Some 40 participants gathered for three days at Villa Madonna in Rothesay, NB to learn from Jan Phillips, author/artist/ activist. Jan is a superb teacher, leading us gently through specific tasks, to create in ways we never thought we could. She used poetry, videos, paper exercises, music, humour and her own story to inspire us to go deeper into truth, exploring our own journey. For me, personally, she stirred up a profound gratitude for the gift of life, all life.
I had the privilege/grace of attending the workshop offered this past weekend to Congregation de Notre-Dame sisters and associates at Howe Island. Never again will I experience the elements of AIR, EARTH, WATER and FIRE in the same way or take them for granted. Sister Eileen Power and her colleague and friend, Kathy Murta, with the use of multi-media, brought home to us the truth that we are all intrinsically connected with the COSMOS, as we are with our loving, compassionate GOD, the CREATOR of all that is. Their presentations were so well prepared, so vibrant and thought provoking as well as 'heart-felt.' I think that all present were inspired, encouraged to go forth, while aware of the challenges of our time, to give witness to the words of Pope Francis in Laudato Si that "the world is a joyful mystery to be contemplated with gladness and praise." Is this a response to "How Then Shall We Live?"
