“I am flooded with such wonderful memories of this time for me. Members telling their stories, “cheaters” playing dominoes, good wine and outrageous snacks, singing Irish songs accompanied by instruments, the presence of our Episcopal priest members saying Mass, and laughing and laughing and laughing. And, crying, too – my tears would always come whenever I knew I was in the presence of Love.”
Mary Lyons, October 2019 Newsletter
Clusters
Clusters vary from place to place. Some are local groups of members who meet in person. Some gather by phone. New technology such as Zoom offer even more options. We come together for shared prayer and fellowship. Most Cluster meetings include a program planned by one of the members – a personal reflection, a book discussion, a talk by a guest speaker or a video. They may share a meal. Clusters meet once a month or every few months.
Some members gather in Prayer Circles or book discussion groups as described on the Support for the Contemplative Way page.
The Leadership Team of ACW is available to assist in formation of a Cluster or a Prayer Circle.
General Assemblies
A General Assembly takes place every other year. It is an opportunity for everyone to gather. It is usually held in the vicinity of St. Louis, Missouri. The Assembly program includes a challenging presenter, periods of group reflection, times of fellowship, gathering for prayer together, and a talent show. Our presenters in the last few years have included Brother Don Bisson, FMS; Rev. Dr. Cynthia Bourgeault; and Ilia Delio, OSF. Contact us if you wish to attend our upcoming Assembly with Cyprian Consiglio, OSB Cam on September 1 – 6.
Talent Show
“Contemplation is a way of being in the world, walking in the world, and seeing the world that is absolutely different than the daily grind of ideas and contests.”
Richard Rohr, OFM, Center for Action and Contemplation
“You must ask yourself how you want to live your life. We live and we die. This is the truth we can only face alone. No one can help us, not even the Buddha. So consider carefully, what prevents you from living the way you want to live your life?”
His Holiness, the Dalai Lama