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PERCEIVING THE ARC:
Exploring One's Legacy
A Spiritual Writing Retreat

As one progresses through life, it is not unusual to wonder how one fits into the larger arc of one's family, occupation, community or some other context.
Poet Wendell Berry writes:

I wake
thinking of the ones who once
were here, some I know,
others I know by stories
told and retold...
~from Sabbaths 2002

Wendell's poem hints at one meaning of the term "legacy"-- stories of one's life that are told and retold. Another defines legacy as the "footprints we leave behind." And writer Barbara Kingsolver tells of the joy of being in her family's homeland and watching her children discover her "own best secrets." That is legacy too.

However you define the term, it is important to ask:
*What is your legacy?
*What are those stories that will be told and retold about you and your life?
*What are the "footprints" you are leaving behind?
*What are your "own best secrets" that others can discover?

This retreat invites you to examine the arc of your life and its stories and to consider how you can represent those as a legacy for others. Depending on your particular situation, this might involve writing, but it can also involve other forms of expression such as photography or music. No prior experience is needed for this retreat; we only ask that you bring a desire to reflect upon and represent your legacy for others.

The day will consist of a rhythm of prayer, silence, instruction, reflection and writing or other forms of expression. Our goal is to create a supportive space and to offer some valued time for you to listen to your creative inner voice that is yearning to speak.

Date: Saturday August 7, 2010
Location: Christos Center (directions)
Time: 9:00 am-4:00 pm
Cost: $55
(bring a bag lunch-snacks provided)
Registration deadline: August 1st
Send payment with registration
(Retreat is limited to 15 participants)

Facilitators:
Steve Simmons, Professor Emeritus in Agronomy and Plant Genetics, U of Minn
Kathleen O'Donovan, Edu Specialist, U of Minn

For complete retreat information and to register-- download a flyer
questions: janetchristoscenter@msn.com 651-653-8207

 

 

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CHRISTMAS QUIET 2009

Michael Finch prepares for the Service

Conversation and Refreshments following