What is prayer in the face of an election? In the face of polarization, division, and chaos? I explore this question with Cameron Bellm, a contemplative writer and activist who sees prayer as a deeply human response to suffering.

In this conversation, Cameron and I discuss:

The intersection of mysticism and activism: how our inner life flows outward into how we treat those around us
How prayers calls us into deeper relationship with each other
How incorporating our senses into our prayer life connects us to our humanity and the humanity of our neighbors
Drafting off the wisdom and experiences of saints and ancestors in our prayer life and in our activism
How prayer calls us to be better and why this is so needed when we engage in politics
Attention as generosity and the revolutionary idea of asking, “What are you going through?”
The perils of dehumanization and the balancing act we must do in fighting against it without dehumanizing those who perpetuate systems of harm
How prayer helps us look at the sources of hate and division within our own heart
Writing out prayers as an embodied practice
How prayer can help us find strength and hope amidst the realities of human suffering

Cameron ends the episode with a Prayer for This Election. Here are links to read, listen, and watch.

Cameron’s prayer and the offerings from all of our guests can be found on our Spiritual Practices for Political Engagement Page.

Connect with Cameron through her website, and on instagram and substack @cameronbellm.

Connect with me at katie@thiselection.org or on instagram @katie.m.cochran.

The post Prayer, Politics, and Paying Attention with Cameron Bellm appeared first on This Election.