“The Lord will come and he will not delay.” (Cf. Habakkuk 2:3) Advent is about waiting and preparing for the coming of Jesus; commemorating his birth and first coming and also anticipating the second coming of Christ. But our Christian faith tells us that God is with us, already and still. This holy season also invites us to encounter God in the present, in the day-to-day of our lives.
Set aside some personal time for this and join us for a quiet day of prayer this Advent; a season of both hopeful waiting and encountering God who is ever present. The day will begin with reflective input by Sister Bernie , followed by time for private prayer and reflection, lunch in silence, the option of walking the labyrinth or beautiful grounds (weather permitting), journaling or just relaxing with God. The atmosphere for the day will be reverent silence, which allows us to more deeply encounter God and be attuned to God’s promptings. There will be the opportunity to attend liturgy, if you wish, and lunch is included in this retreat day. The day will close with us coming together to name the blessings of the day and for a closing prayer. This will be a day of silence.
Sister Bernadette Claps, a Sister of Bon Secours, provides spiritual direction and spiritual companionship at the Retreat and Conference Center. She holds graduate certificates in Spiritual Direction, Spirituality and Aging. She has done graduate studies in theology and received a Master of Social Work from New York University. Sr. Bernie is also the Director of Formation for the Sisters of Bon Secours.