Word and Silence, Curiosity and Pondering
So much depends on how we look at things. The quality of our looking determines what we come to see. ~John O’Donohue
In this season of Epiphany, we can begin our own journey to awakening (or maybe just to the edge of clarity). While we might not be riding camels or going across desert landscapes, we are all following a star — the true direction our heart longs to take us. Sometimes we need companions. Sometimes we need direction. Sometimes we need to leave home for a while and explore.
Daily writing can help move us through the stages of wonder. We begin with a word or a thought and then let it bloom; we receive the gift of a ‘new thing’ — something we hadn’t noticed before.
During this retreat, we will practice contemplative silence together, complemented with reflections that invite us to practice looking and seeing with curiosity. Writing prompts will be offered, and we will write and share as we feel led. Facilitator Debra Donnelly-Barton and special guest Linda Mastro invite you to join them on a pilgrimage into paying attention in a new way.
Check-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend.
Debra Donnelly-Barton, MA has led pilgrimages, workshops and retreats across the country for several Christian denominations. She has a private practice in Spiritual Direction, which informs all her ministries, emphasizing deep listening with others for whispers of the Spirit. Debra is a seminary trained Spiritual Director with 30 years of experience. She has studied at Stillpoint, Sewanee, University of the South, and General Theological Seminary in New York. Her master’s degree in Theology is from the Ecumenical Institute, St. Mary’s Seminary & University. She is a Doctor of Ministry candidate in Creative Writing and Public Theology. Debra writes a daily meditation, which she shares through social media.
Linda Mastro is a graduate of the Bon Secours Spiritual Direction Institute in Marriottsville, Maryland, where she now serves as a faculty member. In addition to being an Associate of Bon Secours, Linda is a spiritual companion for individuals and groups and brings a spirit of compassion and light-heartedness to her work as a women’s retreat facilitator, pilgrimage leader, and workshop guide. Linda is co-author of the book Petite Retreats: Renewing Body, Mind, and Spirit Without Leaving Home. Learn more about Linda and her ministry at LivingPilgrimage.com.