In February 2005, four groups gathered to share in the experience of the ‘God in the Now’ retreat program.  Participants came together to share their prayer experience over the four weeks at times that suited the group.  Then twice each week participants shared in a spiritual accompaniment session with the program facilitator.  During groups sessions participants were introduced to prayer forms such as Lectio Divina, Mantra or the Jesus Prayer, ‘Living in the Present Moment’ reflection and Centering Prayer.   The group sharing included Theological Refection and a process called ‘Friends of the Mystery.’

The ‘God in the Now’ experiences were convened at Thebarton (Adelaide, South Australia), Westcourt (Perth, Western Australia), Synge Street (Dublin, Ireland) and Iona (New Rochelle, USA).  Each had 8 participants

Participants’ reflections:

Comments:

Images:

From ‘Letters of Invitation’ to others encouraging them to participate in the ‘God in the Now’ experience:

‘I would encourage you to come to a ‘God in the Now’ retreat.  For me and others who have been on this first experience, it has been a life changing experience.  The major thing that I have found and that I believe you will experience is a renewed enthusiasm for prayer.  The focus on new ways of praying will change your awareness of how to come close to God.’

‘…a different image of God in the ‘now’.  You will appreciate how this would make me re-assess so much of my thinking about sin and salvation and set me focussing instead on concentrating on being a better person and making a better world here instead of always looking beyond this life.  Can you see the importance of the ‘now’ that came from this and the re-thinking it sets in train?’

‘You will be given personal guidance in using the techniques that are presented during the program.  You will be able to get clarification on what is really involved in praying in new ways.  I know that the time commitment may appear great in what is already a busy life, but I firmly believe that as you look back, you will see it as one of the most valuable commitments you have made.’

‘I learnt that life is to be lived now.  That the way we act and think is so relevant.  We are in God’s presence at all times.  I have a new understanding in God’s unconditional love.  It is not doom and gloom and guilt and sin, and it’s not striving for the hereafter but it is making the most of each day through love, commitment and prayer.’

These are some of the thoughts and feelings expressed by participants as they came to the end of their 4 weeks of working and walking with their everyday God. One renewal contact person wrote – ‘This is wonderful Spirit led work.  I am sure it will make a gentle and long term impact on the life of the Congregation.’

Perhaps you would like to find out more about this new way of reflecting, discerning and deepening one’s appreciation of a forgiving compassionate God.

Information: See Website: www.edmundrice.org/crt

or email Peter Richardson: pjrichardson@spp.edmundrice.org

Peter Harney on behalf of the Congregation Renewal Team