Our D Min on-campus sessions begin today. I look forward to seeing everyone face to face again instead of written postings on our online discussion boards. The first scheduled event is a time of renewal and refreshing at the St. Bernard's Seminary in Pittsford - the same space where Community of the Savior meets weekly. For me, a familiar environment. For others, another new place to locate and get comfortable with.
I walk through the doors and immediately see familiar faces. Hugs and handshakes and catching up chatter fill the space along with the aroma of coffee. We will observe the hours (as in the divine office hours) as we work through our day, reminding ourselves of why we are pursuing this degree, what God has called us to do, setting aside the hurried pace of life to be still and reflect and reconnect.
Our spiritual guide for the day is wonderful at helping us establish a reasonable balance between worship and reflection, providing us questions to help us hear from God, to sense the presence of the divine among us. Our day is divide between time together and time alone. We can walk outdoors (it is a bit chilly but a beautiful sunny day with bright blue skies filled with the promise of spring), curl up in a cozy chair, or walk about indoors as we reflect on our assigned topics.
For me, this is the equivalent of a banquet for the soul. Well paced, filled with good things, satisfying, surrounded by welcome guests, not overly crowded and hectic. The day progresses smoothly from breakfast through lunch and into the dinner hour. The soup and rolls are warm and filling, the conversation engaging. What a wonderful day this has been. I am so glad the on-campus sessions begin thus. It sets the pace for the rest of our time together, a time that I know will be full and demanding.
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