“Hesed” Hebrew for God’s Loving Kindness
Hesed Community is a nonresident Christian meditation community that was founded in 1981 in Oakland, California, by Sister Barbara Hazzard, who remained its director for over 30 years. After she retired from her role as director, the community has been carried forward by its members, and new meditators have joined us as well.
Once centered in Oakland, California, we now welcome meditators from across the nation and around the world, through daily offering of online meditation groups. We also offer some in-person events and retreats.
Our community is based upon Benedictine spirituality. Our mission is the teaching and practice of Christian Meditation as taught by John Main, OSB. Hesed is also part of the World Community for Christian Meditation.
What it Means to be a Family Brother or Sister of Hesed
by Pamela Gaskill
Even though I meditated for years before I found Hesed, I don’t believe I grew as much in positive, loving ways as I have since meditating with the Hesed Community. I feel like Hesed provided me with a Home, after wandering around in the dark alone. One can meditate alone, but the full benefit seems to manifest from regular practice with a group of like-minded people. As a Family Sister, I know I always have a community to return to. It is so comforting and gives me a feeling of safety. It is also wonderful to look into the eyes of people I love who I feel accept me as I am. That is a true blessing!