“The longest journey seems to be the letting go of the expectations, the assumptions, the woundedness; all of the ways we seek just what we are looking for rather than what is waiting to be revealed.” (Christine Valters Paintner, The Soul’s Slow Ripening)
The early days of the pandemic came just a few weeks into my sabbatical time. As for most of us, the lockdown upended (the few) (sabbatical) plans I had laid out.
Sabbatical held many unexpected gifts (as it is hoped to). Many offerings moved online which allowed me some different opportunities for spiritual nurture and engagement, and it was a delight to participate in retreat focused on peregrinatio led by Christine Valters Paintner.
“In this profound practice…God is in the call to the journey and the unfolding of the journey…The goal of the wandering is always to find the palace of our resurrection, the place where our gifts can be brought fully to life…”
My spiritual director highlighted the work of Abbey of the Arts early on in our time together, and I have deeply appreciated the daily reflections and prompts ever since. Her poetry collections have been very moving, and when I saw this collection of reflections and invitations become available, I knew I wanted a copy.
Whether you are interested in learning more about Celtic Spirituality or having an accessible, practical guide to lead you through spiritual practices, this is a meaningful and helpful resource. This book can be read straight through or used as a weekly/monthly resource for experiencing different spiritual disciplines for individuals, small groups or even used to shape a time of retreat.
This is a beautiful weaving together of personal story, Christian tradition and scripture that is model and encouragement for the discipleship journey.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received The Soul’s Slow Ripening: 12 Sacred Practices for Seeking the Sacred from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.