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In 2014, I am facilitating a 12-week interactive online course in contemplative prayer and action for priests with Saint Luke Institute. Please visit SLIconnect.org to learn more: https://www.sliconnect.org/product/living-god-program-contemplative-life-2/
In 2014, I am facilitating a 12-week interactive online course in contemplative prayer and action for priests with Saint Luke Institute. Please visit SLIconnect.org to learn more: https://www.sliconnect.org/product/living-god-program-contemplative-life-2/
Tuesday 7th
Week of Easter
Springfield Priests’
Retreat
June 3, 2014
FAREWELLS AT SLI +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø
At SLI we have a monthly commissioning of
residents who have been with us for 6 months
Ø
It is customary for one of the residents or a
member of the spiritual formation team to offer a farewell reflection
Ø
When I am asked to do this I can’t help but see
their commissioning as a threshold over which they are crossing into something
new
FAREWELL AT EPHESUS +++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø
In 1st reading, Paul is making his
way to Jerusalem by sea
Ø
While the ship is docked at Miletus, he sends
for the leading members of the Church in Ephesus
Ø
When they come together, he gives them what
amounts to a farewell address
Ø
This would have been familiar ground for his
hearers, but Paul recognizes that he’s embarking on something new
(1) The
Spirit’s compelling him to Jerusalem has an element of uncertainty about it and
he admits the Spirit has warned him it will include suffering
(2) Through
faith in that Spirit, Paul’s assured that it’ll advance the Gospel
(3) Finally
knowing the suffering and assured by the Spirit, he’s ready to sacrifice
whatever it takes; his only concern is finishing God’s work
FAREWELL OF THIS
RETREAT +++++++++++++++++++++
Ø
Could not this retreat, my brothers, constitute
a similar kind of commissioning?
Ø
If compared to 6-months residential program, it
could well be a time for new self-care skills, life-giving insights, newly
kindled relationships
Ø
If compared to Paul’s taking leave of the
Ephesians, it could well be meeting the challenges and suffering awaiting us on
Friday in our parishes
Ø
Assured, that our on-going commitment to
priesthood will advance the Gospel in our own community
CONCLUSION
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Ø
May our focus this week on “Prayer That Makes a Difference” prepare us to sacrifice whatever
the challenge to finish God’s work will take!
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
