Rule of Life

Central Peninsula Church invites its community to live by a shared “rule of life”—a set of spiritual practices that help followers of Jesus grow together in Christlikeness and impact the San Francisco Peninsula.

In a busy, polarized culture, this rule of life offers intentional rhythms of presence with God and participation with God, forming every part of daily life around Jesus’ call: “Come, follow me…The Kingdom of God has come near.” Repentance means re-imagining and aligning all of life with this good news.

Spiritual formation is a dynamic, lifelong journey—what Eugene Peterson calls “a long obedience in the same direction”—best pursued in community and empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Launched as part of CPC’s ten-year vision, this shared rule of life helps CPC become a transformed people transforming the Peninsula, organizing personal and communal habits to cultivate deep faith and gracious cultural engagement.

A rule of life is like a trellis for a vine—providing structure so spiritual growth can flourish. From the Latin regula (“guide”), it’s a set of intentional practices and relational rhythms that help Christians stay rooted in God’s presence and purpose.

Biblical Roots & Purpose
Daniel modeled a rule of life through fixed prayer and faithful habits in Babylon, and Jesus practiced rhythms to stay connected to the Father. Likewise, a rule helps us live as Jesus would live if He were us.

CPC’s Framework
Central Peninsula Church organizes its rule around two movements:

• Presence to God – becoming transformed people.

• Participation with God – transforming the Peninsula.

These shape four key practices: attentiveness, renewing the mind, hospitality, and vocation, inviting daily openness to the Spirit.

Approach

• Invitation, not law: Flexible and grace-filled, a “rule that bends.”

• Community-based: Best explored with a group for mutual support.

• Experimental: Try practices, adapt to your season of life.

In short, CPC’s rule of life is a flexible guide that supports spiritual formation and helps us live as transformed people who transform the Peninsula.