Yes, every one of the Missionaries came with questions, few answers, bits of excitement, some apprehensions, doubts, and confusion, hopes for resolution, fears of differences, thoughts of collaboration, memories of the past, living the present, dealing with death— but an overall abundance of positive energy slowly began to emerge. Bubbling in the atmosphere was a realization that bringing a consensus to fruition for all the years of discussions would be necessary to continue the dreams and breathe life into new visions.
What excited me from the moment the conference began was witnessing a moment in history for the United States provinces and experiencing firsthand the communion of their members. The members in the first few days stated to one another and to the group how they did not really know each other very well and expressed the differences and their concerns, especially for those not able to be heard because they were not in attendance. As the conference continued, the realization of renewal and deepening of old friendships and the possibilities of creating new relationships seemed to fill the gathering with a new energy. Precious Blood mission, spirituality, charism and bond shouted commonality, not differences. As Companions, we too are in communion as lay Missionaries of the Precious Blood and have an open invitation of inclusion in creating the future.
I silently stepped back to watch and experience the interactions taking place in the various gatherings and prayer worships presented during the week. Meals and social time not only nourished our bodies, but also our hearts, minds, and souls with opportunities for greeting new faces or renewing old friendships. The storytelling among former classmates, the discovery of similar interests, the acknowledgement of all our Precious Blood rich giftedness through face to face conversations was an eye-opening reward for the community. As Companions, our monthly gatherings and yearly retreats already allow us the avenues for ongoing interaction, storytelling, prayer, and visioning.
We are invited to be heard in the development of something new. We are being given the opportunity to form the clay, to create our dream. Such an invitation can be received very differently by each recipient. One might approach the event with much apprehension and fear of the unknown. Another will approach the opportunity with excitement and a sense of adventure in great anticipation of a new opportunity. We have all been given unique and special gifts— for some easy to share and recognize, for others difficult to acknowledge, and perhaps fear of the unknown and possible failure by taking a chance and stepping out!
Companions have been invited to the table of a“ New Creation.” The subject title for this year’ s Companions retreat was“ The New Creation: A World waits in the Womb.” Much like a mother awaiting the much-anticipated birth of her new child, it takes much work of the body, mind, and soul, lots of patience and learning through mistakes, to create the perfect new being with the grace of God. We as Companions continue to experience growth and change in our own Companion Movement, and our involvement and gifts will be accepted with open hearts and minds for the " New Creation." Each of us are valuable assets in the formation of the clay. Reflect on how you might participate in and commit to the“ New Creation.” Remind yourselves of our Companion mission statement to“ step out, stand up and speak clearly.” Now is the time to be heard and welcomed; accept the invitation! �
In a Dark Time … Eyes Begin to See
Led by Fr. Joseph Nassal, C. PP. S.
A Celebration of the Winter Solstice
As we gather to celebrate the Winter Solstice, we pause in the midst of a most beautiful but busy season to reflect on the darkness of our times captured in the longest of nights. But the natural world holds great lessons about the renewal of the human spirit and how in the darkest of times we begin to see how we are deeply connected to one another and to the earth. Our gathering will include a meditative walk to the Reconciliation Labyrinth and will conclude with a simple soup supper.
Thursday Evening, December 21, 5:30 PM
Suggested donation: $ 20.00 Scholarship Funds Available
Register by December 19th at info @ pbrenewalcenter. org or 816.415.3745
2130 St. Gaspar Way Liberty, MO 64068 pbrenewalcenter. org
December 2017 • The New Wine Press • 9