Community News & Reflections

The Community of Reconciliation

July 8, 2010

“The picture is one of confluence, of flowing together and mingling. Profoundly conscious of being the heirs of the past they felt a responsibility to propagate the wisdom accumulated by their predecessors to hand on to future generations. This was process that demanded creative skill, as we can see in the case of Benedict who had first read widely and then selected and unified, choosing what to bring together from a number of different sources. From this process have come that flexibility and generosity of spirit that is part of his genius, something that he wanted to transmit to his disciples.”

Esther deWaal, Seeking Life

REFLECTIONS

Shoulder Standing

From the Director

Ours is a grand inheritance.

Distilled from the wisdom of the centuries, the way of Benedict offers life-altering perspective as we stand upon shoulders, upon shoulders, upon shoulders of all who have lived these monastic rhythms. From this wisdom vantage point our journey is informed with grace and flexibility.

Behind us, the past serves as trustworthy guide. Around us, the present provides a dynamic laboratory of possibility. And ahead of us, the future unfolds to reveal a centered way of being that flourishes in the world.

GATHERINGS & EVENTS

2010-2011 Calendar Online

Visit the full calendar at www.nationalcathedral.org/community »

SUMMER PILGRIMAGE

Holy Work, Holy Leisure: Celebrating the Feast of St. Benedict

Saturday, July 10, 9:30 AM–noon

The Rule of Benedict has had a profound influence on religious life and spiritual practices in the western world since its writing more than 1400 years ago. Ora et labora—the Benedictine way of life balanced with work and prayer—offers inspiration and guidance to those individuals and communities seeking to be present to God in the midst of our busy lives.

Take a Saturday morning to experience the Benedictine teaching of “holy leisure.” Some highlights will include:

Contemplative walk through the woods and gardens
Guided meditation on the life and lessons of St. Benedict using the art and architecture of the Cathedral
Time for communal as well as individual prayer and reflection

Tickets: $30/$25. Buy tickets now »

SUMMER WORKSHOP

Creating a Life Rule Workshop

Saturday, July 10, noon–4:30 pm

Location: Cathedral Great Choir for Eucharist then Cathedral Library.

Throughout the sacred spaces and grounds of the cathedral, participants will reflect upon their lives and how they might bring these transformational foundations and rhythms into their own daily living. Periods of interactive instruction, exploration of the foundations of Saint Benedict’s Rule, silent and conversational reflection, and mutual encouragement will shape our learning. Bring a journal if you have one and your favorite writing materials! Register now »

LEARN AND GROW

State of the Community Address Online!

Listen to the recent State of the Community address and a full complement of online resources for support and encouragement. Click here »

BUILDING COMMUNITY

Our Work as Giving

Volunteering, Serving, and Giving

The way of Benedict reminds us that our work, our acts of charity, our financial resources, and our hospitality comprise our care for the very communities that renew us. Learn more about giving, volunteering, and serving alongside The Community of Reconciliation. Learn about opportunities to serve »

Make a donation now » Select the Community of Reconciliation button to direct your gift.

“Life is a way of walking through the universe whole and holy.” —Margaret Guenther

The Community of Reconciliation at
Washington National Cathedral
3101 Wisconsin Ave., N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20016

www.nationalcathedral.org/community
companions@cathedral.org | (202) 537-6217