A Letter from Lindy Dec 22

Pilgrims,
I find myself startled that Christmas Eve is five days away with a Posada as the preparer of its way. Where has advent gone? Have there been any spiritual awakenings as our Advent guide, Richard Rohr, has asked through his 12 step meditations? 
 
For me, what has resonated equally is a word from my other advent companion, Jan Richardson, who keeps asking her retreatants to examine the complicated-ness of joy. Pausing with her reflection, questions, art and music has allowed me to stand still amidst the swirl of emotions that comprise this season. I was entranced with her reminder that complicate has as its Latin roots a word that means to fold together, as when a recipe asks that an ingredient be incorporated into the mix.
 
That's how I have come to feel about our shared Blue Christmas service that is so sparsely attended that it makes no sense for six officiants to lead a group numbered smaller than that. Yet we turn to each other as we recess how much we each love this little service amidst a season of breakneck speed. It creates sacred space to allow our sorrow to rest amidst, and not be isolated from, our joy--that we can hold both for ourselves and for each other.
 
I love that! During the service, those who have entrusted me to hold your story with you this season, comes into my heart, which then raises you to holy embrace--and there I pray you feel every emotions of the season-- wrapped in the connectedness we create as beloved community.

Peace be with each of you.

Pastor Lindy