There are three different opportunities in the next weeks for anyone interested in learning more about Benedictine spirituality. Two occur on Saturday, October 1st and the third occurs on Saturday, October 8th. All three are open to anyone seeking to know more about the Rule of Saint Benedict, the use of Benedictine spirituality in daily life and the resources available in the greater Atlanta area.
The Monastery of the Holy Spirit Grand Open House and Celebration
The Monastery of the Holy Spirit will host a free all-day Open House and Celebration on Saturday, October 1st from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. This event celebrates the new Monastic Heritage Center and the many other improvements made at the monastery for the visitor or inquirer alike. They encourage us to attend, if possible, and the day will conclude with a 90 minute evening concert by the Atlanta Sacred Chorale in the Abbey Church (which may require tickets so contact the monastery for more information by phone at 770-483-8705). All are invited to explore the newly opened Monastic Heritage Center featuring: Interactive Museum, Abbey Gift Shop, Bonsai Garden, Café, Bonsai Store and Bonsai Pottery Sales, Memorial Plaza and Prayer Walk.
Trellis of Saint Benedictine Spirituality
Building on the momentum and richness of a previous seminar offered by the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta regarding author and speaker Jane Tomaine's St. Benedict's Toolbox, the Commission on Spiritual Growth in the Episcopal Diocese of Atlanta, is offering a follow-up discussion on Saturday, October 1st from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm at St. Benedict's Episcopal Church, 2160 Cooper Lake Road, Smyrna. A light lunch will be provided. At this first "Trellis Group" discussion, participants will explore ways in which they can form supportive groups for accountability and reflection on the Rule of St. Benedict around the diocese. This opportunity will gather and share information that will enable participants to keep the conversation and the experience going forward. Contact the Rev. Stuart Higginbotham, chair, the Diocesan Commission on Spiritual Growth, at Stuart@MySaintB.org or 404-788-9365 to make a reservation or for more information.
Ecumenical Lay Associates (Oblates) Monthly Gathering
Remember too that we will be gathering in community at the Monastery of the Holy Spirit the following Saturday, October 8th. Our Saturday gathering day schedule follows, but may vary month to month in content:
9:30 am-Begin to Gather in retreat house, the grounds.
10:00 am-Welcome, open with prayer-LAUDS, introductions and greetings
10:15 am-Discussion/study St. Benedict, assigned texts, guest speaker
11:00 am-Break: meditation, visit Abbey bookstore and Bonsai Greenhouse, walk grounds, pray, offer direction and hospitality to visitors
11:30 am-all, lectio divina in retreat house meeting room
12:00 pm-silent break, then make your way to the church
Noon Prayers (12:20) Abbey Church in Choir stalls
Those who wish may stay for lunch at 12:45. If you want to stay for lunch (which is good), you need to make a reservation with me a week ahead. Most everyone does stay for lunch. It is $5.00. There is also a cafe in the monastic heritage center (bookstore, museum, plant store).
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