by Father Kevin Cullen, S.J.
The theme for this year’s Season of Creation (Sept. 1st – Oct. 4th) is “Peace with Creation.”
Christians around the world have been joining together to celebrate September as the Season of Creation. Our international theme from September 1 to October 4 is “Peace with Creation.” Our invitation is not only to become more aware of our earth and her needs. More importantly, our invitation is to act more justly in our use of the resources we have with our broader world community.
The Biblical text for this year is v. The prophet Isaiah depicted a world without peace as desolate due to the absence of justice and the fractured relationships between God and humanity. The devastated cities and wastelands illustrate the devastating impact of human destructive behaviors on our Earth. The prophet Isaiah’s message is so real for us today.
As faith-filled people, we hope that Creation will find peace and that justice will be restored. A peaceful Earth is the hope and desire of many people. This hope in our faith context does not mean that we stand still and quiet; instead, we act, we pray, we change, and we reconcile with Creation and our Creator in unity, in right relationship, and in solidarity.
Sister Susan Chase will begin Marillac Center’s celebration of our Season of Creation with a 6-part series on the Spiritual Wisdom of Trees. This program supports individuals in awakening, deepening, and mindfully living out their spiritual connection with Nature.
Upcoming Events
Consider joining us at Marillac Center for one of the following events:
The Spiritual Wisdom of Trees
September 8 & 22, October 6 & 20, November 3 & 17
2:30 – 3:45 p.m.
Facilitator: Sr. Susan Chase, SCL
The Christian ecumenical celebration of The Season of Creation begins September 1 with the World Day of Prayer for Creation and ends with the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi, patron of ecology. Viewed through the Lens of Christian faith, Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center invites you to attend the 6-part series examining the science and Spirit of the forest and explore the ancient wisdom trees offer us for deep connections with each other and Earth. You are invited to one or all the sessions as we explore
- Living in the light, dark and in-between times
- How to survive and thrive
- The importance of living in community
- Loss, resilience, renewal, and gratitude
Good Conversations: Enjoying Our Pilgrimage
September 11 | 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
Marillac Assembly
Fr. Kevin Cullen, S.J.
A time to renew our pilgrimage in hope. How to do see the integration of my faith in my journey? Do I give witness to hope and respect for our creation? Do I bring healing into relationships? Do I trust in God’s love that transforms me and my world?
The Transformative Power of Prayer
September 12, 9:00 a.m. – September 14, 12:00 p.m.
Sr. Mary Pat Johnson, SCL
Although we are created in the image and likeness of God, who is Love, we are born into a broken world, and in varying degrees, the wounds suffered by that brokenness have alienated us from our true identity, persons who love as God loves. These retreat days will explore the ways fidelity to prayer gradually heals those wounds, transforming us into the persons we were created to be. Time for prayer, silence, and faith sharing will be included.
