Because of schedule conflicts for some members, we have switched our September Novices in the School of Love, (NSL), meeting from this Wednesday, 9/22/21, to next week Wednesday, 9/29/21.
We will meet IN PERSON here:
Orchard View Church of God
2777 Leffingwell Ave NE
Grand Rapids, MI 49525
Time: From 7:00-9:00 PM.
Last month, we began trying some new ideas about what we want our meetings to consist of. We tried introducing a bit more prayer. Instead of the usual 2-3 minutes of silent meditation to open each meeting. we replaced it with a Psalm read aloud – followed by a few minutes of silent reflection.
We listened to the lyrics of a song: “I Miss My Time With You”, about God’s spiritual relationship with us, (or lack thereof).
We prayed Compline together, (one of the “hours” of the monastic Divine Office.)
All this, in addition to our usual discussion of Chapter 9 of Fr. Michael Casey’s book.
Then, we experienced a VERY interesting discussion on the source of spiritual inspiration.
We also had some wonderful snacks and fellowship, and our closing, as usual, with Pastor Mike leading us in the Lord’s prayer.
We are stretching our wings as a group, to become a prayer community as well as a study community of monastic devotees. I must say I thought our first effort that evening went very well, and we are off to a good start in this inspired new direction.
Next week, we will likely continue this arrangement to see if it continues to suit our needs. We will invite members to read a Psalm, (or Psalms), aloud, as they feel the inspiration.
We will try to discuss Fr. Casey’s last two chapters of Living In the Truth (Ch. 10 Restraint of Speech, and Ch.11 Integration and Transformation), as time allows.
We may pray Compline again, or we might try one of the other shorter midday “little hours” of the Divine Office, which would provide an opportunity for a few more Psalms or short scripture readings and silence.
We are taking a flexible approach to remain open to the Spirit’s direction in all of this.
We hope you will be able to join us for prayer, reflection, discussion, brainstorming, and simply enjoying each other’s presence, as well as a few delicious goodies, too!
Come with your questions, your suggestions, and especially your fervor and fraternal love.