Ascension will be holding its annual Advent Quiet Day on Saturday, December 15 starting at 10AM in the Parish Hall. This year’s quiet day, led by the Rev. Dr. James Reho, will be focused on Hesychastic Prayer, one of the oldest forms of Christian meditation. Coming from the Elders of the Desert, this tradition teaches us to experience God in the heart, to tap into the Holy Spirit that lives within us. This experience, which we can have daily, powerfully transforms us into “the likeness of God.” In this half day together, we will learn about this tradition as well as learn a practice for unveiling this indwelling God as resident in our own open hearts. Finally, we will explore how to use the opened heart for the healing of deep emotional trauma in our lives. The day will begin and end with corporate prayer, and lunch is included. Please bring a meditation cushion and/or shawl if they are part of your typical practice. All levels of meditators and pray-ers are welcome… especially beginners!
Newsletter
Parish News: April 26
In this week’s newsletter, Mother Liz celebrates Earth Month alongside Eastertide, noting how resurrection speaks not only to humanity but to “the groaning of the whole creation” and God’s determination to make all things new. She observes that when Mary Magdalene mistakes the risen Christ for a gardener, we glimpse the deep interconnection of all beings—and when we touch creation’s wounds with reverence and compassion, we meet God. Quoting Robin Wall Kimmerer, the rector reminds us that “when we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us,” and invites us to deepen our love and commitment to our fragile, beautiful planet.
