“Spiritual direction should address itself to where each
person is. Beginners on the journey need concrete instruction as regards the
regular practice of prayer, a simple rule of life, and suggested readings. For
those who are established in a prayer practice, there is need for Lectio
Divina and study as well as practice for daily life. Several appropriate
practices are suggested in the final chapter of . . . Invitation to Love. . .
. In general, their goal is to encourage the contemplative attitudes of
consent and a prompt letting go of afflictive emotions arising in daily life.
And, of course, encouragement becomes essential as the dark night unfolds.”
(Intimacy with God, 110-111)
“The spiritual director needs to be prepared for what
emerges, not to assume the role of psychotherapist oneself, but to offer
encouragement while recognizing when additional expertise may be called for.”
(IG, 107) If you would like to know more about how spiritual direction might
be helpful in your spiritual journey or would like the name of a spiritual
director in Westchester County, contact Sister Rose Vermette at 914-961-1559
or vermettercd@aol.com.
PSYCHOTHERAPY:
At times during the unloading process in Centering Prayer we
encounter particularly painful emotional material. Faced with this
"emotional junk of a lifetime," we may find ourselves overwhelmed by
sadness, fear, rage, despair or other powerful feelings. When this happens, a
"less than divine" therapist can be a Godsend to help us understand
these newly uncovered aspects of ourselves. If you would like to know more
about how psychotherapy might be helpful in your spiritual journey or would
like the name of a psychotherapist in Westchester or Manhattan, call Steven A.
Standiford at (212) 714-4974.
Other Services that Support the
Healing Process
HEALING SERVICES: The divine light of faith is
totally available in the degree that we consent and surrender ourselves to its
presence and action within us. It heals the wounds of a lifetime and brings us
to transforming union, empowering us to enter Christ’s redemptive program,
first by the healing of our own deep wounds, and then by sharing in the
healing of others. (Invitation to Love, 119) Several members of
Contemplative Outreach of Westchester are involved in additional ways of
helping others on their spiritual journey. Contact Diane Harkin at 914
423-4888 for further information about Healing Services, Reiki, massage, and
Yoga.
Have you considered service for Contemplative
Outreach of Westchester? We have leadership openings as well as administrative
needs. You may wish to serve on one of the Leadership Service Teams that are
listed above. We need volunteers to sell books and register people at the
upcoming October Centering Prayer Retreat and both Introductory Workshops in
September. We are always looking for volunteers for hospitality for our Saturday
Events.
Contact your coordinator Sister Rose Vermette if
you feel inclined to serve right here in Westchester.
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