We at Mercy by the Sea have so much we want to share with you:
Inspiring and transformational quotes, prayers, poems, videos and books we discover or rediscover
Conversations with upcoming presenters
News and events about what's happening at Mercy by the Sea
Resources and thoughts on contemplative prayer, spiritual direction, the second half of life, emerging leadership, creativity, our relationship with nature and much more!
You'll find seasonal photos of the grounds — vegetation, trees and winged and four-legged creatures that make their homes here. We'll capture changes in the light and colors as the seasons change. So bookmark this page and come back regularly. or subscribe to our weekly eNewsletter where these posts will be sent to your email inbox.
Recently I attended a meeting of the leaders of Mercy retreat houses in the U.S. where the conversation focused on what people need today and how Mercy retreat houses can fill those needs. Everyone spoke deeply about the good people who show up at our doors looking for something — perhaps silence, a re-connection with themselves or God, or a trained and listening ear. I was inspired by the conversation and realized I was not alone in this unique ministry. We agreed to collaborate and cooperate with one another for the common good, to share our ideas and knowledge, and to continue to work together.
Pope Francis has been heralded as a champion of immigrants, climate change, peace, the poor and oppressed. In a recent TED Talk, Pope Francis, speaking in Italian with subtitles, made several points.
Forty-seven years ago, the first Earth Day brought together 20 million Americans; this year on April 22, a billion people across the globe will celebrate our planet in nearly 195 countries. And while attention will be rightfully focused on environmental literacy and education, Earth Day is not only about the science of a healthy planet but our sacred relationship with the natural world, our home.
As I look at spring emerging after the winter—the daffodils smiling from the overgrowth, the crocuses strong and sturdy, the renewed sense of energy all around—I am aware again that resurrection is an integral part of life. Poet and educator Kay Ryan writes that “Nothing is exempt from Resurrection!”
