St Marys Bickleigh

Today we looked at this tradition, I must admit one I knew very little about. The tradition appears to be rooted in the incarnational, the material world of creation rather than a flight away from the world into the wilderness.

The tradition is a community in Christ, a real life example of this is Lee Abbey and Hillfield Friary both places were we can all go to experience this type of rhythm of a more spiritual life.

The Foundation in Christian Ministry Course is helping me explore new ways of worship and opening my eyes and ears.

I would urge all of us whether we have faith or no faith to spend sometime reflecting on this tradition and what it means for our communities.

I am currently undertaking a course called Foundation in Christian Ministry. Today (26th Oct) was the second study day held at the Belmont Chapel in Exeter.

We started to explore a number of fascinating aspects of lay deciplship, bible study, spirituality and pastoral care. This is a year long course designed to help me explore my own calling and my journey in faith.

Today we looked at the contemplative tradition of the church, what is this I hear you say. This is based on the desert fathers seeking a more prayer filled life – God in silence. Silence is a thing a lot of us are not used to or comfortable in.

So we asked ourselves, do we avoid silence? Is there much silence in church? And are there times of quiet in our diary.

Personally quiet times are hard for me and I am even listening to music as I think and type this! I dont feel I allow myself time in the day to be quiet with God and my thoughts. On Sundays I allow myself the time in a service but then its in a very structured way. I found the session really helpful to consider making a time each day where I am more mindful probably for me in the morning when I take the dogs out.

So I have tasked myself between this and next months session to ensure each day I have a meaningful time of silence and try to build it up in length.

I would invite you to look at your day and see if you can find a time to sit and be quiet with your thoughts. If you open your mind and your heart you never knows what you may hear.