Demystifying the Sacred
A Reflection by Christine Jurisich
Demystifying the Sacred
When you hear the word “sacred,” what comes to mind? I imagine there is something about the word that brought you here. To this reflection and to this ministry. A curiosity? A wonder? A yearning?
Perhaps it is an innate knowledge that all are connected to God in some mysterious way, and you have a burning desire to feel that connection in your longing for comfort, strength, and understanding of life during a time when the world feels to many like it is on fire.
Throughout this month, I will explain some of the sacred terms I often use, in the hope that these explanations will help you find your center if you are in a time of darkness, uncertainty, and confusion. I also want to give you a better sense of all you are invited to explore when we invite you to a Sacred Circle and our new Sacred Self, Sacred Community program.
What is Sacred?
I do not use the word sacred loosely. When I use it, I do so with the belief that God’s presence is everywhere and in all parts of ordinary, daily life. It is rooted in the Christian belief in the Incarnation—that God became flesh in Jesus Christ—which means that at any moment and in any situation we can find God’s Grace.
This changes everything.
If the sacred can be found in any moment—no matter how ordinary—washing dishes, grocery shopping, and taking a walk can all be experiences of prayer and encounters with the Divine.
If the sacred can be found in anyone—no matter how much you disagree with, feel threatened by, or even despise them— you are confronted with the way you talk about them and how you treat them because they are made in the image of God and worthy of respect. You start to see how an “innocent” sarcastic joke at someone’s expense, ignoring the person at the check-out counter, or labeling someone with disdain is a denial of their dignity, an inherent dignity that is present because God resides within them (1 Cor 3:16).
This awareness of the sacred changed my whole way of looking at life. Beforehand, I attended church and listened to Jesus's teachings, especially, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind" (Mt 22:37), and compartmentalized them into a nice message to hear on Sunday morning. Monday through Saturday, I conveniently forgot what I had heard when I didn't want to step outside of my comfort zone and help someone or forgive a family member. This meant I was quick to feel hopeless when things were not going my way.
Becoming aware of the sacred in all things made me confront how I treat myself and others. I began to feel uncomfortable with my gossiping and sarcasm. I started to find the confidence to set boundaries and stand up for myself.
Believing that the sacred is everywhere means God’s grace is everywhere. In every moment of every day, you are invited to look for Divine help, inspiration, and wisdom. Listen for it and be present to it when you get angry over a news story, talking to someone with whom you disagree, or are facing a scary health diagnosis.
The sacred is found in all things and in all people. How might this belief change the way you view the people you encounter every day? How can living with the awareness that all is sacred change the way you navigate the challenges in your life?
If you are drawn to learn more about growing in awareness of the sacred within yourself and community, I hope you will come to an information meeting for our new program, “Sacred Self, Sacred Community.” Learn more here.
Discover More
If this reflection resonates with you, learn more about our new spiritual formation program coming in January of 2026, “Sacred Self, Sacred Community.”
Share in a Sacred Circle
The second full week of the month, we offer a chance to share the month’s topic in Sacred Circles on Zoom and in-person. Come to one or come to all. New participants are always welcome.
Share Here
In what ways do you listen for the still voice of God? What gets in the way of hearing?