
(07:30):
volunteer for the last almost threeyears, I have been the program
director, which is such a privilege.
The Well has a really importantmission for the healing of the world.
we focus on three foundations,within our mission.
And I'll just quickly name them.
It's a deeper sense of connection toourselves and other living beings,
(07:53):
and ultimately to whatever namewe have for that, which is greater
Spirit, God the Universe or Mystery.
A deep sense of community,that we're not alone.
emerging from the pandemic has remindedus of the importance of community.
thirdly, spiritual nourishment,spiritual wellbeing and things that
sustain us on this journey of beinga spiritual being, in human form.
(08:19):
to tie that to radiance joy and otherthings that are permanent, that we
always have access to, Name countlessexamples of how that happens through
anything that The Well is doing.
It could be a program.
We have a weekly reflectioncall on Wednesdays.
We have different, ways of showing upto partner with other organizations.
(08:40):
For example, we are, currently providingspiritual wellness programming for the
dementia community and its caregivers.
to help folks, even if it's just inthe moment to realize that connection,
that community, and that spiritualwellbeing that they are entitled
to because of that inner radiance.
Jon Shematek (09:01):
Gordon most of our folks are here, in the Maryland region.
Can you just talk, let, people know,first of all, are the programs there?
There's a variety of 'em.
I know, and you've highlighted that.
are you still offeringonline access to programs?
I know with Covid that happened, but,where is it and how do people find it?
Gordon Creamer (09:22):
Yeah.
Thank you for that question.
Our current, residence is in the historicLutherville area on Seminary Avenue.
we share and rent our space from Church ofthe Holy Comforter, an Episcopal church.
also, worshiping there is areconstructionist synagogue Voice
of the Heart is what that means.
(09:42):
And so we identify that we are onan Interspiritual campus, and that
really speaks to the identity ofThe Well in the types of programs
that we offer, both in person,
groups designed for deep, reflectionsharing and engagement, as well as online.
I'm grateful for my predecessor,Jean Ann Walsh, who when the pandemic
(10:04):
happened, was able to help transportall of our programming from in
person to the virtual online format.
about three years ago, when it was time tosafely start gathering again in person, we
said, this has opened up The Well to theentire world and especially our country.
we have folks that join us, for onlineprogramming in 46 different states,
(10:28):
from other countries in North America.
And we've even had folks as far.
Away join online such asSouth Korea and, South Africa.
Lauren Welch (10:40):
Wow.
how do people, know aboutthe, programs at The Well?
How do you, publicize those?
Gordon Creamer (10:48):
I'm privileged to work with four other staff members and each of
us has our own area, of responsibility.
unlike a lot of organizations,we do so much collaboratively.
We make a lot of decisions together.
We each bring our own.
Gifts, our own ways of being creativeWe have a weekly staff meeting where
(11:08):
a lot of the decisions we make, are.
Decided, and it's also where I liketo say that the magic happens always
holding our mission before us andcreating from that place Manager
and her name is Tami Tarwacki.
What she does, to promote thingsonline, so we have a social media
presence, we have a weekly emailthat comes out, on Wednesday
(11:33):
evenings called For Your Journey.
And that's a great way to tune inand find out what's new and exciting.
We'll have articles, and otherthings related to what's happening
at the well posted there.
And then we have a wonderful website,that is dynamic and engaging and
provides a lot of different information.
Jon Shematek (11:52):
That's great, Gordon.
And we'll put those links in ourshow notes on the audio version
as well as the, video, versionof this podcast what about you?
if someone wanted to contact you about.
spiritual companioning or somethingthey wanted to work with you on?
Is there an email address that,you're comfortable releasing or that
you'd prefer to be reached through?
Gordon Creamer (12:12):
sure.
you could easily contact me at myWell for the Journey email address.
that's my first name, Gordon,G-O-R-D-O-N, at, Well for the Journey.org.
I also have my own, business andministry that I've had for almost 16
years called the Mission Bridge, andthat's really through which I work
with folks in spiritual companioning.
And sometimes folks reach out, and theywould like me to design a retreat or
(12:36):
a workshop for, their organization.
It could be, a dedicated spiritual group.
a church or worshiping community,some kind of spiritual wellness group.
Or it could be some of the retreat centersthat I offer programs through, one of
which is The Well, I'm very blessed formany years to be offering programs at Bon
Secour Retreat Center in Marriottsville.
Jon Shematek (12:57):
this crosses all sorts of spiritual boundaries, this is not
restricted to any particular beliefsystem, religion, or faith, tradition.
Gordon Creamer (13:06):
All are welcome.
there's a focus, and enjoymentin my own life on diversity.
part of what flows out ofour mission is an emphasis on
diversity, equity, and belonging.
That is integral to our mission.
We want every person knocking on ourdoor and coming in, whether at our center
or online, to really be immersed in asense of belonging that emerges from
(13:29):
connection with one's inner radianceothers, and with God through that sense
of community and spiritual nourishment.
And I just realized I didn't seemy other email address for those
that might, want to have that,and that is the Mission Bridge.
Can contact me through that.
The Mission bridge@yahoo.com.
Perfect.
Jon Shematek (13:50):
Gordon, you've had a very adventurous journey through your life
and been involved in so many, diverse.
Programs projects andexperiences as Lauren said, we
do see a common thread there.
are there any particular obstaclesyou encountered along the way
that have informed your spirituallife and, been, important for you?
(14:13):
You don't have to bear your soul.
But if there's anything that was, amagical moment or not so magical moment.
Gordon Creamer (14:21):
Well, a lot of the fruit that I believe is born in
our own lives and our spirituallives, comes through transformation.
And that transformation has its deepestroots when it has involved a deep
wounding or, a significant, experienceof trauma pain, on various levels.
(14:43):
And so for myself, a significantway that I show up in the world is
in and around grief and grief work.
And about 12 years ago, almost 13years ago, I had a profound experience.
With a deep wounding of my soul, thatcame as a result of an experience
(15:06):
I had with a longtime friend.
it was a barrier.
pouring into that, for me isattributed to the grace of God.
this awareness of choices that I hadbefore me I was led to choose compassion,
and that brought me into a place ofillumination about my life, journey
(15:30):
what was most important and integral,for who I am and my mission, in life.
Part of how I can participate in theDivine mission that we're all called to.
So growing out of that, everythingbecame transformed, not just, on a
spiritual level and understanding thatinner radiance of others and myself.
(15:55):
But it shows up in the differentcontributions I try to make,
in every aspect of my life.
there's the compassion component,but the bridge to that was grief
and trying to be present to my ownsense of grief, the rawness, the
cascading emotions, and the greaterpossibility of meaning being cultivated.
(16:22):
A lot of times when we're hurt,there's a sense of our power being
absconded with or kidnapped from us.
And when we are able to cultivate meaningout of something, even a dark period
or era in our lives, that's where thepower returns in its positive, authentic
(16:42):
sense, is when meaning and purposes.
Created or realized, or remembered.
So that really has me tuned in the last13 years or so to not only the relevance
of grief, but the nature of it we arecreated to be able to grieve, to weather
(17:05):
all the stations, transitions, losses,and everyday changes in our lives.
Jon Shematek (17:11):
Yeah.
thank you.
that was beautiful.
we certainly have lots ofeveryday changes these days right?
Yes, indeed.
Lauren Welch (17:20):
Great.
along with the obstacles that you havelearned from grief what has been something
that surprised you on this journey?
Gordon Creamer (17:29):
Well, about four years ago, my beloved parents died
about three weeks apart, and for afew years before that transition in
their lives, I was being made aware,by grace, from God that would be
transpiring, and there was a choiceto prepare for that or to resist it.
(17:52):
Thankfully, I did more preparing thanresisting, but there was a deep part of
me that was frightened by the realitythat my parents wouldn't be here any
longer in the way that they were.
It was very close to my mom and dad,as a nuclear unit, for all the years
that we were together on Earth.
(18:14):
And so even just the thoughtof losing them as it is for
many of us, seemed daunting.
And I wondered, I didn't stay in a placeof doubt about it, but I wondered not
only what would life be like withoutthem, how lonely because of who they
were and the role they played in my life.
thankful that I tuned in more tothe possibilities than resisting it.
(18:39):
that was an obstacle anda gift in and of itself.
that also led me to experiencethe divine possibilities that
come with an experience of grief.
Lauren Welch (18:54):
So the spirit can always surprise us, right?
No matter where we areor what the situation is.
Thank you so much,
Gordon.
Before we leave, is there anythingelse that you would like to share
with us about that's going onwith you or that you have learned?
(19:14):
What do you want to leave, ourviewers and listeners with?
Gordon Creamer (19:19):
Thank you so much for your generosity and the warm invitation.
I am a parishioner at St.
Ignatius Roman Catholic Church indowntown Baltimore, and for many years
we've had a LGBTQ+ affirming ministry,which has invited folks who identify
as part of that community as well as,family members loved ones and allies.
(19:40):
a lot of incredible things God hasbeen doing through that over the years.
And I had the privilegeto serve as a coordinator.
For 12 of those years.
I'm excited to see the possibilitiesof our new leader and what's
unfolding there I also am a studentat the Ecumenical Institute of St.
(20:01):
Mary's Seminary.
I'm in the doctorate of ministry program.
I'm preparing to submit my researchproposal, in the coming months where I
will be focusing on the experience ofdementia and what it is to be a care
partner with someone who has, dementia.
(20:22):
as we know, a hundred differentdiseases and conditions cause dementia.
the focus of the research at thistime, the research question is.
How can the experience of caregivingfor a loved one with dementia be
positively impacted, by intentionalgrief work through a spiritual framework?
(20:45):
looking for the meaning of it, cultivatingthe meaning in and around having a
loved one who has, memory impairment,and that can be very stigmatizing.
In our society and culture, howcan someone caregiving for an
individual, with dementia grieve inthe ways that they are called to?
(21:08):
Paying attention to that grieving is noteasy, and yet the divine possibilities
that are made available when we makethat space through the grieving and
the spiritual framework part of it.
It is very broad because we allare able to create meaning in
our lives in various capacities.
with it being spiritual that deeperidentity level, it could be related
(21:30):
to particular faith traditionor, a sense of religion for sure.
Spirituality is so much broader than that.
it might be music or time spentin the sanctuary of nature.
It could be embodied movement throughpractices like yoga or dancing.
It could be a sense of connection, tothose divine possibilities through,
(21:53):
gardening, storytelling, lots of otherareas where meaning exists We can
be reminded of and grounded in that,
Lauren Welch (22:02):
thank you.
Jon Shematek (22:03):
Yeah.
So Gordon, I personally want to thankyou for, being with us and giving us
your presence and your time today.
this has been an honor.
I feel like we've been onsacred ground together.
thank you very much for everythingthat you are, that you've
given to us today, especially.
Gordon Creamer (22:20):
It's really been an honor to be here and a joy.
I hope that as you continue your,good work in spreading this Good News
both of you and all of those thatyou journey with are able to glimpse
and live into their own radiance.
Thank you.
Lauren Welch (22:37):
Thank you and Jon, I want to thank all who are
viewing and listening for the giftof your presence with us today.
Until next time, peace and blessing.
Lynn Shematek (22:49):
This episode of Good News has been brought
to you by Listening for Clues.
For more podcasts, check outour YouTube channel or our
website listening for clues.com.
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