This Quiet Morning’s theme is “The Walking Wounded”, informed by the story of Jacob, a patriarch of the Hebrew community, in the book of Genesis, who spends a night wrestling with an angel, and receives a blessing. We reflect on what this means for his understanding of both himself as blessed and wounded, and of God. Many of us struggle with both the idea and presence of God at times, and may have something to gain from the contemplation of this strange and deeply engaging story.
"Quiet Morning" is an adaptation of the Anglican Christian practice of a "Quiet Day", often conducted in a monastery or convent with facilitation from a nun or a monk. "Quiet Morning” condenses several practices in a shorter time and is mainly an opportunity to withdraw from the pressure and noise of daily life to appreciate the presence of God in silence, in which we listen for the promptings of the Spirit within.
The morning begins at 9:30 am and includes a brief welcome and opening prayers. We follow an ancient practice called Lectio Divina (Latin for divine reading) that emphasizes slow reading of a reading of scripture (handout provided) to encourage “listening with the ear of the heart.” There is a brief instruction for this portion, then complete silence is observed. The “lectio" takes around 45 minutes.
Participants may choose to remain in the church for the whole time or walk or sit for a while outdoors. After a short break they are invited to join in Visio Divina. This is the contemplative viewing of an image or piece of art chosen to enlarge the impression of the reading for 20 to 30 minutes followed by a time of individual sharing of emerging words or concepts. A selected reading is then shared with the whole group with time to reflect together. The morning closes with a time of group prayer just before noon.
The morning will be guided by Richard Stetson, retired priest of the Anglican Parish of Salt Spring Island and brother in the Franciscan Community of Frances and Clare.
There is no charge to attend, however your donation towards the upkeep of this historic, sacred site will be gratefully accepted. Donations may be made at the event or as outlined on our home page.
Please register in advance, as it helps with planning. However, those who have not registered are most welcome. Please register by clicking on the link below. Some browsers disable the clickable link; in that case send an email to staroftheseassi@gmail.com to register.
Bring indoor footwear as shoes are removed at the door, and bring your own water bottle and/or hot drink.