Right now, we are entering into the darkest, coldest time of the year. It’s a time many of us feel solitude, silence … and take time to develop our own internal light, reflecting and developing our individual spirituality in quiet ways. As necessary as this time is in the cycle of our year, we also look forward to the bright, warm glow of spring. Spring is a time of growth, a time where we come together in joy to celebrate Christ’s resurrection and to once again bask in the longer, brighter days. Spring is our time to share our spirituality with one another, reflecting each other’s light and, like plants that send roots into the earth and branches into the air, deepening and heightening our own faith. Spring is the time of Discovery Weekend.
What is Discovery Weekend? Many of us have attended Discovery Weekend before, but for those who have not, we found that not only were we able to deepen our faith, we also deepened, strengthened and built new bonds with the others who attended. This happened seemingly without effort – despite any shyness or how well (or not) we knew others who attended. It is truly a magical time, filled with good food, music, art, prayer and conversation made easy through fascinating and enjoyable spiritual exercises. The experience moved us both so deeply that, upon conclusion of last year’s weekend, we both almost immediately and simultaneously raised our hands to organize this year’s event.
The theme for the weekend is “Here I Am, Lord.” In addition to being a familiar hymn from Alleluia II, it is also a statement that reflects much about our parish and each of us today. Where do we stand in relation to our Lord? Where are we on our own spiritual pathway, and why has God placed each of us here at this time? Where is our parish as we search for a new rector and shape our future? What is our place in our community and in our world, as individuals and as a parish? What is God entreating us to do? Here we are … ready to explore answers to these questions and more.
We invite and encourage you to save the date: Friday evening, April 24; Saturday April 25 and Sunday morning, April 26. We hope that the prospect of this magical time will serve as a beacon, lighting your path through the dark days of autumn and winter. For whatever your place along the spiritual path, we promise this year’s Discovery Weekend will be an opportunity to deepen your faith, brighten your life and forge new friendships and relationships within our spiritual community. Here we are. Will you join us? Mark the date on your calendar now … and watch for your invitation to arrive by mail after the holidays.
Blessings,
Pamela Houston and Jennifer Vanadia
Springtime courtesy of the Garden Guild.