As the nights grow longer, we often turn on more lights attempting to continue the “productivity” of our busy lives in spite of the dark. But if we are truly awake to the Spirit, we begin to appreciate the darkness as an invitation to stop, look, and listen. This season of preparation and waiting can be a welcome respite for our bodies and a crucial pause for our souls.
The Abbey is hosting several events in the coming weeks where you have the opportunity to experience an alternative to the capitalist hustle-bustle and spending sprees–of time and money.
Advent Quiet Day – Saturday, Dec. 6, 9:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m.
Throughout the stories of Advent, God’s call comes in the dark — to Joseph in a dream, to shepherds under the night sky, to travelers guided by starlight. This Advent Quiet Day offers space to rest, reflect, and listen for God’s quiet presence in our own times of waiting and uncertainty. Through readings, poetry, and conversation, we will explore how the darkness can be not only a place of fear, but a place of guidance, calling, and new beginnings.
Co-led by Janet Davis, Lynda Young Kaffie, Katherine Muhlenbroch, Sharon Lowe, and Rebecca Hall. We are going to explore where the darknesses of creation, exodus, incarnation, crucifixion, and resurrection through poetry, art and scripture.
This is an in-person event at St. David’s Episcopal Church, in Austin, TX. Please bring your own lunch. We will eat together as a group. Drinks will be provided.
Register HERE.
Advent Against Empire Videos and Discussion – Dec. 5, 12, 19, at 10 a.m.
Diana Butler Bass and Trip Fuller team up to offer a series of lectures and Q&A sessions. You can watch these on your own. The Abbey will offer three Zoom discussions on Friday mornings, December 5, 12, and 19 at 10 am.
Register HERE.
Winter Solstice Gathering – Dec. 21, 5:30 p.m.
The sunset on Winter Solstice this year comes at 5:35pm on December 21, with full darkness coming around 5:56 – 6 p.m. Join The Abbey for a contemplative quiet time of prayer, art, and poetry as we welcome the darkness.
Register HERE and Zoom will send you a link.