Mary Pandiani reflects on the essence of the Advent season and Christmas, illustrating it through the joy of a newborn baby. She emphasizes that God’s presence and gift of light are within everyone, a view supported by William Shannon.
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.
Breathe, pause, listen, hear
Spirit awakens wonder
Pause, embrace beloved
Deb Tripp
struggle to let go
refocus and re-engage
as part of the whole
Theresa Schaudies
Alienation
Seeking different Gods we become
Alien nation
Tom Cashman
Oh, the powerful pause
Helps me listen much better
It is space for Grace
Tressa Peterson
Broken heart exposed
Pain, anger, sadness cry out
Love is here, waiting.
Wendy Bryant
May I be aware
Of Holy Spirit guidance
And very grateful.
Tressa Peterson
Intention toward You
Giver of love Who gives all
Bend my heart in love
Lynne Benson
With wonder….wander
Intentional wandering
Is not squandering
Kathy Bentall
Written by: Lynne Benson, Kathy Bentall, Wendy Bryant, Tom Cashman,