QUESTIONS to enhance your experience of Encounters
1.In our own lives, we sometimes remember an earlier, "better" time when things seemed simpler or easier. Yet lingering there can rob us of the joy offered in the present moment. It can also distract us from any intent toward a future for others. How do you see this mirrored in the Ascension story? Why do you think God seems always to be moving us forward? What does that tell us about hope? Does Jesus' leaving his followers at the Ascension somehow make him more available to us these many years later?
2.In May 2015, Pope Frances wrote a letter to the church and world, Laudato Si, On Care for Our Common Home. In it, he draws attention to our stewardship for all our natural world. What parallels, if any, do you see between that and the universal implications of Resurrection? Does this challenge you? Do you welcome it?
3.If it is each generation's unique challenge and privilege to meditate the Resurrection and its meaning for its own time, how is this different for us in a post-Darwin, post-Einstein, post-moonwalk, post-pandemic world?
4.Looking back over these various Encounters, what was it like for you to spend this extra time of the Easter Season contemplating the Risen Christ? Has it made a difference?
If you'd care to share your response or thoughts with me, I would love that. You can reach me by emailing me. Look forward to hearing your thoughts and maybe sharing them, with permission, in the next newsletter.
First priority will be promoting my new book
Great news! Having been out and about and traveling a little, I am hopeful of resuming live presentations. If your group or faith community is interested in having me as a presenter, I would love to hear from you! Email me
Summer is the ideal time to plan for Advent and ONCE UPON A TIME IN NAZARETH. Or take a look at my Retreats page for the myriad of possibilities we can plan together.
Comments from Readers
With the Thomas video, I found myself reacting to that painting where he probes Jesus' side with his fingers. The nurse in me had some mental conversations with both Jesus and Tom :). Let's just say, I had to do some letting go. The greater question for me was: would I, do I, have the courage to touch and probe where Jesus extends the invitation? It's humbling prospect. - Laura
I am so much enjoying watching and listening to these presentations. I am passing them along to friends to enjoy as I think they might enjoy it. You are gifted putting this together. - Judy
Loved that you included "Do You Love Me?" from Fiddler on the Roof. It makes me both smile and tear up and really is at the heart of a relationship. I also appreciated just singing along to "My Jesus I Love Thee." - Kay
