FEBRUARY
When Our Hearts Are Wintry: How Do We Practice When We Don’t Feel Like Practicing
Lisa Cressman
Thu., Feb. 9, 7-9p
$25
Whether one’s primary spiritual practice is lectio divina, centering prayer, writing, or another form of meditation, there will be times when the heart is wintry. This session explores wisdom from the Christian tradition about renewing and maintaining one’s openness to the movements of God. Register online.
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Hermitage Experience
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Feb. 10, 7p to Sun., Feb. 12, 1p
$150
After a common orientation, participants spend the weekend in silence as they read, pray, meditate, and rest in the hospitality of the monastery. Limit 10 participants. Register online.
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iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Jackie Witter
Fri., Feb. 17, 9:30a-3p
$30
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Feb. 17, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Shape of the Divine: Working with Clay as Spiritual Practice
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Mondays, 6:30-8:30p, Feb. 20 thru Mar. 26
$150
Under the direction of an experienced potter and gentle teacher, learn how making hand-built vessels can be a process of meditation. Cost includes materials. Register online.
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Benedict on Prayer Series
BC Staff
Tuesdays, 7-8:30p, Feb. 21 thru Mar. 27
$75 for series; $20 for single evenings
For Benedict and throughout centuries, prayer has been the core of monastic life and community. In this series of six evenings, the staff of the Benedictine Center guides participants through an experience of Benedict’s key insights on prayer and discipleship. Each evening ends with Compline with the monastic community. Attend all or one. Those new and experienced with Benedictine prayer welcome.
Click here to register for the series or click the titles to register for one event.
Feb. 21 Come and Pray As the Bell Tolls: Explore God’s Call and the Human Response (S. Virginia Matter OSB and Sam Rahberg OblOSB)
Feb. 28 The Work of God: Unearth the riches of the Liturgy of the Hours (Jackie Witter)
Mar. 6 Scripture and Prayer in the Rule of St. Benedict: See how the biblical vision of discipleship influenced Benedict’s teaching and leadership (S. Virginia Matter OSB)
Mar. 13 Acedia and Prayer: Be encouraged by insight for those who are restless and having difficulty working or praying (Jackie Witter)
Mar. 20 Psalms: Enter the heart of Benedictine prayer for the sake of the world (S. Carol Rennie OSB)
Mar. 27 The Way of Lent: Envision a life attending to the presence of God (S. Carol Rennie OSB and Sam Rahberg OblOSB)
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Feb. 27, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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MARCH
Introduction to Centering Prayer
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Mar. 2, 9a-2:30p
$50
This ancient spiritual practice is a Christian way of meditating that teaches one how to listen for God’s invitation to deeper relationship. Register online.
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Steadfast: Living the Benedictine Sense of Stability
Abbot John Klassen
Fri., Mar. 9, 7p to Sun., Mar. 11, 1p
$200 includes lodging and meals Fri thru Sun;
$100 commuters Fri thru Sun;
$35 for Fri eve only
The Benedictine commitment to stability has stood the test of time, continuing to serve as a clarion call amid society’s clamor for consumption and relentless activity. Abbot John Klassen OSB of Saint John’s Abbey will explore stability as a keystone of Benedictine spirituality and indispensable aspect of Christian discipleship. A Friday evening lecture is open to the public and introduces broad themes. Register for Friday evening only or register for the entire weekend (overnight or commuting) as Abbot John continues to unpack the riches of Benedict’s lasting insights on stability. Space is limited.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Mar. 16, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Bio Spiritual Focusing Basics
S. Virginia Matter OSB and S. Joanne Dehmer SSND
Fri., Mar. 23, 8:15a-5p
$135
Focusing is a simple and natural process that teaches us how to accept ourselves by listening to our “body knowing” rather than to the messages and problem-solving of our head alone. By showing us practical steps to listen to our body, Focusing helps us to be with ourselves as we really are and not as we imagine we ought to be. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Mar. 26, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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APRIL
Triduum Retreat with Spiritual Direction
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Thu., Apr. 5, 6p to Sat., Apr. 7, 9p
$160
Join the Benedictine community in celebrating these holiest days of the Christian year and in deepening your appreciation of the narratives, symbols, and lived experience of Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Holy Saturday. The schedule includes worship, group spiritual direction, rest, and free time. You will have the option of one on one spiritual direction and will be home again for Easter Sunday. Register online.
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RB 72: Good Zeal
S. Jacqueline Leiter OSB
Tue., Apr. 17, 7-9p
$25
Saint Benedict emphasized the spirit of community in one short chapter near the end of The Rule. This session explores the good zeal, “preferring nothing whatsoever to Christ”, as love made visible by mutual respect, support, and patience. Register online.
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Taizé Day of Reflection
Sam Rahberg OblOSB
Fri., Apr. 20, 10a-8p
$40
A time of reflection flowing into the celebration of Taizé prayer. This month’s reflection is anchored by an illumination from the Saint John’s Bible. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Apr. 20, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Our Hearts Were Burning Within Us: What Does it Mean to Believe in a Secular Age?
Fr. Michael Byron
Sat., Apr. 21, 9a-12p
$30
In the days after the Resurrection, the Gospels describe the hearts of Jesus’ disciples burning within them. Join scholar and pastor Fr. Michael Byron to explore what it means to believe in a secular age and rekindle the zeal of faith in Christ. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Apr. 23, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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In Others’ Words: A Reflection on Music and Prayer with Katy Wehr
Katy Wehr
Tue., Apr. 24, 7-9p
$20
What is the relationship between music and prayer, or what could it be? Local musician Katy Wehr will explore this theme in an open discussion with attendees interspersed with her own music, especially her most recent album, "In Others' Words" which sets classic spiritual poems and prayers to original melodies. In the second half of the evening, Wehr and accompanying musicians will present a full set of acoustic folk music to further explore how music gives voice to prayer and the experience of God. Cost includes a free CD. Register online.
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MAY
Taizé Prayer
Fri., May 18, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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The Welcoming Prayer: Attending to What Is
Meredith Schifsky
Sat., May 19, 9a-3:30p
$45
The Welcoming Prayer is a practice of “letting go” in the present moments of daily life. The ordinary routines of daily life present emotional challenges that drain the reservoir of interior silence that we establish through a regular practice of contemplative prayer. The Welcoming Prayer practice helps us respond instead of react when we meet such challenges. Participants will learn and practice “letting go” and letting the Spirit work in the present moment, becoming less conflicted by anxieties, fears, anger and other afflictive emotions. Supports other forms of prayer, including lectio divina, centering prayer, and more. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., May 28, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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JUNE
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Fri., Jun. 8, 9:30a-3p
$30 includes lunch and materials
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical
days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the
wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they
illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include
theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal
prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation
with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Jun. 15, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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School of Lectio Reunion
S. Virginia Matter OSB and S. Carol Rennie OSB
Fri., Jun. 22, 7p to Sun., Jun. 24, 1p
$125
A time for alums of any School of Lectio Divina to renew their practice and be refreshed by the rhythm of prayer, quiet, and conversation at St. Paul’s Monastery. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Jun. 25, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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JULY
2012A School of Lectio Divina
S. Meg Funk OSB
Fri., Jul. 6, 1p to Wed., Jul. 11, 1p
$700
The Benedictine Center of St. Paul’s Monastery is offering the School of Lectio Divina to adapt the ancient monastic riches of sustained lectio divina to contemporary people. Through an intensive retreat experience set in the rhythm of life at St. Paul’s Monastery, participants receive teaching about lectio, spend time meditating on a sacred text significant for them, have the opportunity for individual spiritual direction, and participate in reflective conversation with other participants. In addition, the Center will provide a variety of on-going support activities and resources after the retreat participants make sustained lectio core to individual prayer and spiritual development. Limit 15. Download materials below or email benedictinecenter@stpaulsmonastery.org.
Click here for a description of the School of Lectio Divina.
Click here for a PDF copy of the application form.
Click here for a Word copy of the application form.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Jul. 20, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Jul. 23, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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Creating and Holding A Space: Insights from Group Spiritual Direction
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Thu., Jul. 26, 9a-1p
$30
S. Carol Rennie OSB is committed to and experienced in drawing others into conversation that helps each person become more attentive to the movements of God. Participants in this session will gain insights into creating and holding a space for meaningful conversation. Ideal for those working with small groups, group spiritual direction, and other more intentional conversations around the spiritual life. Includes lunch. Register online.
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Lectio Pilgrimage to Saint John’s Abbey
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Fri., Jul. 27, 7p to Sun., Jul. 29, 2p
$250
The retreat begins at St. Paul’s Monastery with an introduction to key texts that have been brilliantly illuminated in The Saint John’s Bible. The next day, retreatants travel to Saint John’s Abbey where they will continue their meditation on the texts with the original illuminations. After spending the night at the Abbey Guesthouse, they return to the monastery for Eucharist and brunch. Participation limited by accommodations; shared lodging welcomed, but not necessary. Registration deadline Jun. 30. Register online.
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AUGUST
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Day
Fri., Aug. 10, 9:30a-3p
$30 includes lunch and materials
iLLUMINARE Ministry Renewal Days are ecumenical
days of reflection for full-time and volunteer ministers (lay and ordained) that draw on Scripture and the
wisdom of the Christian tradition to reflect on as they
illuminate the practice of ministry. The days include
theological reflection, lectio divina, time for personal
prayer and reflection, brief presentations, and conversation
with other ministers. Guests new to iLLUMINARE are welcome. Register online.
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Taizé Day of Reflection
S. Carol Rennie OSB
Fri., Aug. 17, 10a-8p
$40
A time of reflection flowing into the celebration of Taizé prayer. This month’s reflection explores the universal, contemporary, and timeless nature of the psalms. They are treasured songs of the heart. Register online.
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Taizé Prayer
Fri., Aug. 17, 7-8p
Taizé prayer uses simple chants based on the Scriptures
and periods of silence to create an environment for
encountering the mystery of God. Walk-ins welcome.
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Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina Retreat
S. Virginia Matter OSB
Fri., Aug. 17, 7p to Wed., Aug. 22, 1p
$375 includes lodging and meals; $180 thru Sunday only
Experience a time of profound silence and praying the Scriptures as you enter into deeper relationship with God and self. Blends a rhythm of centering prayer, lectio divina, and prayer with the monastic community. $180 through Sunday only. Register online.
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Men’s Contemplative Spirituality Group
Mon., Aug. 27, 7-9p
Freewill Offering
This time of prayer and conversation is for men seeking to integrate contemplative spirituality into their active lives. The evening includes time with Scripture and silent prayer, as well as dialogue about men’s spirituality and personal experience. No experience with contemplative prayer is necessary. Walk-ins welcome.
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