To go forward resolutely as if I were certain of the future ...

24/07/2010: General House - Rome

Morning Prayer:

Pilar, who lives near Lourdes, France, reflected on the images of rock and water in Scripture. She began the reflection by making references to the story of Bernadette of Lourdes in which rock and water play a part.  This reflection was followed by 10 minutes of quiet prayer.

Reflections from two of the Chapter delegates

Our day began with a reflection by Pilar, contemplative from La Solitude Bartrès, near Lourdes, who took us on a journey through Scripture of “water” and “rock”. These two symbols are at the heart of story of Bernadette and of the on-going power of Lourdes to draw so many people, especially the sick and infirm.

Today we will be working on the second draft of the Reconfiguration document. In the name of the Steering Committee, Pat explained the new look of the center piece: footsteps emerging from the center where we find the light and the Word, leading round and out to the words IN SION FIRMATA SUM. As congregation we walk together as one… 

“Your ears shall hear a word behind you, saying, “This is the way, walk in it.” (Is. 30:21) Theodore is also encouraging us with his words, “To go forward resolutely as if I were certain of the future” (Memoirs)

Ignacio in his closing words for the morning reflected on Reconfiguration as entering into the Paschal mystery, going through death to new life, a time which requires new ways of thinking and acting. It is a challenge and a fascinating adventure. We need not be afraid!

                                                 Darlene

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Today Pilar led us in a reflection on Lourdes, the place of her community. It was an inspiring example of the way our context calls us to reflect. She took the themes of water and rock from the bible because water and rock are very significant for St Bernadette’s story. Then we worked on “Reconfiguration”; we are still trying to come to clarity about this reality for us.

                                                   Mary Reaburn

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