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:
Working here at Mercy by the Sea, we are blessed to encounter profound, uplifting and thought-provoking spiritual books, videos and articles. We wanted to share with you just a few of the gems that staff members have recently come across.
Lent is a time of entering into our inner desert, a time of stripping away distractions in order to deepen our relationship with God. It’s a time to pray, to reflect, to sacrifice small pleasures or take on spiritual practices with renewed fervor. Here are several resources that Mercy by the Sea staff have found to be valuable companions during this season. We hope they will inspire you too on your Lenten journey.
In the crisp morning chill of late autumn, I walked along the beach at Mercy by the Sea, feeling as grey as the sky. I was going through a very painful transition in life ̶ one of those that, if seen through, makes you more aware of all that is good about you, and if not… well, not. It was early enough in the process that I could not see any outcome, good or bad. I felt lost.
