Retreat v. Vacation. It is not really a battle, however, it might be set up as one. When my husband and I go on vacation there is a great deal of revelry. We let the girls go a bit crazy with bedtime. We watch movies. We adventure in places with beaches and friends. I read a lot of Christian romance books. If I am being honest, I read some plain romances too, I just skip over some parts. Sometimes, I end up skipping the daily office once a day. My spiritual director encourages me to give myself grace during this time so that I may be joyful and shake up my rhythm.

When we go on retreat it is a different rhythm altogether. We adhere strictly to the Daily Office. This past week, I took time at Camp Allen to retreat and reflect. Friends, a few weeks ago, I was ordained a priest. I loved Fr. Roman’s blog explaining that I should not be on some pedestal. However, I was changed, and I had some reflecting to do about the way in which the Holy Spirit is working in my life. I needed time with my family to explore how our roles are changing. I needed time with my husband to vision our lives and ministry. Without the love and support of David, truly, my ministry would be limited. Fr. Roman encouraged me to take this time to reflect on the changing nature of our family. Since I came to the priesthood later in life, it was essential that I involve my whole family in the retreat.

Before the retreat began, I laid out the daily office reading for the week in a binder. Most mornings, I use an app to pray The Morning Office and Evening Office. Sometimes I pray outside amidst the stars, sometimes before my feet hit the ground of my bed. During the retreat week, we headed to All Saint’s Chapel where we prayed together. Grace would read. Faith would acolyte. In the evening, we had the same pattern.

We also celebrated communion once during the week. It was truly a rejuvenating occasion. It was not, however, a vacation. Instead of romances, I read mostly commentaries and theologians. Instead of focusing on the rhythm of the world, I focused on the rhythm of the church days. I felt the Spirit more acutely and am now better able to minister. It is a great blessing for me that I am able to take this time. Thank you, St. Dunstan’s for allowing me to have this time of reflection.

For His Sake,

Beth Anne