you've been recruited.

Toward the end of 2008, I emailed three friends to test out an idea. The premise was simple: a monthly meeting of the minds to discuss topics centered on faith and creativity. Thanks to my lovely counterparts, the idea soon blossomed into chew*, a blog where the three of us post “podcasts” of ourselves conversing on a series of topics, including living simply, Don Miller’s newest book, and celebrating church traditions.

We’re all busy — really busy — and one of us has been in Europe for the past three months (cue jealousy), but so far, the concept has worked beautifully. I went to my friends seeking discourse, and I got it. I can’t thank them enough.

Now, though, we’re looking for some help. Trying to reconcile four separate schedules is difficult, and we’ve often had to settle for just three of us to join in the discussion. I’d like to see that change. Basically, if two of us are going to be out of town or working, the conversation falls apart. So, why not add a fifth collaborator to join in on the fun (and to alleviate the pressure from our four schedules)?

Are you eager to discuss topics of faith with fellow believers?

Would you describe yourself as a creative?

Are you open-minded and willing to truly converse with others regarding your faith?

Is your heart eager to learn new things?

Do you ask a good question?

If you answered yes, you might be just the person to join us on chew*.

Leave a comment or e-mail me (anniesbutterworth [at] gmail [dot] com) if you’re interested.

We hold monthly conversations via Skype or iChat (whichever happens to be up-and-running). Our discussions typically last no more than one hour, and usually are scheduled for late afternoon or early evening on Tuesdays. Two of us are on CST, and two of us are on EST, so don’t let time differences stop you from joining. We once held a discussion across continents!

Now, if you’re not really interested in making a monthly commitment, or if you’d just rather play along than be a key contributor, that’s great too.

Just head on over to the chew* blog and post your thoughts on our upcoming topic:

Domesticity and the Gospel

What role do you think domesticity (the art of cooking, gardening, creating, making things lovely) plays in the Gospel message?

We’d love to take your thoughts into consideration for our next discussion. Click over now to add your comments.

I hope by adding new voices to the discussion, chew* will continue to grow. I can’t begin to tell you what a blessing it’s been in my year to gather monthly with faraway friends to discuss things close to our hearts. I am so blessed, and I’d love to share that blessing with you!