7.18.2023 PBPC Family Bulletin
PBPC Family,
Last night at our Session meeting, we spent some time reflecting on the past 6 months or so of our congregational life. We used the Ignatian Prayer of Examen as a tool for reflection.
Traditionally, the Ignatian Prayer of Examen is a daily prayer pondering moments of consolation (feelings of God's closeness or gratitude) and moments of desolation (feelings of God's absence or a lack of gratitude). Considering moments of God's closeness and moments of God's distance can help us discern what God is doing in our midst. It's a lot like sitting down on the couch with Jesus at the end of the day and asking, "What do you think of today? What do you want me to remember?"
At our Session meeting, as we shared moments where we sensed God's closeness or God's absence, it was interesting to see certain themes rise to the surface or realize that many of us had similar moments where we felt God's closeness. I found our conversation to be deeply enriching and encouraging.
I'd love to hear from you! When you think about the last 6 months or so of our life together, for which moments are you most grateful? When have you felt God's nearness? And are there are moments for which you are ungrateful? Are there times when God has seemed distant?
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Calvin
"The Earth Will Sneeze"
Romans 8:12-25
Calvin Sodestrom
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