My Spirit Rejoices: Advent Retreat
December 6 & 7

Divine Scripture calls to us saying: Whoever exalts himself shall be humbled, and whoever humbles himself shall be exalted (Luke 14:11; 18:14). In saying this, therefore, it shows us that every exaltation is a kind of pride, which the Prophet indicates he has shunned, saying: Lord, my heart is not exalted; my eyes are not lifted up and I have not walked in the ways of the great nor gone after marvels beyond me (Ps 130[131]:1).  Rule of St. Benedict Ch 7

This Advent you are invited to meditate on a profound statement of humilty - The Magnificat. The Song of Mary is found in the early verses of the Gospel of Luke and provides us with a picture of meekness and a posture for life.  "Many have the mistaken notion that humility has to do with low self-esteem or never thinking positively about one's self. Rather, humility is a right perspective. It acknowledges that God is God, and I am not. If we did not have gifts from God, we could never magnify the Lord so that others could see the wonders God does." (Sutera, Advent and Christmas, 58)

During this retreat we will dive deeply into the beauty of Mary's song by meditating on the Word and spending time in quiet prayer and reflection. We will worship together and have fellowship in community as we discuss living in a posture of humility. Reflecting on the skills and gifts God has given us, we will discuss how our life can magnify the Lord.

RATES
Retreat program and meals $103

Overnight Accommodations
King's Inn Private room $129
King's Inn Shared room $82

Commuters may add breakfast for $14

REGISTER HERE

Tentative Agenda

Friday, December 6th

2:00 - Optional pre-retreat workshops: Holy Yoga, Lectio Divina
3:00 - Check in rooms, refreshments
4:00 - Optional workshop: Make your own prayer rope
5:00 - Evening Prayer
5:15 - Introduction: Of one another and the retreat
6:00 - Dinner
7:00- The Song of Mary: Deepening our understanding through lectio
8:30 - Compline
8:45 - Retire to your room or social time

Saturday, December 7th

8:00 - Breakfast
9:00 - Morning  Prayer
9:15 - Reflection: Extended lectio & journaling
10:45 - Break
11:00 - Magnify the Lord: Using our gifts to bring Glory to God
12:00- Lunch
1:00- Reflection & Discussion
2:00 - Holy Eucharist
3:00 - Depart

 This retreat will be led by members of the Albany Blooms Thriving parish Initative Team