Yr. C, Wk. 1: Living as Mature Christians, First Meeting

Starting with blessing from The Book of Common Prayer,p. 835, Scott posed a "coming on board" question to help us to get acquainted or re - acquainted: "What three words describe your summer?" We shared answers as we enjoyed Susan's pasta salad (sliced lemon and squash, herbs, sides of feta and diced chicken).

Yr. C, Living as Spiritually Mature Christians. Class: Katey, Matt, Pete, first year' Christine, second year; Mariel, Gene, third year; Erica, fourth year; Scott and Susan, co - mentors. Absent: Gene.

For the record, without attribution, our eight sets of chosen words included Insight … Memorial … Fitbit … Reconnections … Miles … Overwork … Re - alignment … Surrender. In the Pilgrimage Room, we lit a candle and followed the Canadian church's order of service printed in the RRG, including shared thoughts about the readings. We sensed the theme that mature faith entails action. Back in our EfM den, we combed the RRG's chapter for clues to what our group norms should be. We used Post - its to attach ideas to green, yellow, and red discs -- [see photo].

• What we must not do: Don't treat EfM as a personal therapy session … no advice … no politics.
• What we should remember: Speak in "I" statements, not "you" or "we" … cell phones for emergencies only … the commentary that we read is not sacred … we don't need all your most personal information … some people need more time to formulate their thoughts, so allow them time before jumping into a discussion.
• What we should do: Support each other and maintain freedom … respect privacy and confidentiality … evangelize about EfM … participate fully - come prepared! (but don't stay home just because you didn't read!) … listen with open mind and respectful heart … call or text when late or absent … relax and enjoy the ride!

First Years were curious about "Theological Reflection." Erica assured them that they would come to appreciate the practice. Mariel said that TRs put our faith in practice through group dynamics -- allowing space for the Holy Spirit to direct us. We dismissed with a benediction from the RRG.

Next week: Susan will lead discussion of the RRG's second chapter. Our materials will likely have arrived by then. Scott will be on retreat with 7th graders.