Hildegard of Bingen, the 12th century mystic and saint, offers us an image of the Wheel of Life that connects all creation in God’s embrace. In an age where the forces of greed, fear, and anger seek to divide us into camps and categories that can be pitted against each other, Hildegard takes her place in the long line of mystics, from many faith traditions, who seek to nurture union and connection. In her writing The Book of Divine Works, she dares to reflect on a vision she has had of God’s presence in all of life:
I, the highest and fiery power, have kindled every living spark and I have breathed out nothing that can die. But I determine how things are–I have regulated the circuit of the heavens by flying around its revolving track with my upper wings–that is, with Wisdom. But I am also the fiery life of the divine essence–I flame above the beauty of the fields; I shine in the waters; in the sun, the moon, and the stars, I burn. And by means of the airy wind, I stir everything into quickness with a certain invisible life which sustains all. (trans. Carver).
Hildegard’s word that sought to describe this connecting life force of all existence is viriditas, the greening and life-giving presence and principle that exists within all life. Her words, rooted in such a powerful tradition, continue to speak to us today as we grapple with division and struggle to imagine ways to nurture connection among all aspects of humanity.
The Power of Presence retreat is an offering that seeks to nurture this awareness of our connection. By bringing together diverse faith leaders from the community to reflect on how we understand this indwelling presence that unites us, perhaps we can regain a bit of hope–and be rejuvenated in our own vocation to embody light in the world.
River Guerguerian, a world-renowned percussionist from Asheville, will lead an experiential workshop.
Dr. Park’s presentation will focus on the neurological impacts of the practice of fire watching as connected with the Biblical account of Moses encountering the “burning bush.”
Fr. Stuart’s presentation will focus on practices of prayer and poetic imagination, drawing on selections from his forthcoming collection of poetry, Bones of Light: Poems of Spiritual Imagination.
We will have a henna artist available for those who want to share in this beautiful practice. Also, we will share in constructing our own Community Peace Quilt, writing prayers and messages of peace on fabric that will then be gathered into a quilt to embody our intentions of fostering community compassion.
You are invited to share in this time of reflection, poetry, prayer, and deeply moving music and rhythm as we continue to listen for that common heartbeat that unites us all.
COST The cost of this retreat is $25, which includes lunch. If you are a full-time student, please indicate that on the registration form and Grace will cover your fee.
REGISTRATION
