Pathways Rhythms December 2022 November Rest, Reflect, Renew Retreats Two Advent retreat days happened in November, offering space for reflection and preparation. We practiced Visio Divina with candlelight, holding the candle, feeling its warmth, opening to its illumination. We pondered how to slow down this Advent to enjoy the gift of being alive. We also paused at the great divine reflecting pool, dipping our fingers into the peppermint scented water and calling upon God With Us to bless our bodies with peace-filled presence. - Julie Stegelmann Advent Prayer Holy One, slow me down this Advent so that I may enjoy the gift of being alive. Awaken my inner eye to notice how you reveal yourself in me and in others. Let me not miss simple moments of illumination. An Unusual Christmas Tree There’s an amazing tree on Pathways land upon which I’d like to hang glittering garland and sparkling lights! This white oak ( Quercus alba ), with a breast height diameter of 49 inches, is the largest and oldest tree on the land of Pathways Retreat. Following two growth rate models, this tree is estimated to be 266 to 245 years old. It emerged as a seedling from a small acorn sometime between 1756–1777. In other words, this is the only surviving tree from when the Potawatomi lived here and managed this land! What has this tree been doing throughout its long life? Providing more food and habitat for wildlife than any other tree species. White oak trees provide food for more than 500 species of butterflies and moths, whereas ornamental pear trees provide food for two species. The caterpillars that feed on white oak trees in turn provide abundant food for many birds and mammals. Thank you, old oak tree, for your steadfast, life-giving presence! - Linda Lehman Thomas Christmas Holiday Break Pathways’ rhythm of prayer will pause for three weeks beginning on December 19. Prayers will resume in the new year on January 9. Groups may continue to schedule the retreat house and individual retreats will continue to be available through the holidays. Calendar Iona Healing Prayer Online 3rd Mondays, Noon January 16 Prayer of Commitment In person and online Tuesdays, 8-8:30am with optional conversation following prayer Lectio Divina In person and online Wednesdays, 8-8:30am with optional conversation following prayer Centering Prayer In person and online Thursdays, 8-8:30am Creation Prayer In person Fridays, 8-8:45am Pathways is on Facebook & Instagram Like Pathways Retreat on Facebook and follow us on Instagram to stay up to date with announcements and events. Visit pathwaysretreat.org Pathways Retreat is a spiritual retreat center for Rest, Reflection and Renewal. Co-Directors Linda Lehman Thomas Evan Miller Julie Stegelmann
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