Advent Quiet Day
10 December 2011
We shared a unique and truly special opportunity of spiritual enrichment for Advent and Christmas. The Reverend Linda Gosnell+ led us in our Advent Quiet Day. The theme for the day was Advent Quiet...Mary's Peace!
Following breakfast The Rev Gosnell+ led us in meditation. We then spent truly quiet time pondering the theme; this included personal meditation and walking the Labyrinth. A second meditation leading with further insight into meditation time. We then participated in the Service of Eucharist with sharing of our learnings. And, then on to lunch.
We thank The Rev Gosnell+ for her leadership and our Rector Deedie for bringing the concept of Quiet Day to Ascension.
Icon of the Mother of God of Vladimir
Thoughts for Reflection
Mary invites you into this same intimate relationship with her son, our Lord.
Imagine yourself in Mary’s robes – with God, the Christ-child in your lap
- A God who cannot bear to be separated from you
- An eager, boisterous God – like a child, scrambling up on a mother’s lap, seizing handfuls of her clothing and nuzzling his face against yours
- God breathing hi divine breath into you
Be fully present to the thoughts and emotions this image engenders.
God is passionate for your company. Share with God your love, your fears, your sorrows, your joys, your presence.
This excellent part of our Quiet Day was prepared and presented by:
The Rev. Linda K. Gosnell, Assistant Rector Holy Cross Episcopal Church, Simpsonville, SC
Additional resources:
Ponder these Things: Praying with Icons of the Virgin by Rowan Williams
Behold the Beauty of the Lord: Praying with Icons by Henri J. M. Nouwen
Mandalas
In various spiritual traditions, mandalas may be employed for focusing attention of aspirants and adepts, as a spiritual teaching tool, for
establishing a sacred space, and as an aid to meditation and trance induction.
We had a great day. See you at our next Quiet Day!