Posted by Melissa Borgmann-Kiemde, Vis Companion
On Saturday, December 4, 2010, the Vis Companions convened at Girard House Monastery for their annual Advent retreat. This year’s reflection was lead by Sr. Suzanne Homeyer. The theme this year was: BREATHE IN, ENTER, EXPERIENCE, CELEBRATE THE PRESENCE OF GOD.
Sr. Suzanne led the group through a series of centering exercises and introduced everyone to Lectio Divina. According to Sr. Mary Frances, “there was silence, ritual, fellowship, sharing…everything a good morning includes!”
The following reflection on the morning arrives from Vis Companion Phil Soucheray. We are grateful to have his words here to re-post and share with all of you — especially those discerning their own “companion-ing” relationship with the Nuns.
Phil Soucheray and Sr. Katherine
Reflection from Vis Companion Phil Soucheray:
In the course of every day life it’s easy to lose sight of just how important it is to bring our focus back to that point of true center in our lives — Love. This morning of Advent reflection, so artfully directed by Sister Suzanne for all who were able to attend, was truly one of those respites that help get one properly grounded in relation with God and others.
The theme for the day was “Enter into the presence.” And through the exercises we were allowed to undertake I was pleased to have been able to take away what I hope will become something of a mantra for me throughout the Advent season and onward. That is:
“See the presence; enter it”
“Receive the presence; absorb it”
“Share the presence; breathe it out”Peace,
Phil
How are you seeing, receiving, sharing this season?
Happy Advent! Happy Entering into the Presence of Love! Incarnational Blessings!
3 Comments
Maureen O'Connor · December 14, 2010 at 10:02 am
Hello, All,
It is always wonderful to hear from Phil Soucheray and this Advent is no different. I love the mantra and after I get it memorized, I will use it. It is beautifully written, simple and yet wise.
Thanks, Phil and Melissa for posting it.
Maureen
sr. suzanne homeyer · December 14, 2010 at 10:24 am
dear phil, thanks for the blog post! i am so happy you enjoyed the companions advent retreat morning. i feel blessed to have led it and blessed again by the sharing of all at this months second monday salesian gathering…..let’s hear it for what the manger animals can teach us about spiritual friendship! simplicity, strength, cuddliness, patience and cheerfulness! blessings to all for this lovely season. sr. suzanne
SKatherine · December 18, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Way to go, Phil! Thank you for your beautiful recap with such good further insights.It brings it all back-after all it was a week ago! Sr. Katherine (SK2)