by Sue Robb
As a child, I was taught that Advent was a time when we prepare our hearts and minds for the coming of Jesus into the world. While the theology and the practice are much deeper and more difficult to understand and carry out, Advent is always an invitation and a reminder that we need to slow down and reflect on the miracle of the Incarnation and its profound meaning. But really! Could there be a more frantic and challenging time to make this sacred journey with all the first-world consumer pressures and distractions that present themselves in the weeks leading up to Christmas? In the rush to check off holiday to-do lists, the opportunity for quiet reflection is often overlooked.
Depending on the translation, Scripture mentions Jesus retreating to pray at least 25 times. He models the importance of 1:1 time with our Creator. Like Jesus, we retreat so we can connect with our Maker, recharge, and rediscover who we are as beloved children of God.
We have several upcoming opportunities to retreat for just a couple hours.
This Advent, you are invited to join any or all of our Linger over Coffee sessions on Tuesday mornings, December 3, 10, and 17 from 9:00-11:00 am. The Sisters will offer reflections on intriguing saints and highlight how their lives and methods of prayer encourage us to deepen our prayer lives. You are invited to end your morning with Mass with the Sisters at 11:00 am.
Or, join the Sisters for Evening Prayer in Ross Chapel every Wednesday during Advent – December 4, 11, and 18 at 4:15 pm.
Do you have someone who is hard to shop for? This Christmas, consider giving the gift of Spiritual Direction with one of our trained Directors, or gift a loved one with a Marillac retreat. Whether it’s for a day, a weekend, or a week, the gift of time with the Divine rejuvenates the spirit and brings a peace that only God can give. If you want more information about our retreats, email us at retreats@scls.org
The Staff at Marillac Retreat & Spirituality Center wish you a blessed Advent and Christmas Season. If there is anything we can do to support you on your faith journey in the coming year, please contact us. Your retreat is waiting for you.
Blessings and Peace,
Sr. Susan Chase, SCL, Fr. Kevin Cullen, SJ, Sr. Judith Jackson, SCL, Sr. Paula Jauernig, SCL, and Sue Robb
