The Community of Reconciliation Update
January 28, 2010
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“Those who have been thrown upon the mercy of the world are the gauge of our open hearts.” Haiti: In Whatever Way I Am Able 
Like lesser Olympian gods we peer from our television sky-portals—witnessing a vast and unfolding devastation. The sheer distance from our vantage point to the unfathomable suffering in Haiti can cloud our way forward—Where do I give? The magnitude of suffering can diffuse our action—How can I help? We stare in disbelief from half an ocean away, wondering—What shall I do? And from across the centuries Saint Benedict answers— Be Christ in whatever way you are able. If you are an aid worker, your task seems clear. But what if you are a stay at home dad? A teacher, a pediatrician, an engineer, a banker, a museum director, caregiver for an aging parent? The way of Benedict eliminates delay and indecision through its very practicality. If there is a way to give, then give. If there is a way to go, then go. If there is an option to help, then help. The practicality of Benedict assumes that we regularly address the needs of the poor. And thus, we will have ready access to the networks most able to assist. Benedict trusts that we set our intention to participate in the world as part of networks greater than our own. We rely on the gifts and skills of others to address the needs of the weakest among us. And always, always, always, we make ourselves available. The way of Benedict assumes the best about us—we are Christ as we feed the poor, so the specifics are left to us. This freedom is part of our creativity, our relationships, our community, our referrals, and recommendations. We rely on the wisdom of the community as we give, but never at the dismissal of that which lies before us. Benedict assures us that there is always something we can do. The rhythms of Benedictine life form us in the way of practical action in the world. The way forward in Haiti will be one of practicality partnered with the amazing scope of creativity and resources of all who will put their hands to the task of rebuilding. A rebuilding that engages wisdom, creativity, and practicality. The Sunday following the earthquake, at Strength through Unity—L’Union fait la Force: A Service of Prayer for Haiti, the Cathedral gathered thousands to set an intention to do what is before us, in whatever way we can. The following prayer from the service illuminates our way forward—I will give, in whatever way I am able. We grow together in the learning. Peace on the journey, Greg A Prayer for Haiti Gracious God, We encourage you to support relief efforts through your networks of preferred organizations. If you are not certain of a place to give, we encourage you to make a donation through Episcopal Relief and Development » The Haitian Embassy urges you to consider donating cash as opposed to in-kind donations. Visit the Haitian Embassy’s website » Listening, Hearing, and Living The Practice of Recreation with Tim Carrington  How are we to rest our mind, body, and spirit in a world that constantly insists on attention to the urgent? What does the way of Benedict have to teach us about renewal, laughter, play, and intention? How can rest become part of the fabric of our daily living? Can play become a part of our lives? What might our children teach us about the way of recreation? Join Tim Carrington, president of board of the Friends of Saint Benedict and journalist, parent, consultant, and development specialist with the World Bank as we explore Benedict’s approach to recreation of body, mind, and spirit. This vital practice offers balance that grounds our spiritual lives, our relationships, and our livelihoods. This profoundly simple approach to recreation can center us in God as we seek to foster reconciliation in the world. • Learn more and purchase tickets » Mid-Winter Monastic Quiet Day Saturday, February 20, 2010, 7 AM  Monastic Quiet days offer a unique opportunity to experience transformational rhythms experienced in monastic communities in the midst of our own daily living. Using a simple guide for guidance and reflection, participants begin their practice of silence on Friday evening in their own homes. Saturday morning participants convene at the Cathedral—gathering for 7:30 am Eucharist, followed by breakfast, periods for reflection, and lunch—all in silence. The afternoon includes time for prayer, meditation, reflection, and short learning sessions for response and sharing, and concludes with Evening Prayer in the great choir of the Cathedral.  Led by Kurt Aschermann, president of Charity Partners Foundation, active contemplative, and former senior vice president of the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, and Greg Finch, director of the Community of Reconciliation at Washington National Cathedral. • Learn more and purchase tickets » Stay Connected The Community is refining our database to better serve every participant. If you have not already done so, would you take two minutes right now to update your contact information using the link below? Your action will save hours of research that can be put to good use in the Community. Thank you in advance! Subscribe to the Community e-newsletter and stay up to date on Community of Reconciliation news and events. 
Holiday and Inclement Weather Schedule The Cathedral holiday schedule aligns with the federal government schedule for holidays and inclement weather, with some exceptions. We do this to reduce confusion and to honor the work of all of our security and maintenance colleagues. In the event of inclement weather we err on the side of safety, so never place yourself at risk! Visit the Cathedral website for a complete calendar for the upcoming year by clicking here » Constellation Event: Beauty and Imagination as a Way to God a retreat with Esther deWaal Holy Cross Monastery, West Park NY 12493  Participants will focus on the roles image and symbol play in deepening our understanding of God. Special attention will be paid to Welsh religious poetry, medieval monastic architecture and stained glass, and to the way Thomas Merton used the camera as a way to contemplation. For more information or to register contact Lori in the Guesthouse at 845.384.6600 x3002 “Life is a way of walking through the universe whole and holy.” —Margaret Guenther |
Please consider the environment before printing this email. Radical Balance and Reconciliation Wherever you find yourself along your spiritual journey, balance in life and reconciliation in the world can be an increasing part of your life. Anchored by gatherings and resources at Washington National Cathedral, we pray and listen for the divine in our midst, share and explore spiritual wisdom, rest and renew our bodies and spirit, explore and engage our work in the world, and joyfully welcome and encourage those along our journey. • Learn more and purchase tickets » To learn more, view a calendar of events, and access audio and video resources for your spiritual growth, click here » Stay connected To update your contact info click here » Or contact us at Quick Links Make a gift now » Direct link to Community web page » |