Lectio Divina
A reality check, useful especially for night prayer and examination of conscience:
You are following a different way that pretends to be the Good News....
Galatians 1:6
Library
Continuing intermittently with the texts concerning Dorothy Day and the Catholic Worker, particularly in advance of an outing on Thursday from San Lorenzo to Beatitude House, the Catholic Worker community in Guadalupe, west of Santa Maria.
Log
Yesterday, Mass at St. Mark University Parish in Isla Vista on the campus of University of California-Santa Barbara. Then, cooking the evening meal, fettucine alfredo, but dairy-free; garlic bread; spinach and mushrooms sauteed in olive oil; and tossed salad. Despite the death of one of the two convection ovens and the blender, we made it to dinner time, albeit 15 minutes late (not on account of kitchen appliance malfunction, but my understimation of how long it takes for a large pot of water to boil!). Made way too much pasta, but at least everyone had their fill last night, and again at lunch this afternoon. Whatever is left over later this week, I will bring to Catholic Charities to share with the staff and volunteers on Friday. The key lime pies, made Saturday night, were a big hit (they're all gone); and the tofu pate I made for the appetizers was as popular as hummus, which guaranteed its swift disappearance.
This morning, gave my presentation on early monasticism with my small group. Many small compliments received for my teaching abilities, both for last week's presentation on Dorothy Day and today's. This afternoon, some light work on the November Caperone, and a brisk walk. This evening, a brief meeting of the schola, and prayerful silence before night prayer.
After several days of heightened classroom activities and more intense domestic duties, looking forward to stretching, relaxing, and entering into contemplative repose.
Weather
A delightful coolness throughout the day until the afternoon, when the warmth descended, delightful, too, in its own way. Praise be to God for blue skies and shining sun.
Monday, October 8, 2012
Saturday, October 6, 2012
Disown and Repent
Lectio Divina
I disown what I have said,
and repent in dust and ashes.
Job 42:6
Library
Finished reading A Church Reborn by the National Catholic Reporter. Once I am through with my next class assignment on early monasticism, I think I may turn my personal time toward study of the Second Vatican Council documents.
Log
This morning: a brief consultation with my editorial team on The Caperone. Also, the second meeting of the nutritionist with our fraternity on health and wellness. This afternoon, house chores and preparation for the small group presentation on early monasticism in class on Monday. This evening, getting an early start for the Sunday evening meal, with dessert and appetizer preparations.
Began the day in a pensive mood; in between and within the work that has to be done, I wish to remain there, even if it makes me a little cranky, as often happens when I try to surrender and think as God thinks. Oh, God, help me to disown frivolous talk (and frivolous deeds), be still, be silent, and do what you desire.
Weather
Yesterday I typed too soon: the faint breezes became great gusts during our commemoration of our deceased Franciscan ancestors at evening prayer. May that wind be at my back, and may I face the right direction so as to be carried along on the way God wills.
I disown what I have said,
and repent in dust and ashes.
Job 42:6
Library
Finished reading A Church Reborn by the National Catholic Reporter. Once I am through with my next class assignment on early monasticism, I think I may turn my personal time toward study of the Second Vatican Council documents.
Log
This morning: a brief consultation with my editorial team on The Caperone. Also, the second meeting of the nutritionist with our fraternity on health and wellness. This afternoon, house chores and preparation for the small group presentation on early monasticism in class on Monday. This evening, getting an early start for the Sunday evening meal, with dessert and appetizer preparations.
Began the day in a pensive mood; in between and within the work that has to be done, I wish to remain there, even if it makes me a little cranky, as often happens when I try to surrender and think as God thinks. Oh, God, help me to disown frivolous talk (and frivolous deeds), be still, be silent, and do what you desire.
Weather
Yesterday I typed too soon: the faint breezes became great gusts during our commemoration of our deceased Franciscan ancestors at evening prayer. May that wind be at my back, and may I face the right direction so as to be carried along on the way God wills.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Commitment
Lectio Divina
Looking ahead to the Sunday Gospel reading, the text we are using for our faith sharing this evening:
"Whoever divorces his wife and marries another
commits adultery against her."
Mark 10:11
Library
Reading A Church Reborn, the special issue published by the National Catholic Reporter on the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. This issue is indeed a keepsake; I'll share it, but I'll not part with it. Most of the time I believe firmly that I was meant for these times -- I was born into my age -- but when I read a retrospective like this one in NCR, sometimes I wish I had come of age and into the full powers of mature adulthood during the 1960s.
It is nearing the time for me to take up the adventure of discipleship with the people of God anew on a radically higher level. Time for a deeper, indissoluble commitment. That's why I am here; it's why I remain with the Capuchins.
Log
Today: ministry at Catholic Charities in Santa Maria. Unpacking food deliveries, sorting clothes. The work is light, and the day went quickly, with occasional conversations on matters spiritual and secular with staff and volunteers. But I won't lie: My mind and heart are looking to the horizon and the prospect of ministry at the federal prison in Lompoc.
This evening: our commemoration of all the deceased members of the global Franciscan family (always the day after the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi) culminates with a procession from our chapel to the cemetery for prayer, followed by meditation.
Weather
Cooler and cloudier, with faint breezes. But the warmth of the California sun remains under my skin, deep within my bones.
Looking ahead to the Sunday Gospel reading, the text we are using for our faith sharing this evening:
"Whoever divorces his wife and marries another
commits adultery against her."
Mark 10:11
Library
Reading A Church Reborn, the special issue published by the National Catholic Reporter on the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council. This issue is indeed a keepsake; I'll share it, but I'll not part with it. Most of the time I believe firmly that I was meant for these times -- I was born into my age -- but when I read a retrospective like this one in NCR, sometimes I wish I had come of age and into the full powers of mature adulthood during the 1960s.
It is nearing the time for me to take up the adventure of discipleship with the people of God anew on a radically higher level. Time for a deeper, indissoluble commitment. That's why I am here; it's why I remain with the Capuchins.
Log
Today: ministry at Catholic Charities in Santa Maria. Unpacking food deliveries, sorting clothes. The work is light, and the day went quickly, with occasional conversations on matters spiritual and secular with staff and volunteers. But I won't lie: My mind and heart are looking to the horizon and the prospect of ministry at the federal prison in Lompoc.
This evening: our commemoration of all the deceased members of the global Franciscan family (always the day after the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi) culminates with a procession from our chapel to the cemetery for prayer, followed by meditation.
Weather
Cooler and cloudier, with faint breezes. But the warmth of the California sun remains under my skin, deep within my bones.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Blessed Be You, for Brother Francis
Lectio Divina
Greatest of his family, the glory of his people ...
In whose time the house of God was renovated,
Sirach 50:1
Library
Rather than recite again what I am reading, here is some reading for you: the October issue of The Caperone.
Log
It is the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the religious movement I have chosen to join so as to be a better follower of Jesus. Peace and goodness, the true peace and goodness of Christ, be with you all. Let our worship Christ and reverence of Francis lead us into ever-greater love of God and one another, ever-greater practice of divine justice and mercy, and ever-greater life in the mystery of the kin(g)dom of heaven, here and now. Blessed be you, O God, for our Brother Francis.
This morning: morning prayer followed by a big breakfast prepared graciously by a few novice brothers who woke up before the sun got up. Off to Mass in a few moments, to be celebrated in high style. This afternoon, after lunch, a casual on site at San Lorenzo. This evening, prayer and a social and dinner with the fraternity at Old Mission Santa Ines.
Weather
Cloudy at first but clearing and brightening, as it always does.
Greatest of his family, the glory of his people ...
In whose time the house of God was renovated,
in whose days the temple was reinforced.
Sirach 50:1
Library
Rather than recite again what I am reading, here is some reading for you: the October issue of The Caperone.
Log
It is the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi, the founder of the religious movement I have chosen to join so as to be a better follower of Jesus. Peace and goodness, the true peace and goodness of Christ, be with you all. Let our worship Christ and reverence of Francis lead us into ever-greater love of God and one another, ever-greater practice of divine justice and mercy, and ever-greater life in the mystery of the kin(g)dom of heaven, here and now. Blessed be you, O God, for our Brother Francis.
This morning: morning prayer followed by a big breakfast prepared graciously by a few novice brothers who woke up before the sun got up. Off to Mass in a few moments, to be celebrated in high style. This afternoon, after lunch, a casual on site at San Lorenzo. This evening, prayer and a social and dinner with the fraternity at Old Mission Santa Ines.
Weather
Cloudy at first but clearing and brightening, as it always does.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
A Departure
Lectio Divina
Should one wish to contend with him,
he could not answer him once in a thousand times.
Job 9:3
Library
Continuing to read Dorothy Day, even though I have given my presentation with the small group today. The Catholic Worker movement continues to inform my understand of the Capuchin Franciscan charism to minority.
Log
This morning at the conclusion of Mass, one of the novices announced he is leaving the Capuchin formation program. He was gone by nine-thirty. God be with him on his journey. His future is waiting for him -- life is waiting for him -- even if it is not from within the Capuchin community.
The announcement was like a bolt from the clear blue sky. I think none of the novice brothers expected this, not from him, and not so early from anyone in our year together. But the hand of God moves us in ways not wholly to be expected, no matter how perceptive we are or how well we think we know the secrets of our brother's soul.
It seemed to me the fraternity was a little jittery this morning after the announcement, lit up with a nervous playfulness, but we are settling down again, and we will continue walking forward in the light of God, as God gives us the light through Jesus Christ and all of his prophets and saints.
This afternoon, during hermitage time, recentering myself. Also rehearsing with the schola and small group for our celebrations of the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi. Now, about to head to chapel to observe the transitus, our ritual enactment of the passing of Francis from this life to eternal life. Having abruptly bid farewell to a brother in Francis, now once more we bid farewell to the angelic founder of our movement. But we remain ever in Christ, and so we don't really lose the presence of Francis.
Weather
In the excitement of the day, one almost forgets how beautiful the sun and sky are, how clean the air, and how gorgeous the golden hilly earth around us.
Should one wish to contend with him,
he could not answer him once in a thousand times.
Job 9:3
Library
Continuing to read Dorothy Day, even though I have given my presentation with the small group today. The Catholic Worker movement continues to inform my understand of the Capuchin Franciscan charism to minority.
Log
This morning at the conclusion of Mass, one of the novices announced he is leaving the Capuchin formation program. He was gone by nine-thirty. God be with him on his journey. His future is waiting for him -- life is waiting for him -- even if it is not from within the Capuchin community.
The announcement was like a bolt from the clear blue sky. I think none of the novice brothers expected this, not from him, and not so early from anyone in our year together. But the hand of God moves us in ways not wholly to be expected, no matter how perceptive we are or how well we think we know the secrets of our brother's soul.
It seemed to me the fraternity was a little jittery this morning after the announcement, lit up with a nervous playfulness, but we are settling down again, and we will continue walking forward in the light of God, as God gives us the light through Jesus Christ and all of his prophets and saints.
This afternoon, during hermitage time, recentering myself. Also rehearsing with the schola and small group for our celebrations of the solemnity of Saint Francis of Assisi. Now, about to head to chapel to observe the transitus, our ritual enactment of the passing of Francis from this life to eternal life. Having abruptly bid farewell to a brother in Francis, now once more we bid farewell to the angelic founder of our movement. But we remain ever in Christ, and so we don't really lose the presence of Francis.
Weather
In the excitement of the day, one almost forgets how beautiful the sun and sky are, how clean the air, and how gorgeous the golden hilly earth around us.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
Before You On the Way
Lectio Divina
See, I am sending an angel before you, to guard you on the way and bring you to the place I have prepared.
Exodus 23:20
Library
Brushing up on my sources for tomorrow's presentation on Dorothy Day. I know no better summation of the "spirituality" of Day then the following manifesto of the Catholic Worker movement, which, though not to be identified completely with Day, is as good a reflection of her spirit, and as concise a distillation of it, as any statement I have found.
Log
This morning, continuing our class sessions on the history of Christian spirituality, with small groups giving presentations on the following spiritual masters: Teilhard de Chardin, Catherine Doherty, Teresa of Calcutta, and Therese of Lisieux. Tomorrow it is my group's turn to present on Dorothy Day.
This afternoon, house chores. This evening, resuming our rehearsal of music for our celebrations of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Weather
Still hot; still enduring.
See, I am sending an angel before you, to guard you on the way and bring you to the place I have prepared.
Exodus 23:20
Library
Brushing up on my sources for tomorrow's presentation on Dorothy Day. I know no better summation of the "spirituality" of Day then the following manifesto of the Catholic Worker movement, which, though not to be identified completely with Day, is as good a reflection of her spirit, and as concise a distillation of it, as any statement I have found.
Log
This morning, continuing our class sessions on the history of Christian spirituality, with small groups giving presentations on the following spiritual masters: Teilhard de Chardin, Catherine Doherty, Teresa of Calcutta, and Therese of Lisieux. Tomorrow it is my group's turn to present on Dorothy Day.
This afternoon, house chores. This evening, resuming our rehearsal of music for our celebrations of Saint Francis of Assisi.
Weather
Still hot; still enduring.
Monday, October 1, 2012
In 'All This'
Lectio Divina
In all this Job did not sin.
Job 1:22
Library
Continuing research on the history of early monasticism and Dorothy Day. The presentation on Dorothy Day is this week; the one on early monasticism next Tuesday.
Log
This morning: continuing our class sessions on the history of Christian spirituality, and preparing to present on the distinctive sources and aspects of Dorothy Day's spirituality with my small group. This afternoon, spiritual direction at Old Mission Santa Barbara. This evening, schola practice and another very short rehearsal with the small combo singing for our commemoration of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, on Wednesday evening.
Assuming kitchen and liturgical duties concurrently this week. Kitchen duties began this morning; tomorrow I am prayer leader, and Wednesday I am the antiphoner and server at Mass.
Weather
Keeping cool in spite of the lingering summer heat.
In all this Job did not sin.
Job 1:22
Library
Continuing research on the history of early monasticism and Dorothy Day. The presentation on Dorothy Day is this week; the one on early monasticism next Tuesday.
Log
This morning: continuing our class sessions on the history of Christian spirituality, and preparing to present on the distinctive sources and aspects of Dorothy Day's spirituality with my small group. This afternoon, spiritual direction at Old Mission Santa Barbara. This evening, schola practice and another very short rehearsal with the small combo singing for our commemoration of the death of Saint Francis of Assisi, on Wednesday evening.
Assuming kitchen and liturgical duties concurrently this week. Kitchen duties began this morning; tomorrow I am prayer leader, and Wednesday I am the antiphoner and server at Mass.
Weather
Keeping cool in spite of the lingering summer heat.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)