“The Characteristics of Mystical Hope…

We might make the following observations about this other kind of hope, which we will call mystical hope. In contrast to our usual notions of hope:

• Mystical hope is not tied to a good outcome, to the future. It lives a life of its own, seemingly without reference to external circumstances and conditions.
• It has something to do with presence - not a future good outcome, but the immediate experience of being met, held in communion, by something intimately at hand.
• It bears fruit within us at the psychological level in the sensations of strength, joy, and satisfaction: an 'unbearable lightness of being.' But mysteriously, rather than deriving these gifts from outward expectations being met, it seems to produce them from within.”            - Cynthia Bourgeault, Mystical Hope

With everything that is going on in our individual lives and the world it is easy to lose touch with the hope so desperately needed at this time. During this contemplative retreat we will explore the teachings of Cynthia Bourgeault from her important book 'Mystical Hope.' These teachings will be surrounded with a rhythm of silence, chanting, centering prayer, conscious work, reflection, movement, attention exercises, and sharing from the heart.

This contemplative retreat is part of Trinity's Lenten offerings. It is for all those interested in continuing to return to and draw on this other kind of hope, to be this kind of hope, and offer this kind of hope to this weary and frightened world. Although reading the book is recommended, it is not necessary for participation.

Details

When: Friday, April 1st 7:00 - 8:30 pm and Saturday, April 2nd 8:30 am - 6:00 pm (please arrive 5-10 minutes before the session begins as we will start promptly)

Where: Trinity Episcopal Church

*Proof of vaccination or negative test required

Cost: $75 *Scholarships available upon request

tea, coffee, and snacks provided, as well as lunch from Organic Soup Kitchen (for every meal we eat, a meal will be provided for low-income seniors and other individuals with cancer or chronic illness)

Sign up: below 

Further questions: contact Faye Cox at faye.cox@me.com or Heather Ruce at heather@heatherruce.com

Facilitator: Heather Ruce, MA, a long time student of Cynthia Bourgeault. She works with individuals in Wisdom Spiritual Direction and facilitates contemplative wisdom practice circles, groups, retreats, and wisdom schools. She offers teaching and guidance in various wisdom and mindfulness practices including Centering Prayer, Christian meditation, sacred chanting, lectio divina, conscious work and embodiment. She has a M.A. Marital and Family Therapy from Bethel University.