This Lent, our Presiding Bishop is offering us a glimpse at the spiritual lessons he has learned in life. Through the Forward Movement, we have received a path to follow in this season of Lent which is informed by Bishop Curry’s wisdom.
Over two Saturdays we will consider Jesus’ question “What do you seek?” (John 1:38). Our Presiding Bishop says we seek four things:
LOVE: to know God’s love, to love and be loved by others, and to love ourselves.
FREEDOM: from the forces of sin, fear oppression, and division.
ABUNDANT LIFE: which is enough for all and provides love, joy, peace, and delight.
JESUS: the way of love Who has power to change lives and the world.
As we seek these things, he says, our Christian heritage gives us milestones to touch along the way.
For Bishop Curry they are: turning, learning, worshiping, blessing, going, and resting. During our time together on our two quiet (half) days we will hear scripture, consider, and discuss each of these Christian practices. Our purpose? To learn how we can introduce them into our daily lives.
You know, every person has a “rule of life,” that is, certain routines which shape daily life. This Lent, we will seek to add a small number of Christian practices that will focus us on love, freedom, abundant life, and Jesus.
Please join me for this meaningful time together on Saturday, March 30 and Saturday, April 6 from 10:30 AM to 1:00 PM in St. Paul’s Family Room. Parts One and Two of this quiet day will both take place at St. Paul’s, contrary to previous plans to hold Part Two at Trinity (due to repairs being made to Trinity’s sanctuary.)
These days do not cover the same material. We will explore different spiritual principles each Saturday. You are welcome to either as the Spirit leads but I hope you can make space for both gatherings as part of your own Lenten journey.
A light breakfast will be provided. Wear comfortable clothes. Plan to share in the Spirit with your friends. A sign-up sheet will be circulated on Sundays.
As Bishop Curry says “ By entering into reflection, discernment, and commitment around the practices of Turn- Learn- Pray- Worship- Bless- Go- Rest, I pray we will grow as communities following the loving, liberating, life giving way of Jesus that has the power to change our lives and the world.”
Faithfully, Cooper+
