June 2021

Change is afoot in the Community as Shane and Elizabeth recommit to a life of prayer and monastic living in general. The last few years have been a time of intense activity and it seems that we went overboard with that. We are pulling back from some of that activity and it will bring changes in our lives, and in the Companions' community as a whole. It feels a bit as if we are in the dark of the cocoon, waiting to see how we will emerge. We will keep you posted, and ask your prayers for ongoing openness to the guidance of the Spirit.

Meanwhile, summertime brings a slightly different rhythm to our lives as monastic Companions. A little less work, a more time for quiet, prayer and study and more than a little more play. In the last while we have visited Innisfree, a glorious garden in Millbrook, New York. We enjoyed it so much that we went with friends, then returned on our silent retreat to imbibe the beauty without words. Both were wonderful ways to have awe and wonder drawn out, and to practice our Love of Creation, the Second Love that we commit to as part of our Covenant.

Coffee Table Communion had its first live, in person celebration of the Eucharist last week. It was filled with the joy of being together and powerful to get to share in Communion again. We are continuing to have an option to "Zoom" in, with the gift of a larger screen so that the people who are online are visible to those in the room. There are some wrinkles to iron out, but it is good. Very good.

Elizabeth and Shane continue to provide spiritual direction. As I write, Shane is at Mercy by the Sea on the Long Island sound in Madison, CT, directing people on silent retreat and enjoying some time with the water and its myriad critters. E is tending the home fires (or air conditioner controls!).

May your summer bring some time immersed in the beauty of creation, having some time for connecting deeply with God and in play. We are all ripe for it, given the stresses of this last year plus. God bless you!