July 2008

"Time, quiet, space, place, sharing, listening, company of others, reflection. Affirmation of present ways and challenge of new and other ways." These are the words which came tumbling out of those who took part in the spirituality workshop which ended last September 2007.

Jesus said "The Father and I are one". This is what was at the heart of a busy, hectic and yet contemplative life. In the pages of the Gospels we gain the impression that in Jesus was a still centre in the midst of busy-ness. This impression continues throughout the whole of the Passion narrative when Jesus is tried, flogged and crucified. This relationship of Jesus with his father is all important and at the heart of all his life and ministry.

The aim of prayer is union with God the Father through Jesus Christ in the power of the Spirit - God the Trinity "in whom we live and move and have our being". The contemplative life is not one which is hidden away, on its own far from the life of the world, but through silence and quiet waiting on God, we draw inspiration to go into the hectic, busy life, where we will find God again, present in all the activity. There can be no doubt that prayer needs to be at the heart of all our life and this is a relationship with the living God.

It is fortunate that Irene Vickers is able to begin a new Spirituality Workshop Course in October, which will provide the opportunity to join with others in reflecting upon your faith journey, discovering various aspects of prayer, and exploring together ways of being at the service of the church. This will take place at Hennor, near Leominster, and there must be a commitment of one day each month for a year, and for a weekend retreat. It is open to ordained and lay people and there is a maximum of 12 places. If you would like the opportunity of the experience of a lifetime, are interested, and would like to find out more please either contact Irene Vickers, telephone 01547 530577 or get in touch with me, telephone 01588 673571.