Event: Contemplative Conversations Psalm 23: a six-week online series (22.03.24) ”He leads me beside still waters.” Psalm 23 tells us that we are not alone in the universe. Its imagery and poetry speak to us of a great companion in life, whose presence and faithfulness heal, restore, guide, comfort, protect, and awaken us to the […]
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Being and becoming the hidden treasure. (26.02.24) Recently it occurred to me that it is very likely that nothing I ever write or say or do is going to become viral. The fact that this thought occurred to me at all is revealing. It means that at some stage I must have hoped or dreamt
‘Night-time is womb time’ (John O’Donohue) (29.01.24) Dear companions, As I write this latest fruitful muse two of my five-year-old grandsons have just completed their very first day of school. It strikes me that the step from early home life to the first year of education and the intense peer environment is somewhat like leaving
Soft eyes. (27.12.23) In his famous spiritual manual, The Spiritual Exercises, Ignatius Loyola includes several ‘additions’ to his instructions on prayer. The third of these, a small line, easily missed, has grown into a practice of great significance for those drawn into this tradition. In short, Ignatius encourages the person who prays to begin by
Living in a state of grace. (27.11.23) Grace is the condition of the human story, perhaps the condition that makes possible what we mean by humanity. Contrary to popular opinion and various forms of media (social and otherwise) the world is not going to hell in a handbasket. Grace does not deny the deep suffering,
The everyday invitation to soul-based living. (26.10.23) “What will it profit a person, if she gains the whole world and forfeits her life?” (Matthew 16:26) In his sharp edged and delightful small book, The way to love (1991), Anthony DeMello invites his readers to consider a series of contrasts between soul-based and worldly feelings and
This is the day. (01.10.23) What day is it? asked Pooh. ”It’s today,” squeaked Piglet. “My favourite day,” said Pooh (A.A. Milne) “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow … “ (Matthew 6:34a). There’s something magnificent about living in the day that we’re actually in and being fully present to it in a spirit of hospitality,
What are Spiritual Retreats? One-day or half day retreats A retreat day or half-day creates an extended space for individuals and groups to slow down, breathe, touch base with the meaning of life and what matters, to pay attention to themselves and to be open to the ways in which God is gently approaching them
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What is Contemplative Groupwork? The opportunity to meet with friends and/or colleagues in a guided process of reflective group conversation can be a wonderful and liberating experience. In contemplative conversations we are enabled to trace the rhythms of grace and blessing within our daily lives and histories. We can talk honestly and freely about values,
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What is Spiritual Direction? Spiritual direction is a deliberate spiritual practice where a person who desires to grow in faith and love meets periodically with an experienced spiritual guide for conversation. The practice has a long history and is experiencing a resurgence in popularity and interest. The purpose of receiving direction is to grow in
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