Retreat!

I'm not sure that's the right word for today's event. We really weren't so much falling back and regrouping as we were learning how to move forward well. The day began something like this:

8:30 continental breakfast
9:00 devotions in the prayer chapel
Prayer Chapel? I had no idea the seminary HAD a prayer chapel. Sure enough, up on the 4th floor, there is a delightful sacred space conducive to worship complete with an organ and piano, an altar, a communion table - all enclosed in glass walls with a muted blue and cranberry decor.

We were encouraged to settle in for our training by learning to listen well, by developing an attitude of gratitude. We broke into small groups to experience faith sharing, a time when you listen respectfully to what others have to say, but don't respond to them, only reflect on how that works in your life, listening to your own heart and leaving any correction or instruction up to the good Lord.

Lunch was a light hearted 'getting to know more about you' time in the dining commons. Afterwards, we were directed to take a Prayer Walk. We didn't get much instruction, I wasn't sure exactly what we were to be doing during our walk, but I thoroughly enjoyed the gorgeous warm day, the blue sky. I headed towards the residence halls since I haven't really been in that direction much.

I was delighted to discover a double pond and hiking trails back there. I did feel connected to God and thoughts kept coming to me about how various things I was seeing related to my life. It was interesting to me, nothing I would want to share with anyone. The twenty minutes flew by, and I had to hurry to get back to chapel on time. I discovered an old friend who was in my small group, and caught up on what has happened in her life over the last ten years.

It was a delightful time. I was sorry to have to get back to the normal Saturday routine - groceries, cleaning, laundry. We won't have another chance for retreat for awhile, so I plan to savor this one when the road gets tiresome.