Spiritual Development - Diocese of Kootenay
LONGING FOR GOD...
Dear Companions in Christ,
In conversations over several years I have heard people say things like, “Do you know where I could learn more about Christian prayer?”, “Where can I find a spiritual director?”, “What is the difference between prayer and meditation?”, “I think I would like to take a retreat, but I am not sure I know where to begin.” The new committee for the Diocese brings together people with experience in and a passion for the Christian spiritual life, who are willing to give leadership for developing such opportunities for people in our diocese. Jane Bourcet (Vernon), Marcella Mugford (Nelson), Nancy Scott (Sorrento), and Brian Smith (Salmon Arm) have been engaged in a lively conversation about Spiritual development in Kootenay. Each of them has brought a conviction about the central importance of Christian spiritual practice to our lives of faith and a commitment to their own faith journeys. They are both pilgrims and guides. I have been privileged to be part of the discussions. They have identified the following goals:
- To promote and coordinate resources to support spiritual development in congregations and individuals.
- To uphold the importance of spiritual direction and to develop a list of recommended spiritual directors and retreat leaders.
- To encourage the development of small groups dedicated to study, prayer and deepening spirituality.
The Canadian theologian, Gregory Baum, once described prayer as “the silent readiness to be addressed”. Often in the silence of our hearts we sense a longing for something more, a desire to draw closer to God, or a question that seems to linger in the back of our minds. That “niggle” is often the beginning of a call to us - a readiness to be open to God’s desire to be in closer relationship with us. That can be the start of a great adventure in what one author has called the “outer regions of inner space”! It can be the drawing into a more conscious and vital experience of the One who seeks to call us friends.
On this webpage you will find information on workshops and spiritual directors, suggested books, and contact information. If you would like further information you may wish to speak directly to one of the Spiritual Development Committee:
- Jane Bourcet in Vernon email: janebourcet@shaw.ca
- Marcella Mugford in Nelson email: bshalom@netidea.com
- Nancy Scott in Sorrento: email: turtle@lynx.net
- Brian Smith in Salmon Arm: email: bmsmith@xplornet.ca
May the Source of all our lives guide and uphold you in your journey of faith and in your desire to grow more deeply in the unending love of God.
Faithfully,
Archbishop John Privett
Workshops PLEASE NOTE: The April 9, 2011 workshop has been cancelled.
See links page for information about retreat centres.