Brethren spiritual directors hold fourth annual retreat.

The Church of the Brethren Spiritual Director's Network held its fourth annual retreat May 16-18 at Shepherd's Spring, the outdoor ministry center of Mid-Atlantic District. Carolynne Ervin, who teaches spiritual direction at Chestnut Hill College in Philadelphia, provided leadership on the topic, "Working with People's Faith Experiences in Spiritual Direction."

Through a series of presentations and personal exercises, Ervin led the group in understanding "how a contemplative heart notices, evokes, discerns, and responds to religious experience." The 22 participants, all trained as spiritual directors, were encouraged "to attune themselves to God and those who come to them for direction. Directees are sharing the music of their lives. Help them be open to these religious experiences. Help them find God in all things," Ervin said.

A highlight of the retreat was a 20-hour Sabbath time of shared silence. Believing that God works in both words and silence, participants were led to creative expression and a simple noticing of the Spirit's leading. A time of group spiritual direction helped each to find words to express God's interaction in his or her life through prayer.

A new brochure on spiritual direction was introduced by the Advisory Committee. "About Spiritual Direction" has been developed to introduce Church of the Brethren members to this ancient prayer tradition. Written by Glenn Mitchell and Kathy Geisewite, the brochure answers such questions as: What is spiritual direction? Who seeks it? Who gives spiritual direction? How can I find a spiritual director? Copies are available from Chris Douglas of the General Board staff; e-mail cdouglas_gb@brethren.org or call 800-323-8039 ext. 297. Members of the Spiritual Director's Network are available to offer spiritual direction to clergy and laity in the Church of the Brethren.

Source: 6/22/2005 Newsline
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