Day 7. Held.
On December 12, 2023, Debbie Waite led ‘The Mindful Writing Workshop’ where participants engaged in reflective reading and writing exercises inspired by Psalm 27, Isaiah 4:2-6, and Acts 11:1-18.
On December 12, 2023, Debbie Waite led ‘The Mindful Writing Workshop’ where participants engaged in reflective reading and writing exercises inspired by Psalm 27, Isaiah 4:2-6, and Acts 11:1-18.
Zoanna expresses difficulty embracing Advent while waiting in everyday life. She suggests that amid such pauses, reflecting on words like “Wait, Hope, Love, Rest” is enough.
The Selah Center recently held a Poustinia, a Russian tradition of silent retreat for prayer and solitude, to prepare participants for Advent. This practice seeks to remove distractions and foster clearer communication with God. Wendy Bryant, one of the participants, shared her contemplative experience through a heartfelt prayer during the retreat. The center also followed the Revised Common Lectionary for daily scripture readings during Advent.
Christopher Ball reflects on anticipation, endurance, and faith for Advent Day 3.
The post explores the tradition and significance of Advent calendars that count down the days until Christmas. Originated by German Lutherans, these calendars have evolved to include devotional readings or small gifts. The author relives her childhood enthusiasm for Advent calendars through daily contemplative writings on the ‘Here & Now’ blog.
Lorina Meade reflects on the importance of living in the present moment, particularly during Advent. She compares it to the Biblical manna, the daily sustenance provided by God, emphasizing the need to trust in God’s daily provisions while also anticipating the future. Meade encourages enjoying Christmas traditions and preparations as they happen, rather than rushing towards the main day, thereby capturing the essence of ‘nowness’.
In her personal and spiritual journey, Karen Nelson navigates through grief and loneliness, finding solace in the Advent season. She explores how accepting grief can pave the way for joy and overall spiritual growth.
Contemplative writer, Karen Nelson shares a big secret with her readers in “No Big Secret.” Shh…it’s a secret.
Pastor Steve Garnaas-Holmes offers this prayer of gratitude for this Thanksgiving.
Sandy Shipman shares her frustration and her triumph as she returns to the fitness center after a bout with Chron’s Disease.
Kathleen Heppell shares a poem with contemplations on “Being with a Plant.”