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In the largest Women's Gathering to date, over 125 women from SJA came
together on a cold Saturday morning to be inspired, to meet one another, to
laugh and of course to eat good food. Every detail was taken care of – there were even bouquets of flowers on the landing of the stairway leading down to Hospitality Hall.
Our presenter for the morning was Mary Jo Kreitzer(brown blouse to the right), director of the Center for Spirituality and Healing at the University of Minnesota. Mary Jo guided our thinking on the inevitability and blessings of periods of chaos and disequilibrium in our lives. Sometimes it is only in chaos that we go deeper and come to creative new viewpoints. Even then, our smallest actions may have the "butterfly effect"...that of a rippling out from us to effect change in a way we may never expect or even know about in our lifetimes. Gentle actions can bring about great things!
We reflected on the question: “What is our transforming presence?” When we are truly present and listen deeply, it changes us and perhaps even transforms others. Some of us may have been somewhat taken aback to be asked to think about "What would you do if you were not afraid?" but the answers some chose to share were revealing and healing and inspiring.
Another question we asked ourselves: “How can we be a transforming presence in our Church today?” Many talked their commitment to staying in the Church, about speaking out, about seeking wisdom. Others spoke of the potential power of women leaving things “undone” in our Church for a day to highlight the gifts that would be absent were we not here. Some spoke with sadness, anger and pain about leaving the Church. We heard women describe the discernment that is always part of their faith journey as they intentionally choose to stay within the Church or leave. In the midst of all this, Mary Jo encouraged all to stay on the soul level. God created all of us, and is working with and through each of us.
There was quiet time to walk the beautiful painted labyrinth set up in the church or to write and reflect on the insights of the day. We closed with a
wonderful ritual led by Theresa Healy.
If you couldn't attend this time (or if you tried to register only to learn that the event was full), please save Friday evening April 25,
6-9 PM for the next Women's Gathering. The program and registration information will be announced shortly in the bulletin. You won't be disappointed – when the women of St. Joan of Arc come together, the Spirit moves in each of us and all of us in fresh and wonderful ways!
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