Last week I attended the National Gathering for FUMSDRL (Fellowship of United Methodist Spiritual Directors and Retreat Leaders) also known as Hearts on Fire at the Ignatius House in Sandy Springs, GA. It was the first time in 5 years that we have met in person because of the "C-season". Last year's gathering was a wonderful time online with Carrie Newcomer and I am grateful to have attended it.
It was my first time to be at the Ignatius House and my first time to hear Daniel Wolpert.
The theme for this year: "Hearts on Fire for a World on Fire: Spiritual Direction and Social Transformation
From the FUMSDRL website:
Hearts On Fire for a World on Fire: Spiritual Direction and Social Transformation
To say that the world is in a powerful time of upheaval and transformation has almost become cliché at this point, yet it is true. The multiple crises of climate change, social unrest, the rise of fear and totalitarianism, all press upon us and strain our physical, emotional and spiritual health.
At such times we see an increased interest in the spiritual life and in new forms of spiritual community. These moments also call for spiritual companionship and spiritual direction. As directors we can and do serve as agents of social transformation, sitting with individuals and groups as we listen for the movement of the Spirit.
Come join us for this time of retreat where together we will reflect upon Spiritual Direction and Social Transformation. This will be a time to gather with colleagues, spend time in prayer, renew our spirits and come to a deeper understanding as to how we engage the principalities and powers in our work as directors.
Leader: Rev. Daniel Wolpert
Daniel Wolpert, a healer and student of the spiritual life, has taught and led retreats in the fields of psychology, integrative medicine, and spiritual formation in numerous settings over the past 30 years. Co-founder and Executive Director of the Minnesota Institute of Contemplation and Healing, a Spiritual Director, and Presbyterian pastor, he is also the author of several books and multiple articles on spiritual life, leadership, and healing.
The time apart, along with the time with colleagues, the speaker, time on the grounds of the retreat center, and some time around Atlanta on Friday--- all of it was just what I needed last week.
On Friday, I found myself seeing most things through the lenses of social transformation and systems-- from coffee at the Refuge (I had first heard about their truck when I had been to Atlanta with the Episcopal Latino Training I took--ELMC in 2019), to the art at the High Museum, to biscuits at the Bomb Biscuit Atlanta where a slogan on the apron (and the name of a cookbook) is "still we rise", to the Carter Center.... so many connection points to social transformation.
At some point, I will share more in reflection.
Right now, I will share photos-- photos from the retreat center and photos from the adventure time on Friday that also connected to social transformation.
Time apart is holy time. It's a time to focus, to listen, to set aside some of the normal daily activities for a different set of daily activities. I am very grateful for the time apart, the teaching, the conversations, the worship, etc.
Continuing on the adventurous journey of life and seeking to make a difference in the systems within my reach.
Debra
Some photos of the Ignatius House and my adventures around Atlanta: (I took more photos at the Ignatius House during a hike, but they are in a different location-- will add when I get to them)
Additional photos of Ignatius House:
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