Program participants and retreatants frequently walk the grounds here at Mercy by the Sea, as do staff members. For guests, the land and water offer opportunities for quiet reflection. For staff, walking the property can clear our heads or give us the chance to move our bodies, which have been sitting too long. It’s also a beautiful way to walk towards one’s daily goal of 10,000 steps.
When I originally began this reflection, I had planned to write about the Climate Study which had been released to the media. Within days of my putting pen to paper, Mr. Trump responded to North Korean threats with warnings of “fire and fury,” and we were suddenly on the brink of a nuclear war. Then came the threat of military action in Venezuela, quickly followed by the horrendous events in Charlottesville, Virginia. What’s a blogger to do? It’s all so overwhelming for me that I forget that also this week people were kind to each other, mothers gave birth, families enjoyed vacation time, students prepared for school, and most people continued to prefer love to hatred, violence and bigotry.
Last weekend, Program Associate Claire Rusowicz and I welcomed 35 individuals who came to Mercy by the Sea to “rest in God.” The three-day silent retreat offered Centering Prayer sessions; a labyrinth walk; Saturday night gathering with chants, prayers and reflection; and much quiet time for walks on the beach and grounds, reading, gazing at the artwork that graces the main building; and private prayer.
Many of the participants asked for copies of various quotes, poems and prayers that were used throughout the retreat. Here is a sampling:
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.