Proximity Podcast - Episode 3
The Lost Art of Formation - Sara Richards

In this episode of Proximity, we explore The Lost Art of Formation with Sara Richards, the Campus Pastor of Discipleship at Bethel University. Together, we unpack what spiritual formation truly means in a world driven by achievement, distraction, and instant gratification. Sara shares how young adults today are navigating the tension between performance-based faith and a genuine, abiding relationship with Jesus. We talk about how formation happens best not in isolation but in community—through practices that shape the heart over time, like prayer, reflection, and intentional mentoring relationships.

Sara invites us to see formation as a lifelong journey, one that integrates head, heart, and hands. It's not about checking spiritual boxes but learning to live from a place of surrender and awareness of God's presence in everyday life. We discuss the importance of making space for stillness and the role of discomfort in spiritual growth—how God often does His deepest work when we slow down and let Him lead.

Ultimately, The Lost Art of Formation challenges us to resist shallow spirituality and to rediscover a life rooted in being, not just doing. Whether you're a student, a leader, or simply someone longing to grow deeper in faith, this conversation offers practical wisdom for how to become more like Jesus from the inside out.

Interviewee: Sara Richards

Pastor Sara joins the Bethel University team with a heart for the spiritual formation and direction of college-age students. She has over 20 years of pastoral experience and has earned postgraduate certificates in spiritual formation and spiritual direction. Sara is married to her husband Chad and has three sons, Zach, Caden, and Eli. She holds a B.A. from Bethel University '96.

Book References
Invitation to a Journey: A Road Map for Spiritual Formation (Transforming Resources): tinyurl.com/yurdymj8

Practicing the Way: Be with Jesus. Become like him. Do as he did.: tinyurl.com/36n2wnwx

The Spirit of the Disciplines: Understanding How God Changes Lives: tinyurl.com/2cxuxfta

Renovation of the Heart: tinyurl.com/552d4tcb

Bible Project: bibleproject.com

Sacred Rhythms: Arranging Our Lives for Spiritual Transformation: tinyurl.com/2kyz4jch

The Deeply Formed Life: Five Transformative Values to Root Us in the Way of Jesus: tinyurl.com/5bpm6s5r