Transforming Grief

Friday – Sunday, September 28 – 30, 2018

“Christ is to be born, to die, to rise and to ascend in the history of all humankind,
and in the history of each one of us.”
– A.M. Allchin, Participation in God.

Grief is transformative; of that, there is no doubt. Yet, because of the suffering that attends the grief experience, we shrink from its embrace. In so doing, we miss much of what the Body of Christ has to offer us by way of guidance, sustenance and companionship in our suffering.

As grief itself is transformational, we seek the guidance of the Spirit in transforming our experience of grief.

Our time together will carry a gentle, sacramental character. Guided by a unique perspective on the ancient practice of Lectio Divina, we will enfold our life experience with Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, particularly St. John of the Cross, silence and song.

We pray that our time together will secure for us not only a methodology for future practice but a refreshing and grounding experience of Grace.

Led by the Rev. Max Woolaver, parish priest at St. Andrew’s, Grimsby website » and a graduate of the Shalem program for spiritual directors – website » . He is also a member of Spiritual Directors of Ontario.

• • Arrivals and registration 2-4 pm Friday; ends 1:30 pm Sunday.
  • Fee $240; deposit $50.
  • Registration deadline: September 21, 2018
  • Registration here »

• All retreats and quiet days at St. John’s Convent take place in the milieu of a contemporary monastic community which has a daily rhythm of prayer. All guests are invited to take part in the daily Eucharist, and those staying overnight may like to join us in the Divine Office (Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline).
• See the regular chapel and meal schedule here »