An Exploration Of A Way Of Being In The World
In a fast paced, conflictual world, it is difficult to find an anchor that keeps us centered on what is most important and draws us to live in ways that are personally authentic, intentional, compassionate and spiritually sustaining. This on-going Eremos offering provides an opportunity to explore the rich tradition of Benedictine spirituality as a way to enrich the spiritual depth and meaning of our lives and as a guide to everyday living.
Each meeting will focus on a different Benedictine theme or teaching and appropriate short readings will be provided and discussed. Initial themes include the following but will be refined based on the interest of the group and the inspiration of the convener:
- Benedictine path as spiritual development—we’re not there yet
- Listening — Benedictine practice for all aspects of life
- The shape of the day – seeking balance
- Sacred reading and prayer – grounding all of life
- Hospitality – a habit and a mindset
this call to create within ourselves
a Monastery of the Heart.
It is the call to go down deep
into the self
in order to find there
the God who urges us
to come out of ourselves
to do the work of God,
to live in union with God
in the world around us…
…we will find that God stands waiting
to sustain us,
and support us,
and fulfill us
at every turn.
By The Invitation by Joan Chittister
Meetings will be shaped by the interests of the group, but will likely include a period of silent meditation, short readings and discussions.
Next Meeting Date:
Time:
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From Betsy Aylin, convener: I am convening this group to have companions in exploring the Benedictine way. My first exposure to Benedict’s Rule was in seminary in 1978, and I kept returning to it through the many changes in my life. A decade or more ago, on a visit to St. Benedict’s Monastery in Snowmass, Colorado, I was conferring with Fr Micah, one of the monks, expressing my sense of peace and at-home-ness at the monastery and bemoaning the difficulty of visiting the monastery so far from home. Hearing my longing, Fr. Micah suggested that I look into becoming a Benedictine Oblate. After some research I found Osage Monastery (now a retreat center) in Oklahoma and there I became an Oblate, committing to a life-long exploration of what it means to follow Benedicts path in a world very different from his. One aspect of the Benedictine path is that it is communal—lived with others. So I am drawn to make this offering to share the journey with those who are similarly interested.
