http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/ The Community of John XXIII en-us Fri, 30 Jul 2010 16:47:01 GMT Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT CF Blogger by DayDream Inc http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss mrscaine@comcast.net mrscaine@comcast.net http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=AA7440F2-FF30-AC85-5252E80586D66E58 We began our conference call with a prayer read by Mary Scaine from Bill Cleary:God of All Creation, when our hearts are cold as stone and our minds numb, still we know our prayer is heard, the prayer that is our past, our present and our future.   Our very life prays, communicates, to you.   The faithful sun, seemingly still, moves steadily from east to west, and everything living cries out to it for vitalization.   Similarly we all look to you, Creating Intelligence, in gratitude.   We are alive, chosen to exist today, and we give thanks.   Amen.We then had a moment of silence remembering and embracing our members who were sick, Alan Moore, Mary Alice Charpentier and Ralph Pinto. We called into our circle of prayer Francis McGillicuddy who “passed over” and his beloved wife and soul friend, Elaine. We remembered the people of Haiti and the following conversations flowed:   Several people have requested that we probe more deeply into the new cosmology (New Story)    as a basis for our next discussion.  Please notice that Patricia Fresen suggests that reformed groups are beginning to understand “that our faith will be reformulated to fit in better with humanity’s present and future understanding of cosmology and the universe story.” We will start our New Cosmology discussions with an article from the July/Aug. ’09 CORPUS REPORTS entitled “Spirituality for a Third Millenium” wherein Dick Scaine situates the three commitments within the context of the New Cosmology. This will be followed by the Jan/Feb 2010 CORPUS REPORTS article entitled “Spirituality: Feeling at Home in the Universe.” Discussion Questions: What did you find most liberating in this article?  Why? Most challenging? Most insightful? What did you find most disturbing? Why? Please be specific.    Conference Call Community of John XXIII   Jan. 17, 2010Tony began the discussion with the observance that the article was certainly liberating for him and was helpful in discerning how to work out the way to live his life. That does get to the heart of what the commitments of the JohnXXIII Community mean as we go about our daily lives. As Pat said, it calls out to the living spirit in each of us into something  better, breaking through any isolation we may be in.The discussion revolved around an overriding theme of cosmology which is “relatedness.” How apropos as we celebrate the birthday of Dr. King who often used the phrase, “All life is interrelated.” How wonderful that we were able in such a caring way, to express our willingness and openness to connecting to the 3 commitments of relatedness, justice-making and mutual collaboration, especially when faced with  a tragedy like the earthquake in Haiti. Our very discussion and internal prayer expression reaches out to the people of Haiti in a positive prayerful embrace.Terry and Fred QuinnEvery month our focus becomes clearer and this time it was very clear and very +-special. Sad to say, the disastrous situation in Haiti was the backdrop for the successful time we spent together. The particular urgency there was an occasion for us to identify more closely with cosmic reality as it is unfolding in Haiti, and where we were able to understand and relate and adapt our specific John 23rd spirituality to the situation. As a result we felt closer to each other as we identified with the victims of the tragedy. This is my personal opinion, which I am sure is shared by all who were present.  I would also say that in my own case I gained more from the experience because I have further to go in applying and living out the goals of our group to specific situations. Tony The image that comes to mind when I think of the whole Haiti crisis is that of an open wound in the body of the earth or the Body of Christ --- the whole world. Like the immune system in the body, the whole world is rushing to the site of the injury, trying to heal and make whole and healthy again.  We mourn all the dead and work to bring new life to the living.  Health will come only when a more just world works together to heal this terrible wound that is Haiti.Therese Padovano In preparing for today's conference I was also following the events of  devastation in Haiti. The values of the article paralleled with the  reality of Haiti's  situation. Interconnectedness.  Interdependence. "Seeing one in  all" ,this is our challenge NOW of belonging to the world. A people  reduced to the most basic needs in front of our eyes are our community  in need of care as well as protection from all levels of materialism,  abuse of power as well as patriarchal, hierarchical and institutional  injustice. Caring, respect and financial support are opportunities to  co-create with the Spirit toward a new unexpected future of greater  equity and financial justice as opposed to control and domination.  Pat We felt energized in our relationship to each other and to the world  as we were searching and discerning, e.g.: we saw the consequences of  an empirial director "Duvalier" providing a country club for the elite  and we opted for an "Aristide", who could plan for an agriculturally  self sustained island-nation & eventually share this paradise island  with ecotourists of the world. Nick & Pat General Info Sun, 07 Feb 2010 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=AA7440F2-FF30-AC85-5252E80586D66E58 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F4F6046A-FF30-AC85-52F43DC83178DEC4 Below is the response from the Community of John XXIII from our December Conference call: We had revisited the article written by Patricia Fresen in Corpus Reports Sept/Oct issue: Pat & Nick MosunicPatricia Fresen is thought provoking and inspiring in her ideas. For a  while we have found a hope in the Vatican's  harsh ,rigid thinking and  treatment of God's people. Maybe things would be so clearly bad that  it would evoke a strong reaction and force change. Now in this  article, “the Chaos Theory" insightfully illustrates how severe  aggression can be followed by chaos leading toward transformation. The  spirit breathes where it will and our experience and pursuit of God is  not dependent on any institution. Sometimes false belief systems must  die in order to welcome new life.   Fred and Terry’s response to Conference Call-- Community of JohnXXIII---12-20-09After reading Patricia Fresen’s article again, Fred expressed frustration with an understanding of what an emerging church is to us, but what is not the understanding of many in our acquaintance,  or for that matter the majority of the world. Perhaps it is the same frustration that Tony has when he speaks of no one with whom he can communicate his emerging and challenging thoughts. We see the emergence of a non-dogmatic, non-hierarchical spirituality based on commonality of purpose, as evidenced by our LIVING of the commitments of the Community of John XXIII. Patricia Fresen speaks of self-ministering communities, which we see as reflective of the early church communities, and reflective of the message that Jesus revealed—of the kingdom of NOW, the kingdom within. She quotes Douglas Klotz’s translation of the original Aramaic Our Father—“Focus your light within us, make us useful.” Perhaps we should use Dick’s last article “Spirituality for a Third Millenium”(Corpus Reports July/Aug.-09)   as a basis for our next discussion because it focuses on the new cosmology, or the “new story’ as Morwood refers to it, pushing us to reassess our commitments in the light of what Patricia Fresen suggests as the end of an old paradigm leading to “paradigm mutation” or a cosmic shift. She says, (and helps us in our frustration when she does), that, “when enough people see things differently, it changes the balance of things and the balance tips over, and change comes about, the new paradigm emerges.” Tony from Italy responded:I resonate with the first paragraph of Fred and Terry's comment. I found the reading and discussion of the Patricia Fresen article to be anexcellent overview of the axial period  full of the changes we are livingthrough, five hundred years after the Reformation, stressed by Richard(who always keeps us on track and always closes the call with aninsight/overview  that is fitting and needed.)  As a historian, I amparticularly struck by this. Our times are exciting to live through, andunquestionably I am hopeful. Yet, I am disturbed that I personallydo not have much of the satisfaction that normally comes from a Corpus-likefamily which is living through these historic times together. Right now,my main sharing is more with religious pluralists,borderline Christians, and some agnostics. Vicki Di BenedettoI apologize for missing Sunday's meeting.  I simply forgot!Believe it or not, I am becoming accustomed and enriched by my sharing with "religious pluralists, borderline Christians, and some agnostics", as  Samuel categorizes them, so much that personally, I no longer feel disturbed at not being part of a local Corpus-like family.  I find the my world contacts divided between those that are "inclusive" and those that  are "exclusive", but the "inclusive" crowd is growing exponentially, and  that, to me, is "church". At the same time, I cherish my inclusive CORPUS family!  I read all I can  and think and share what I can remember, especially treasuring CORPUS REPORTS and the John XXIII community.Several people have requested that we probe more deeply into the new cosmology (New Story)    as a basis for our next discussion.  Please notice that Patricia Fresen suggests that reformed groups are beginning to understand “that our faith will be reformulated to fit in better with humanity’s present and future understanding of cosmology and the universe story.”    General Info Sun, 03 Jan 2010 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F4F6046A-FF30-AC85-52F43DC83178DEC4 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=8950D62B-FF30-AC85-52E429426E47D335 Community of JohnXXIII Conference Call Nov 15, 2009The community met to discuss the following: Mary Scaine led us in prayer.Community of JohnXXIII November 15, 2009 Thoughts for Discussion and Opening Prayer1.      What did you find most exciting in Patricia Fresen’s article? Why? Most challenging? Most insightful? What did you find most disturbing? Why? Please be specific.2.      In addition to the thoughts Patricia Fresen makes, what are some of the other ways to face the question “what now?”We are receiving requests, and referring inquiries into our JohnXXIII website. Please do not forget to write a paragraph of appreciation/reaction for posting on the website. It is a main source of information for those who want to pursue our identity and history. Your submission need not disclose personal material but should be briefly informative. Thanks.SOARING At Daybreak By William Clearywww.clearyworks.com/about.htmlWhen my mind is far from concentration and my heart unfocused, still my being speaks to you, God of life, God of promise. There is hope for me because you are a caring creator, and have filled our experience with caringness: links of concern and love for those around me, and energies of caringness from others to me. In such a circle we can survive, and with imagination can find joy in the mysterious dance of daily life. Amen.Terry and Fred Quinn wrote:We began with Nick’s poignant description of his recent visit to Croatia and his sadness at meeting a former classmate, a nun, still bound by the restrictions and submission of women of the church of yesteryear. Echoes of that feudal system in the church remain, but Patricia Fresen gives us reason to hope, as she speaks of a better understanding of the mission of Jesus and what he revealed about God. As she says when she writes of the language spoken by Jesus, Aramaic—“nethqudash smath”---“Focus your light within us, make it useful.” ---which is what we are striving to do by living our commitments. Hopefully, at Pat’s suggestion, we will be able to share this vision in person at a retreat gathering in the Spring. Pat and Nick commented:     As the new "kid on the block", I hope the retreat ideas were not too  forceful. We loved Patricia Fresen's article.Agreeing with the quote of Don  Cozzens " The Church will submerge before it will emerge", we looked  at the realities of classism, clericalism,  sexism as they have  existed but are being challenged and rejected today. Presently we are  bridging from what already dominates to a new paradigm where  democratic principles,collaborative self ministering communities  closer to the vision of Jesus will exist. Insight is not enough to  give voice to these practices. How do we , the Community of John  XX111,move toward a global cosmic experience and share in such a way  that we can relationally affirm each other to help us live out these  beliefs. We would love to come together as a group for a weekend of  praying together and getting to know each other while we explore the  content of our communal committment.We discussed the possibilities of having an annual retreat whereb current members  could renew their commitments and new members would be welcomed into the community.  The discussions are ongoing at this point. We plan on having our next conference call on December 20, 2009 and will re-visit Patricia Fresen’s article again as our participants were few in number.                                                                                     Mary Scaine   General Info Sun, 13 Dec 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=8950D62B-FF30-AC85-52E429426E47D335 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F3361AF5-FF30-AC85-524D95404F826482 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, October 25th. Present were: Linda Pinto our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators.  Also joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Bob Charpentier, John Warner, Allen Moore, Barbara Ryland, Theresa Padovano, Pat and Nick Mosunic and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy).Mary Scaine invited all present today as participants in the Community of John XXII  to begin with a moment of silence as we welcomed and embraced  and sent our healing vibrations toward Francis and Elaine and Mary Alice and Bob and other members of our family and friends. Into Your Silence…..God of this creation, of this day, of this moment, we speak words into your silence – but with profound reverence.  Our heads are spinning with astonishment at the universe which we find ourselves in, living our lives within the phenomenon of evolution, an unfolding, changing, unfinished reality.  To be part of it is an honor.  We give you thanks as we look into the abyss of your energies. Amen.William Cleary (We Side with the Morning)We began our session with the following:John XXIII October 25th Thoughts for Discussion From chapters Eight through Ten of James Carroll’s book, what events, personalities, struggles or admissions most parallel your own growth as an adult concerned participant in the Community of John XXIII. Please be specificIn the Embracing Spirit of the Community John XXIII Where do we go from Here? Where does each of  us stand in terms of implementing our three commitments:  1.  Commitment to Relatedness2.  Commitment to Justice Making3.  Commitment to Mutual Collaboration  Do we wish to continue with written submissions for posting on the website?Suggestion: For November discussion, read Patricia Fresen’s article (pp. 31-35) in September/October Corpus Reports, 2009.PLEASE LET US KNOW IF YOU CAN BE PRESENT AT THE OCTOBER CALL, IF NOT, SHARE WITH US YOUR IDEAS AND SUGGESTIONS ON THE LISTSERVE….Mary and Dick Scaine 10/4/09 The responses were as follows:Fred and Terry QuinnWe began with a prayer and moment of silence in loving concern for Francis McGillicuddy and Mary Alice Charpentier. We included in that positive prayer energy their spouses and caregivers Elaine and Bob. Our discussion revolved around thoughts brought about by James Carroll’s book Practicing Catholic. Pat talked about her surprise at the traditional approach to the Catholic church of her classmates at a class reunion. We feel that even the well educated are not always well educated in theology, the true history of the church, the principles of Vatican ii or even what canon law actually says.(think freedom of conscience). As we said, when the populace is unknowing and still walks in lock-step with what they were taught as children, the fear factor still takes over. The magic ability to take away sin and allow entrance into a place called heaven is the power wielded by the hierarchical church. Confronting the fallacies and almost childlike obedience to church teaching involves responsibility for one’s own actions and a response to what was the true mission of Jesus, embodied in our commitments to Relatedness, Justice-Making and Mutual Collaboration. For those interested in the article from America magazine (listed in the last Mirabile Dictu) that we mentioned the link is:http://www.americamagazine.org/content/article.cfm?article_id=11905 Tony wrote:The conference dealing  specifically with the last chapters of Carroll's book, and  generally with the whole book1)  gave me the occasion to  revisit many years of my own  life,2) helped me clarify various theological positions, and has been an aid in the course I am preparing to teach on  recent American Catholicism for the University of Warsaw and 3) most importantly  helped me deepen the  ( still new to me) spirit of our progressive community. It was another moment in meeting our silent and mysterious God. And this was/is good.I welcome our decision to reflect and send this post -conference note, especially because in my own case, I am convinced that it keeps me alert to the need to implement our commitments. In contrast to most of the members of the group, I do not have many other chances to do this.Due to technical difficulties, many members could not hear one another and so our responses this month are of a limited nature. We adjourned and set a date for November 15, 2009.We agreed to read, Patricia Fresen’s article (pp. 31-35) in September/October Corpus Reports, 2009.                                                                                                 Mary Scaine General Info Sat, 14 Nov 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F3361AF5-FF30-AC85-524D95404F826482 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=44086024-FF30-AC85-52229106D8684F60 Our Conference Call for September, though small in numbers was certainly animated in the creative sharing of the Spirit. We had emailed the following for consideration.Practicing Catholic:            From chapters Four through Seven of James Carroll’s book, what events, personalities, struggles or admissions most parallel your own growth as an adult concerned participant in the Community of John X.III.Mary Scaine led us in the prayer:Come Holy Spirit, breathe down upon our troubled world.Shake the tired foundations of our crumbling institutions.Break the rules that keep you out of all our sacred spaces,and from the dust and rubble, gather up the seedlings of a new creation. Come Holy Spirit, enflame once more the dying embers of our weariness.Shake us out of our complacency. Whisper our names once more,and scatter your gifts of grace with wild abandon.Break open the prisons of our inner being,and let your raging justice be our sign of liberty. Come Holy Spirit and lead us to places we would rather not go.Expand the horizons of our limited imaginations.Awaken in our souls dangerous dreams for new tomorrow,and rekindle in our hearts the fire of prophetic enthusiasm. Come Holy Spirit, whose justice outwits international conspiracy,whose light outshines religious bigotry,whose peace can halt our patriarchal hunger for dominance and control, whose promise invigorates out every effort:to create a new heaven and a new earth, now and forever.  Amen. Diarmuid O’ MurchuAs Mary Scaine said in her opening remarks, “It was  for her, a trip down “Memory Lane”Terry and Fred Quinn had the following responseThe discussion began with a trip down “Memory Lane” with fond recollections of the openness that occurred with the aggiornamento of our hero JohnXXIII. As Barbara said, “He let in the fresh air,”----opening those wide windows.  However, we are currently faced with closed windows, firmly latched and secured against the loss of power, prestige and control. This control includes the concept of Jesus as Savior. On pp. 82-83 James Carroll tells us that mystics like Teresa of Avila and in contemporary thought, Thomas Merton—“found God in their interiority as much as in Church membership; by thinkers like Abelard in early medieval Paris and Dollinger in Enlightenment Germany, for both of whom Jesus was less Savior than Revealer—revealing that we are all already saved simply by virtue of existing. For that matter, such affirmation of the human was made by the author of the Gospel of John, who defined creation as the logos of God. Creation itself is sacramental.”This is important because without the “Fear Factor” of the loss of salvation or heaven as it were, the hierarchical power no longer exists.  This allows for the expression of the Spirit through new ways of celebrating in community and in recognizing the relatedness of all creation.Hi, Mary and DickThank you so much for the Corpus edition-I love the articles-it arrived yesterday. Don't know if you wanted to hear from us re something to post-Anyway, I am grateful to be part of the Community-I feel very empowered after our meetings!! I really appreciated what Terry had to say.  Prayers for Francis as he goes into surgery- Love,BarbaraDear Friends, I just wanted to let you know that I missed yesterday's call due to a sinus infection that sent me to bed for the last few days.  Went to the doctor today and was given double doses of antibiotics to get me in shape for my Italy trip next week.  But I was so sorry to have missed the discussion, as well as next month's, ergo, a little reflection follows: I had read the required chapters of John Carroll's book and am so amazed at my naivete from the time I went to a Catholic college for 3 years, (studying Dominican theology and philosophy) yet, knowing so little about the outside world, up to and including the ensuing 10 years in the convent.  Just prior to my entering in the summer of 1960, John Kennedy came to the Newman Center in Albuquerque.  I was asked to organize and prepare a reception for him after Mass, which I did.  During the Mass I sat right behind him, and when he sat down and I kneeled, my nose was practically in his hair!  During the reception we had a receiving line and I told him that I was leaving for the convent in a few weeks, but that I believed in what I had learned about his platform and had made arrangements to vote for him by way of absentee ballot.  He was very supportive of my decision, encouraged me, and wished me well in my new life.  I was thrilled with the encounter and with his "magical" presence, believing that he would be a wise and patient President. That November, though I had been previously assured that I could vote, the superiors changed the policy and I was disenfranchised.  That was the beginning of my distrust and dissatisfaction concerning "arbitrary" decisions made by superiors.  I kept the "rule" (of St. Augustine) to the "t", and was considered a "good nun" but always thinking, I would leave when I decided to, not when others  might decide I may have been unfit.  Gratitude for my experiences and blessings there, still abounds. For the last 3 years I was appointed Directress of the Albuquerque Dominican Retreat House.  Those three years were a shocking revelation to me and, I thought, an expansive education as we hosted retreats for religious from all over the Southwest.  The intellectual "ferment" was electrifying.  Even though I met my future husband, Romeo, whom I hired to give retreats in early 1968, and he spent years educating me regarding the life of the Church and the modern world, I had never quite put the pieces together the way John Carroll did in those Chapters, especially the explanation of what went on during Vatican II and afterwards, and the thinking of various heroic scholars of the time.  His welcomed perspectives broadened my world view, and firmed up my commitments to social justice. Coming from such a sheltered life, and yet, despite my lack of education and basic knowledge, I feel that I've always valued a basic openness to new ideas, and the freedom to entertain opposing ideas in search of God's Will in the Christ Light, i.e., God, up there, and God down here: our evolving consciousness is a stunning, integral part of the divine creative Force, here and how.  I think that evolution is approaching "warp speed"!Thank you, John XXIII, Romeo, (RIP-2006) and the Community, for nurturing me.Vicki Dear Vicki, It's such a joy reading this I would encourage you to send it to our whole John XXIII community!   Thank you for your last sentences!  They show such insight: "...our evolving consciousness is a stunning, integral part of the divine creative Force, here and how.  I think that evolution is approaching "warp speed"! Warm memories of last June's sharings at our CORPUS Conference!Elaine. Our trip down “Memory Lane” concluded with promises to read the last three chapters  (Eight –Eleven) of James Carroll’s book, what events, personalities, struggles or admissions most parallel your own growth as an adult concerned participant in the Community of John XXII.Submitted by: Mary Scaine    General Info Sun, 11 Oct 2009 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=44086024-FF30-AC85-52229106D8684F60 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=95ED7F78-FFE2-C712-13E8C8BC3429A54D The Tele-conference call of August 16th was very refreshing in the overflow of the Spirit. We gathered as the community of John the XXI in the cosmic embrace of: Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy, Barbara Ryland and George LeBlanc and Theresa Padovano.Mary Scaine led us in prayer with the following:O Parent of the Universe,manifesting thyself as generative energy,Bend over us and removeall that clutters our beingand set apart a placewhere thy sacredness may dwell. Fill us with thy creativity,so that we may be empowered to bearthe fruit of thy vision. Then, moving to the heartbeat of thy desire,make us the embodiment of thy compassion. Drawing from the ground of our humanitygrant that we may renew each otherwith love, understanding, and sustenance. Empty us of frustrated hopes and despair,as we restore others to a renewal of vision. And let us not fall into agitation,but save us from precipitous actions.For thou art the groundof the fruitful vision, the birthing-power, and the fulfilment,as all is gathered and made whole once again. Ameyn.As rendered by Mark Hathaway (www.visioncraft.org) based on the work of Neil Douglas-Klotz (www.abwoon.com - Prayers of the Cosmos, Harper & Row, 1990). Terry & Fred responded: Not being familiar with the poem A Summer Day by Mary Oliver mentioned in our discussion today, we looked it up and actually found another of her poems that may even better reflect our discourse. The following is the poem entitled The Journey.One day you finally knew what you had to do, and began, though the voices around you kept shouting their bad advice - - - though the whole house began to tremble and you felt the old tug at your ankles. 'Mend my life!' each voice cried. But you didn't stop. You knew what you had to do, though the wind pried with its stiff fingers at the very foundations - - - though their melancholy was terrible.It was already late enough, and a wild night, and the road full of fallen branches and stones. But little by little, as you left their voices behind, the stars began to burn through the sheets of clouds, and there was a new voice, which you slowly recognized as your own, that kept you company as you strode deeper and deeper into the world, determined to do the only thing you could do - - - determined to save the only life you could save. This poem spoke to us of the literalism and confines of the religion of our childhood and the subsequent response to the awakenings of Vatican II, and as Nick said, our ongoing progression of learning. This thought helped us to realize that we were always evolving throughout those years following Vatican!!, and that now, after 2 years of being part of Dick’s education series, our readings and membership in the Community of John XXIII , we feel the tug of the spirit so much in our daily lives and we see life and the existence of the universe in relational terms. We see God as relational, and co-creating.Some of us also discussed the role of youth and their spiritual journeys. We, as we said, see our three children as very spiritual, but not in the sense that we grew up with. We actually learn from them in our conversations with them about how they see people, nature and animals, government and especially the environment. We are often humbled by their kindness to others and their thoughtfulness. We don’t think they need to name a God in their lives, although they admire Jesus and his teachings, because as Elaine said, they experience God, as we do in our daily lives.  Elaine wrote:While waiting in the doctor's office today for Francis who underewent a corneal transplant eye surgery, I was catching up on Carroll's book.   Even without having read ahead of time by Sunday his passage about the powerful Mea Culpa image which Terry mentioned, I appreciated Pat's bringing up this "unworthiness" attitude we Catholics seem to have inherited from a pre-Vatican church.               I know also that Francis agrees with all of you who expressed relief in leaving the priestly collar of separation behind.               I felt as if in Sunday's sharing we grappled with an issue together (Pat's question about her children) and came through to a clearer understanding, thanks also to Dick for his enlightening sharing.             I loved George's saying "It's wonderful to be grown up!"  I share the same experience.Here's the little book I mentioned and highly recommend:  God of Dirt, Mary Oliver and The Other Book of God by Thomas W. Mann.   And here's the quote on our fridge:  "When man writes he inscribes characters upon rock, leaf, paper, wood, or steel; when God writes, the characters He writes are living creatures.  There is one holy book, the sacred manuscript of nature, the only manuscript which can enlighten the reader."  Hazrat Inayat Khan, the Sufi Message.Pat & Nick:     Practicing Catholic was so insightful regarding our beginnings. The emphasis on UNWORTHINESS and GUILT placed such negativity, fear and false sense of self influencing our identity in the precious early formative years. All this was followed by the elitist invitation to be the chosen one, the best,  the perfect-the religious the priest. A challenge  today is finding opportunities to share with our adult children the beauty of the New Story, the New Cosmology and Science. Evident is a reaction of apathy influenced by the hurt of Institutional Thinking.-It was a joy to share with the group a sense of hope that the truth of the Spirit will find expression in a new paradigm. Our experience is limited but the pursuit of truth continues to evolve!Tony Wrote: Generally speaking, I continue to consider myself lucky to be part of this group, and I continue to see that (from one point of view) the paradigm shift involved in what we are doing will take a long time, while, (from another point of view)  I would say it is really expressing a spirituality that is and has been  in many ways  really very natural to me.Specifically I was struck by the fact that our children have not lived through the period of Vatican II and earlier, and therefore we need to understand this in order to know how to treat and deal with them.  And  so, our Catholicism is really very different from  them and ALSO  from so many other Catholics of our own age and time, who are not following our "cosmic" approach.  The day after our cyber/virtual meeting, I had a three hour meeting with four Polish former priests who are all very far from our views, yet I should also say that the day before our call, I met for two hours with a former priest (and current well known theologian) who ( to my way of thinking)  is even ahead of them. We concluded with the anticipation of meeting again on September 20, 2009. We will continue reading:Practicing Catholic:            From chapters Four through Seven of James Carroll’s book, what events, personalities, struggles or admissions most parallel your own growth as an adult concerned participant in the Community of John X.III Submitted by Mary Scaine   General Info Mon, 07 Sep 2009 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=95ED7F78-FFE2-C712-13E8C8BC3429A54D http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=0C6FBB3C-FFE2-C712-13CB9B0FE0E1761C  The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, June 21, 2009 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Vicki Di Benedetto, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy, Barbara Ryland and George LeBlanc Community of John XXIII COMMENTS/AGENDA Chapter 9. Creator Spirit in the Evolving World (New Cosmology)Introduction: The New cosmology views creation as our home and building a new creation as our task. Comment on any of the following questions:1.      Do we view creation as essentially sacred and nourishing or flawed and tainted by original sin?2.      By what act is “original sin” said to be transmitted? What implications does this have for the feminine? 3.      In the Fall/Redemption model (Atonement), Jesus is identified primarily as “Savior.” In the Evolutionary Model, how would you identify Jesus?4.      When we break bread in the Eucharist, do we “receive” God as a personal savior who saves us from sin and regains “heaven” for us, or is it a “yes” to co-creative participation the Spirit of ‘new possibilities” in the here and now? Draw out some implications and practical suggestions to your answer.Chapter 10. TrinityIntroduction: The Trinitarian formula invites discussion on the Incarnation, the Church, and the inherent practicality of viewing God this way. Comment on any of the following: Comment on this statement: The Incarnation is not simply about the divine becoming human, but about humanity giving flesh to the Spirit of new evolutionary possibilities (the human becoming divine). Comment on the following: The task of the Church is to enable us to become fully human instead of “to mediate God.” The more human we become, the more divinity is recognized. We do not address God as much as we express God. Elizabeth Johnson states (p.222 ff.) that the doctrine of the Trinity is inherently practical. From your faith experience, how is this so? Suggestion  for the next book- Practicing Catholic by James Carroll, Boston and N.Y.: Haughton, Miflin, Harcourt, 2009.                Richard and Mary ScaineMary called us forth in the Creative Spirit.............O Parent of the Universe,manifesting thyself as generative energy,Bend over us and removeall that clutters our beingand set apart a placewhere thy sacredness may dwell. Fill us with thy creativity,so that we may be empowered to bearthe fruit of thy vision. Then, moving to the heartbeat of thy desire,make us the embodiment of thy compassion. Drawing from the ground of our humanitygrant that we may renew each otherwith love, understanding, and sustenance. Empty us of frustrated hopes and despair,as we restore others to a renewal of vision. And let us not fall into agitation,but save us from precipitous actions.For thou art the groundof the fruitful vision, the birthing-power, and the fulfilment,as all is gathered and made whole once again. Ameyn.As rendered by Mark Hathaway (www.visioncraft.org) based on the work of Neil Douglas-Klotz (www.abwoon.com - Prayers of the Cosmos, Harper & Row, 1990). Francis' response:  It was revealing to hear comments on original sin, -- the history of this teaching and juxtaposing original sin with the "Original Blessing" of creation  (Matthew Fox' expression.)I welcome our new book for the next session, -- James Carroll's Practicing Catholic!  I will be happy rereading it!Elaine's response: In addition to a brief discussion of Jesus' role according to the "Evolutionary Model" as opposed to the "Atonement Theory Model," many commented on the damaging effects of the pre-Vatican teaching about original sin.  Some said it unfortunately still holds sway in the popular imagination of some Catholics.  I found Vicki's observation very insightful, -- that though the view may seem positive -- that Baptism is the rite for receiving new members into the community, -- does this not imply, Vicki asked, that they were outside the community beforehand, when in reality, as Terry pointed out, -- according to the beautifully illustrated children's book -- On the Day You Were Born by Debra Frasier, -- all of creation welcomed the newborn "into the family of things!" as  Mary Oliver puts it.George & Valerie LeBlanc wrote: I agree that the child is ALREADY a member of the community, but in my opinion the parish community and the parents have a right to share their joy and celebration of this fact with their fellow family members at the parish Mass.  I do NOT agree that this celebration implies the child is not already God's child.Fred & Terry wrote: It seemed to us that we were all in agreement as to the negative aspects of the doctrine of original sin. We particularly feel, as some others do, that much of that negativity is a result of the pervading attitude toward women even up to the twentieth century  when new mothers were still ”churched” because they were the contaminated birth vessel rather than the vessel through which  new life emerges, an expression of the ongoing life of creation. We thought Vicki’s question about why we need to welcome the child into the community when it has already been welcomed by the creative universal community was well put. The book I mentioned that illustrates this so beautifully is On the Day You Were Born by Debra Frasier.We both see Jesus, not as a savior, but as a revolutionary (perhaps a revolutionary dreamer) who was viewed by the domination system of the time as a threat, but through his death did not save, but opened himself and us to the life of the Spirit alive in us and all of creation.  He did not have to suffer to “get” it for us---he revealed to us that it was and is always there. We also see Jesus as a loving father, mother, sibling, friend---a loving connector—who said, “Fear not, for I am always with you.”Vicki's Responded: What a relief to know that we don't have big black spots on our souls, if unbaptized!  Though I never really believed it, and used to say often, that I thought "original sin" was the tendency to control others.  Being part of the planetary community of "godlings" is the vision to pass down to our children as it is so pregnant with possibilities and hope.   I wonder if each of us is meant to create our own heaven.  My late husband, Romeo, being Italian to the core, used to joke about what he wanted to eat there!  Maybe we are meant to take the responsibility of a universe... eventually. Like the little girl who smiled and looked up to heaven every time lightning struck, because God was taking her picture, this life thing goes on and on and every moment an unpredictable turn of events!  Alleluia! Hello, Mary and Dick, Here are my comments related to yesterday's conversation: I feel blessed to be part of this community. The comments shared yesterday were all so enriching. Especially insightful were the discussions of the cruciform pattern in all life and the comments on the concept of original sin vs original blessing.I look forward to our next meeting! BarbaraOur next meeting was scheduled for the 3rd Sunday in July. We all agreed to read  the first three chapters of James Carroll's book Practicing Catholic.        General Info Tue, 11 Aug 2009 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=0C6FBB3C-FFE2-C712-13CB9B0FE0E1761C http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=06EFA9A8-FFE2-C712-1308FB4F85D904FD The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, May 17, 2009 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn,  Vicki Di Benedetto, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy). And new members Pat and Nick Mosunic from PA. Community of John XXIII COMMENTS/AGENDA Questions for Discussion for Sunday May 17th Tele-Conference CallChapter 71. The concept of “mixing” (mestizaje) represents a border reality where people have a foot in two worlds, blending together in themselves not only different races, but also different cultures and religious traditions.From your reading of chapter seven, or from your own experience, what positive gifts or contributions do Latino/Latina people bring to the North American cultural and religious table?2. Most agree that the church has submerged the Holy Spirit; the Spirit released by Vatican II has been curtailed. However, the Spirit flows where it wills and alternatives are providing new possibilities. Chapter seven insists that “references to the Mary of the Gospels are notably absent in connection with devotion to Our Lady of Guadalupe. To whom, then, is such a devotion directed? What implications does this have? Could this be a major contribution to the Church? Chapter 8 The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith warned in Dominus Jesus, 2002, that Christians must maintain the salvific role of Jesus Christ which is “unique and singular, proper to him alone, exclusive, universal and absolute.” This statement means that the Catholic Church alone has an indispensable relation to the salvation of every human being.Chapter eight indicates that a number of people in dialogue with major Eastern traditions now reason that the lens for looking at these traditions should be a theology of the Holy Spirit, rather accenting Jesus as ‘Savior” and the Church as vehicle of salvation for all. How does this approach change the nature of the dialogue? Do you believe Jesus is the “Savior” (Atonement theology) or “Revealer” (Immanence)? cf. Dian Eck, pp.171-174). Mary and RichardFacilitators, JohnXXIII Community Mary Scaine let us in prayer: O Parent of the Universe,manifesting thyself as generative energy,Bend over us and removeall that clutters our beingand set apart a placewhere thy sacredness may dwell. Fill us with thy creativity,so that we may be empowered to bearthe fruit of thy vision. Then, moving to the heartbeat of thy desire,make us the embodiment of thy compassion. Drawing from the ground of our humanitygrant that we may renew each otherwith love, understanding, and sustenance. Empty us of frustrated hopes and despair,as we restore others to a renewal of vision. And let us not fall into agitation,but save us from precipitous actions.For thou art the groundof the fruitful vision, the birthing-power, and the fulfilment,as all is gathered and made whole once again. Ameyn.As rendered by Mark Hathaway (www.visioncraft.org) based on the work ofNeil Douglas-Klotz (www.abwoon.com - Prayers of the Cosmos, Harper & Row,1990).   It was our privilege to share with you all on May 17.In our life experience, the Latina community is vibrant, filled with passion, compassion &joy. In Feb. working  in Ensenada, Mexico with families of children with cleft palate, underlined the Spirit of hope& understanding within the marginalized poor. We were elated to participate with John XXIII, sharing such special memories &experiences-a real "canto y flor."       What a grateful sense of relief it was to see in Elizabeth Johnson's writings as well as the community's support in seeing God operative everywhere &not confined by definition to the limitations of any one church. The mutuality in the values of the book &of the community is for us a true "Glimpse of God".         Nick &Pat    Elaine'sI really appreciated comments on the Fiesta material by at least five members of our community who've had firsthand experience with our Latina/Latino brothers and sisters!   I'm glad Dick repeated his question - "What will the church look like in 40 years?" and resonated with his hopeful comment that the Dominus Jesus document provided the final nails in "the coffin"  that will be buried in 30- 60 years.  Francis'It was encouraging to hear cogent reasons to move away from the narrow claims that the RC Church is the sole source of Divine access.  All of us know this to be true but it is helpful to discuss it.  Dear Community of John 23, This recent event of the silencing of Roger Haight is linked to Chapter 8 of Elizabeth Johnson's "Quest for the Living God."  And in the spirit of our conversation today, I think it is fitting to join in the May 11th prayer created  in the wake of the decision of the CDF  to silence Fr.  Roger Haight, who is acknowledged on p. xii of  the "Quest for the Living God" and whose ideas play an important role  in chapter 8. Tony Hi, Mary and Dick,   As you requested, I'm sending you the excerpt from the letter I received from the Bishop and read to our group on Sunday: "Vicki, you know what I see when I look at this group?  I see men who began with a vision and an ideal and a commitment to walk a difficult path.  That is a reflection of their generosity and in some cases heroism.  Then I see those same men, facing tremendous difficulties, had the courage to make a change and go in a different direction, in most cases, starting a whole new career twenty years behind the competition.  Next, I see women who had the courage and the insight to recognize that these men are extraordinarily fine persons and to join them in journeying together while still living within that Mystical Body.  Finally, I see a group of men and women who pulled together many virtues and on top of everything had the gifts of humor and light-heartedness.   Altogether, it is a grand sight. Your friend, Bishop John McCarthy"  A couple of weeks ago, I attended a talk at the University of Texas by Prof. Norman Finklestein on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  There were about 400 students and others attending.  He has spent over 30 years speaking out about the conflict.  His view is that the official Israeli foreign policy is to maintain a "fear deterrent".  In other words, they feel that keeping everyone around them terrorized is the only way to keep themselves safe.  This policy gives them the right to inflict "collateral damage" on their enemies, killing defenseless, innocent civilians, especially women and children, in large numbers. Prof. Finklestein quoted several Israeli top governmental officials to back up that view, and he quoted several human rights' groups that have investigated the claims of the Israelis that Hamas has used human shields, etc.  They have concluded that the Israeli claims are not true for the most part.  (One case had occurred.)   I noticed that the U.N. concurred with what he said last week and chastised the Israeli government for their intransigence.  And finally, Pope Benedict has spoken out.   With Obama supporting the 2 state solution now, I'm wondering if we are reaching "critical mass".  Thank you for your articles on this issue, Dick,  as they have sure helped me to understand more, and have motivated my prayers. Also, I'm so pleased that Pat and Nick have joined our group.  They are dear people with invaluable insights. Blessings and peace, Vicki We concluded and planned to meet on June 22, 2009 Posted by Mary Scaine  General Info Mon, 10 Aug 2009 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=06EFA9A8-FFE2-C712-1308FB4F85D904FD http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=E2CD96EA-FFCA-0324-077B320B7CE600F8 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, April 5, 2009 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Bob Charpentier, Theresa Padovano, John Warner, Vicki Di Benedetto, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy).John Warner led us in prayer with the following: It is a prayer of Joyce Rupp from May I Have This Dance? entitled 'Watered Gardens' God of little birds just now wearing green sleevesGod of lilac limbs all full with signs of floweringGod of fields plowed and black with turned-over earthGod of screeching baby bird mouths widely awaiting food God of openness, of life and of resurrectionCome into this Easter season and bless meLook around the tight, dead spaces of my heartThat still refuse to give you an entrance Bring your gentle but firm loveBegin to lift the layers of resistanceThat hang on tightly deep inside of me Open, one by one, those places in my lifeWhere I refuse to be overcome by surpriseOpen, one by one, those parts of my heartWhere I fight the entrance of real growthOpen, one by one, those aspects of my spiritWhere my security struggles with the truth Keep me open to the different and the strangeHelp me to accept the unusual and also the ordinaryNever allow me to tread on others' dreamsBy shutting them out, closing them upBy turning them off or pushing them away God of Resurrection, God of the livingUntomb and uncover all that needs to live in meTake me to people, events, and situationsAnd stretch me into much greater openness Open me. Open me. Open meFor it is only then that I will grow and changeFor it is only then that I will be transformedFor it is only then that I will know how it isTo be in the moment of rising from the deadFred & Terry responded:              John’s prayer at the beginning of our discussion spoke of the openness of creation—the openness of the Spirit. It seems that we all are searching for ways to BE open to the Spirit and to live our commitments to relatedness, justice-making and mutual collaboration. Some of us spoke of the ways we have recently found to be of some assistance to others, either by our physical presence, or by our material or spiritual support. It’s apparent that we are all OPEN to doing this and to responding to the Spirit as it evolves in our lives.  When we spoke about the church of the future and how young people respond to the spirit, it occurred to us that they do so, not because they are thinking of “living the gospel”, but because they relate to others (regardless of race, religion or gender) , they are very concerned with justice and truth, and are very collaborative, especially when helping those in their immediate communities and/or the environment or the needs of the poor. This may be the church of the future, but without the “name” church---but with the experience of openness to the needs of others and with a spirituality that responds to the beauty of the world around them and the inner beauty of other people all over the world.For those who are interested in the organization we spoke about (involving 2 young women who are devoting themselves to the poor in Haiti in amazingly creative ways)—the link to their website and their address is:SOIL 124 Church Rd. Sherburne N.Y. 13460---here is the link I found-- http://www.oursoil.org/For those interested in the organization First Friends (those seeking asylum in this country and have become detainees) where Fred volunteers, here is the link:http://www.irateweb.org/firstfriends.htmBob’s Reflection:Reflecting on our time together April 5, 2009, I found Bonheoffer’s metaphor of the runaway chariot helpful. Charity or justice? Bonheoffer suggests it can be both/and: help the injured and figure out some way of stopping the runaway. Seems to me this is a variation on, "act locally, think globally." I was touched by the responses in the group and emails to do something about a specific situation, Haiti, by members of the community .Thinking, reflection leading to action. I like it! As wonderful as our monthly conversations related to suggested readings are, they do not necessarily lead to action -at least for me. This is something I need to pay closer attention to, i.e., musing, reflecting and on to action. --Bob Charpentier  As I listened intently to all the generous and beautiful perspectives of our members, I reflected on how many years ago, as I felt the leadership of our Church go astray, I reasoned that the Popes, and many Catholic clergy, probably never experienced true solidarity with the poor, probably never walked the walk without their titles and robes.  How could they say such things and worse, promulgate them?       I don't believe Jesus ever intended to start a "Church" as we know "Church" today, but that His Divine Spirit would flow in every household and community, through natural and inspired leaders, who respond to and reflect what He stood for and taught, all working, in one way or another, regardless of affiliation, to bring forth the reign of God on this planet and beyond.   I rejoice in the opportunity of being included in the Community of John XXIII.  We are all "Sparks from the Fire"!  In gratitude, Vicki Di Benedetto  Dear Friends, I beg your forgiveness for being a bit out of the loop.  Having been missing from the conference calls for two months, I was a bit clueless as to the book we were to discussing.  After speaking to Dick and Mary, I promise to be more on board in future.            I was able to connect with the question about what scriptures texts were helpful in times of stress.  With my work with Voice of the Faithful, we are often denied use of Catholic institutions by the bishops and even some religious communities without any real cause.  So the quotes from the Gospel of John mean a great deal to me.  John 15: 18---27:  "They hate me without reason."  "As servant is not greater than his/her master."  "As they persecuted me, they will persecute you..."  John 16 2--"They will ban you from the synagogue’ indeed, the time is coming when anyone who kills you will suppose that he is performing a religious duty..."   Well, no one has been physically killed, by they have labeled VOTF/NJ as "anti-catholic and anti-church” without cause and without knowing the wonderful Catholics that they condemn.   Ah, so! Theresa Padovano  Elaine & Francis McGillicuddy wrote:Francis':I appreciated the gem of a prayer John contributed.  Thanks also to Bob for highlighting the definition of spirituality, namely, living the gospel, inspired by the Spirit, accompanied by others. Elaine:Ditto to the above!I responded to Bob's imagining the future of the Catholic Church (Dick's question), as -- "a community of communities" in which "thanksgiving - the Eucharist" will still be central.I was also moved by Fred and Theresa's sharing that the scriptural source that speaks to them is the beatitudes, - as Theresa quoted:  "They will put you out of the synagogues."I appreciate that as a community we're increasingly sensitive to justice issues and it's also good that Linda pointed out there's also 3rd world poverty right here in the US. Sorry to be so tardy-- Linda Pinto wrote: I felt especially challenged during our faith sharing. We were asked to model the church we envision in the next forty years. I have become settled and satisfied that I can only become the change I want to see. So, my church is here and now and with the prayerful discernment with my Community. That being said, my outreach is quite local. I have become extra sensitive to the suffering around me. This crucifixion is not physical but takes on many forms: the unemployed, the battered, the lonely, and the desperate. Tony from (Italy) responded: One  important effect of the conference is that I am trying to  integrate more deeply the three goals of our community into the reality of my daily life a life largely devoted to teaching. As usual I am impressed with the personal experiences of our members.We adjourned the conference call and are contemplating changing the date to the third Sunday in May, which is May 17, 2009. (Submitted by Mary Scaine) General Info Sun, 26 Apr 2009 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=E2CD96EA-FFCA-0324-077B320B7CE600F8 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=53562AC2-FFCA-0324-07CC6BE5D3C20AA0 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a tele-Conference call on Sunday, March 8, 2009 in the presence of: Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy, John Warner, Bob Charpentier and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy).Mary Scaine led us in prayer with the following:Prayer to the Holy (Cosmic) SpiritCome Holy Spirit, breathe down upon our troubled world. Shake the tired foundations of our crumbling institutions. Break the rules that keep you out of all our sacred spaces, and from the dust and rubble, gather up the seedlings of a new creation.  Come Holy Spirit, enflame once more the dying embers of our weariness. Shake us out of our complacency. Whisper our names once more, and scatter your gifts of grace with wild abandon. Break open the prisons of our inner being, and let your raging justice be our sign of liberty.  Come Holy Spirit and lead us to places we would rather not go. Expand the horizons of our limited imaginations. Awaken in our souls dangerous dreams for new tomorrow, and rekindle in our hearts the fire of prophetic enthusiasm.  Come Holy Spirit, whose justice outwits international conspiracy, whose light outshines religious bigotry, whose peace can halt our patriarchal hunger for dominance and control, whose promise invigorates out every effort: to create a new heaven and a new earth, now and forever.  Amen. Diarmuid O’ Murchu            Mary and Dick Scaine offered the following selection on our ongoing discussion of Quest for the LIVING GOD: Mapping Frontiers in the Theology of God by Elizabeth A. Johnson. (Available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com)Chapter 31.      Moltmann, Soelle and Metz have different perspectives on suffering. Which, from your experience, has particular appeal? Why? Are there any other perspectives you would like to share?Where is the presence of God in such darkness?  Can you share an experience?  Chapter 42.      Starting in mid twentieth century Brazil, and quickly spreading throughout Latin America, a pastoral movement to revitalize faith among people began to gather them into small groups. Here they read scriptures, prayerfully reflected on its meaning in relation to their situation, and began to act together for change. Do you think these progressive base communities should and would work in North America?   Comment on Elizabeth Johnson’s statement that church is not primarily an institution for promotion of individual piety and moral living. What do you think is its primary purpose?  Elaine's response: I greatly appreciated every shared story of suffering experienced by members of our community today, e.g., how Bob's grief over the suicide of a young relative evolved from a Moltman-like response of God grieving with him to a Metz-like response of lamenting.  Also, Dick's comments on the political theologians' views, esp. Dorothee Soelle's "non-forceful silent cry as an urge to the future," and her understanding of Transcendence as not separate from us, but "beyond us as a lure."  Having read her Theology for Skeptics, I will follow up on Dick's recommendation to read Political Theology and Suffering.  Francis' response: I appreciated Bob's clarification of spirituality being Jesus and me and you.  Spirituality begins with one's individual experience and then moves on to seek justice for others who are downtrodden. Terry& FredWe feel that yesterday's discussion may have evolved into a real experience of collective compassion, in the telling of various stories of loss, death, and sad and/or emotional happenings. We had just returned from a very effective discussion at the Inclusive Community during which some of us articulated that though we had experienced sometimes very difficult circumstances, we felt that what we term "God' had nothing to do with it,-- certainly that God had not caused or “let" it happen. We also feel a real affinity with Jesus who experienced great suffering and also all the other emotions that are so much a part of our lives.  Having both worked in the inner city where poverty was and still is so much a part of people's lives, we also identify with liberation theology and its relation to the suffering and compassionate Jesus. TonyI suspect that I see God (sense that I am somehow closer to God) more in my own suffering that in that of others.  This would seem to be true even though my own suffering (concretely or abstractly?) is rather small.  I wonder what this means.  We finished the conference call by selecting Chapter 5, God Acting Womanish and Chapter 6, God Who Breaks Chains for our next conference call which will be on April 5, 2009 @ 2:30 p.m.     General Info Sun, 29 Mar 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=53562AC2-FFCA-0324-07CC6BE5D3C20AA0 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=C3960451-FFCA-0324-07CB294CB41818E7 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a tele-Conference call on Sunday, February 8, 2009 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Babara Ryland, George LeBlanc, John Warner, Vicki Di Benedetto, Bob Charpentier and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy).We were led in prayer by Terry Quinn: Prayer Holy God who is real – not the all-powerful "lord" of everything or the sentimentally sweet old father in the sky but true Ultimate Mystery:  it is your real creature's voice you hear, the soul of my soul speaking in words and beyond words.  I sometimes fill the void between us with verbalizations like these: it's a bridge into the comfort of your silent nearness.   But my soul's soul knows the language of silence as well, and, behold, my prayer: myself.  Amen.Dick and Mary prepared the following questions for our consideration and discussion: Quest for the LIVING GOD: Mapping Frontiers in the Theology of Godby Elizabeth A. Johnson.Quest for God: Chapters I &II1.      What were your earliest experiences of the sacred, as a child? What are your experiences of the sacred as now, as an adult? 2.      What is atheism and in your mind what kind of God is usually denied by atheists? In what sense was God declared dead?   (Page 15 ff)3.      Elizabeth Johnson speaks of Incarnation and Grace as the self-communicating gift pulsing out from depths of the Divine Being. (Page 39) For you, is the Incarnation a matter of God’s initiative in becoming human (emphasizing Jesus’ godliness) or should the accent be placed on Jesus incarnating God (emphasizing Jesus’ humanity)? In the first, Incarnation becomes a doctrine about Jesus as God and he is worshipped as such. In the second, Incarnation becomes a task for all to accomplish in that we give concrete expression to the Spirit within us). God then, becomes human, so that humans can become God. (Page 30 ff)4.      Do you prefer Dominican (Thomas Aquinas) or the Franciscan (Duns Scotus) position regarding the purpose for the Incarnation? 5.      Karl Rahner insists that “the devout Christian of the future will either be a ‘mystic’ one who has ‘experienced’ something, or he/she will cease to be anything at all.” What, do you think, is to be experienced? (Page 44)6.      Comment on Elizabeth Johnson’s statement that church is not primarily an institution for promotion of individual piety and moral living. What do you think is its primary purpose?  (Page 45). We received the following responses:    Though many of the participants’ early experiences of the sacred were devotional, while others were not sure of what sacred might have meant to them, all seemed to have evolved into an introspective, experiential awareness of what was called “God.” God, who was a noun when we were younger, has evolved into a verb, which is relational. The relational includes connections between people (familial love as well as love in friendship and love expressed in the caring of others and the earth). Jesus calls us all into incarnation as we express our openness to the living intuitive spirit alive on this earth, the universe and beyond. So we all figuratively “take off our shoes” because “we’re standing on holy ground.” Terry & FredThis first conf call was for me a serious event in my quest for the "living God."  There are many reasons for making this statement.  One of them is the framework and perspective it afforded me in dealing with the recent theism/atheism debate. Another is that it has made so many of the "little things" of daily life meaningful, leading to some amount of satisfaction. Tony from Italy responded:             I apologize for this being a week late -if you are unable to include it that is OK- The group call last Sun. was very energizing. I was inspired by our conversation and especially helped by Dick's comments. The points that resonated with me are how we experience God as a verb and also how this is found in the matrix of all relationships. I look forward to our next meeting. BarbaraLinda’s responseI especially appreciated journeying with the Community. To recall the "God" of my youth and discover how far I have come is inspiring. I was especially moved by Bob's Song of Songs that everything is sacred. The barren trees, the biting cold, the icy roads....everything is sacred.             We concluded our discussion and scheduled our next teleconference for Sunday March 9, @ 2:30 p.m.                                      General Info Sun, 01 Mar 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=C3960451-FFCA-0324-07CB294CB41818E7 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=C6AF2F25-FFCA-0324-07F6A7A00B371F05 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a tele-Conference call on Sunday, January 4, 2009 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Babara Ryland, George LeBlanc, John Warner, Vicki Di Benedetto, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy). Mary Scaine led us in prayer with the following: Prayer to the Holy (Cosmic) Spirit Come Holy Spirit, breathe down upon our troubled world. Shake the tired foundations of our crumbling institutions. Break the rules that keep you out of all our sacred spaces, and from the dust and rubble, gather up the seedlings of a new creation. Come Holy Spirit, enflame once more the dying embers of our weariness. Shake us out of our complacency. Whisper our names once more, and scatter your gifts of grace with wild abandon. Break open the prisons of our inner being, and let your raging justice be our sign of liberty. Come Holy Spirit and lead us to places we would rather not go. Expand the horizons of our limited imaginations. Awaken in our souls dangerous dreams for new tomorrow, and rekindle in our hearts the fire of prophetic enthusiasm. Come Holy Spirit, whose justice outwits international conspiracy, whose light outshines religious bigotry, whose peace can halt our patriarchal hunger for dominance and control, whose promise invigorates out every effort: to create a new heaven and a new earth, now and forever. Amen. Diarmuid O’ Murchu Mary and Dick Scaine offered the following selection for our discussion: Heaven The Late Middle Ages accented heaven as an afterlife preceded by a judgment from a God who is supposed to love us unconditionally. Largely based on fear, this view inclined Luther and most other Catholics of this time to confess very frequently. Luther often confessed multiple times a day. Feeling guilty and unworthy, many “received Communion” only once a year. Hence the order to “receive Communion” as an Easter duty. In the first three Gospels, Jesus rarely mentions the “afterlife.” In fact, he rarely refers to himself in these Gospels. Rather, the accent is on the New Reign of God, a Kingdom of peace, justice, inclusivity and compassion in the here and now. It is the alternative to the Roman domination of his time. Discussion: Do we primarily think of the Kingdom of heaven as “up or out there” (after life) or primarily as Kindom of peace and justice in the here and now? Linda Pinto responded: Transforming our sense of heaven and hell from the hereafter to the here and now entails an embrace of justice, compassion and peace. This means I must live my life with the momentary awareness that it is precious. I must also be involved in issues which may seem remote, but affect us all. These range from the pending inaugural of Barack Obama with it's sweeping sense of change to my active involvement in the political crisis in the mid-East. I am left with Dick's challenge: If I was sincere in my belief in the Resurrection, I would embrace much more risk. What touched Elaine during our January 4, 2009 tele-gathering: 1) Barbara's expression about heaven as "being open to places of creativity: to engage with it." 2) Linda's honesty about the challenge of growing into new paradigms. (Personal note: I love the journey of being powerful drawn into a new way of seeing, but am also amazed at how long it takes to really sink in, -- how deep and long the journey is!) 3) Dick's always welcomed enlightening comments: a) how Luke's version challenged Matthew's: The "Kingdom" is more than "within you." It's -- "among you." b) Resurrection as not a rising to but a transformation of who we are. 4) Mary's quoting Martin Buber re the need to retire the word "God" since "It's got blood all over it!" (Personal note: I haven't been able to use the word "God" comfortably for years!) Francis' comment: The most prominent aspect of the hour for me, was the fact that Dick introduced the Israeli-Palestinian issue as a justice and peace issue, and said that those who protest injustice are working toward the kingdom. Terry and Fred's Comments about conference 1-04-09: The kingdom is the kingdom of the ongoing Spirit----among us and through us as we strive for community within our own environs and as we try to positively affect the world community of peace and justice. We try to think about "What am I doing about this now?" We liked the thought about the kingdom being one of unending discovery and creativity. This connects to resurrection not being "a rising up" but a transformation of who we are. Barbara replied: The Sun. meeting of our Community was thought -provoking and inspiring. I definitely feel that heaven is here-within and without and that we are called to assist in its creation with actions for peace and justice. George LeBlanc recalled: Reflections on the Sunday, Jan 4 conference call: Thoughts running thru my mind. "Being discovered; discovering; not being alone; kin-dom & connectedness; the struggle to yield to be changed (transformed); hope; endless discovery." Tony Marotta wrote: 1) Sincere explanations of lived Christian life (Kingdom of God on earth) were inspirational for me. 2) Mention of the Gaza/Palestinian problem as a "Peace and Justice" issue was most welcome to me. 3) It is always powerful when (toward the end of the call) Dick gives his comments - that pull things together and deepens the context. 4) When it became clear to me that I wanted to make a final contribution, it was too close to the end, so I will now say what I wanted to say then. From one point of view, the word "Kingdom" tends to turn me and others off, in that we live in the 21st century, and it can be difficult to identify with it. I like to use the word "Kindom" - which sees our Christian life in relational terms. For me Heaven is essentially linked to others. Spirituality for me must be lived in a social context - with and amid other people, and now, as part of John 23, it must be lived in a cosmic context - with all aspects of the universe. Mary and Dick asked the group to consider the book by Elizabeth Johnson as a springboard for discussion for upcoming conference calls: The name of the book: Quest for the LIVING GOD: Mapping Frontiers in the Theology of God by Elizabeth A. Johnson. (Available at Barnes & Noble and Amazon.com) There was a decision made in favor of reading the book. We finished the conference call by selecting chapter I and 2 for our next conference call which will be on February 8, 2009 @ 2:30 p.m.        General Info Sun, 11 Jan 2009 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=C6AF2F25-FFCA-0324-07F6A7A00B371F05 http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=798E1B5A-FFCA-0324-076DF5D2B3C161DE The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, December 6th 2008 present were: Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Bob Charpentier, John Warner, Allen and Sylvia Moore and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy). Mary Scaine led the community with the following prayer: A Prayer In The Spirit Of The Prayer Of Jesus Holy Becoming, whom we call by so many different names, Blessed are you. Blessed are we in you. May we create with you a realm of mercy, peace and justice. May love be done in the here and now as it is in the infinite. May we share life in bread and hope. For our failures to love, we need forgiveness. May we find the paths of reconciliation. In the midst of evil's every incarnation, From the powers that possess our spirits and our structures, May we find liberation. In the power that is love, we seek to live and move and have our being. May it be so, now and forever, AMEN. by the Rev. Nancy L. Steeves A new paradigm (lens, outlook, worldview) is demanded when the old paradigm can longer handle the questions posed in a new situation. The New Cosmology suggests that we let go of old perceptions from our childhood religious training. What perceptions of previous (earlier) training are we not only willing to admit as childish but willing to leave behind? Today’s reflection is on question #5 #5 Jesus: Is he my personal Savior through whom I am saved in the Fall/Redemption model or is he the invitation to abundant life and a new consciousness as in the evolutional model. Tony wrote: The conference call was another powerful sharing of ideas and spirit. A sharing of experience and of the mind. Particularly important was what was said about our relation to Christ. The carefully expressed truthfulness of the participants, who have all spent a lifetime of living the mystery of Christianity, was experienced by all, and we were bonded in a special way as a result. This bonding was more important for me, (living in another part of the world) since I have so few occasions to experience it. I was pleased with Dick's distinction of "kind" and "degree" referring to our relation to Christ. Fred and Terry wrote: Rather than the sacrificial offering so prevalent in our past, we realize that in the celebration of a meal and the words spoken together, we release the divine spirit emerging from our collective and creative humanity. This celebration or Eucharist happens daily as we live our very human and divine lives. Allen Moore a responded: Ritual and symbolism is important as we think about things like church, sacraments and especially our relationship with the Cosmic Christ. They aren't intellectual - they feed the right brain, they whirl and morph and change as we need them. I shouldn't throw them away but carry them with me like a lump of clay I keep re-shaping. I liked what Dick said about "Problems are for the mind..." I'll add, ritual and symbolism are for life and the heart." We spoke of the love and life we are. Since we are geographically separated it was suggested we might want to get together and bring life to some third world family through the Heifer program. Just send you donation to Allen and Sylvia and we’ll do the book work - confidentiality promised. We've set the deadline for contributions on Dec. 15th. Allen and Sylvia Moore 2380 Mule Deer Rd Sedona, AZ 96336 John Warner responded with the following inspiring poems: Mary, Thanks to you for your hard work for the John XXIII community. I am attaching the two poems I cited during our call. Sophia is a step-grandchild who was born to my step-daughter, Jean. Again, I appreciated out time together and the level of sharing and caring. I think of the quote of Irenaeus, "The glory of God is man (sic) fully alive". May we share in the Incarnation's birthing of the Christ in our hearts and our world even as we acknowledge the Presence already alive in our universe/cosmos. Peace and blessings, John 2nd Sun. of Advent: Is.40: 1-3, 9-11/ Ps.85/ 2nd Peter 3:8-14/ Mk 1:1 12/7/08 By John Warner On this snowy and cold Sunday of Advent, we come again to pray Soon, very soon, we’ll be greeting each other on Christmas day Isaiah says God offers comfort, as Jerusalem’s service comes to an end Our Shepherd speaks tenderly to us, as our broken hearts are on the mend A voice in the desert points to the time when mountains are made low The windings are made straight, the valleys are leveled, and new ways we come to know John the Baptist’s message is one of repentance and forgiveness of sin Through water and the Spirit we are saved, no matter what state of mind we’re in The mission of all Christians is to proclaim to the world the Gospel’s good news We are a community in our diversity and truly one despite our divergent views The coming Day of the Lord will happen with flames and with fire We welcome the new heavens and new earth with devotion and desire May we prepare well with patience, peace and purity for the upcoming memorial of Christ’s birth May we pursue the promise, whole and holy, ever attentive to the wonder of our worth Blessings of peace, love, and joy To every man and woman, girl and boy The Gift of Sophia 2/3&5/9/02 By John Warner Birthing is a painful process But pregnant with meaning and new life Birthing is the becoming of a new being A glorious gift of a gracious God The willing wisdom from the womb is almost overwhelming The stirring surprise of Sophia gives extreme exhilaration Yes, ‘wisdom is born of pain’ as Anne Murray sings And God comes to us in small offerings and in sacrificial service Surviving suffering produces in us strength of soul Celebrating birth brings great gratitude Nine months of pondering in the process of pregnant pauses And later many mornings of nippled nurturing from blessed breasts Love’s longing flows freely to this innocent infant Life is unfolding for you now in wondrous ways You are welcomed into this humble home busy with blessings You are held tenderly with touch that heals those who hold you Your mother marvels at the miracle of YOU And pledges precious presence in hours and years of compassionate care Feeding, bathing, rocking, teaching you in rapt worshipful wonder The giver of life is gifted with wisdom beyond measure We concluded this awesome gathering and set our next conference call for the first Sunday in the New Year, January 4th, 2009. p.s. Sorry for the delay in posting this, but Dick gifted me with a new lap top for my birthday and I had to transfer all my files from one computer to another. I am gradually getting use to the new one, but I still miss (my friend) my old computer! A Happy Holy, Healthy, and Spiritual New Year to all on your Journey through Life! Mary & Dick Scaine General Info Sat, 27 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=798E1B5A-FFCA-0324-076DF5D2B3C161DE http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F3805D40-FFCA-0324-07316650D462D42B The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday, November 16, 2008 in the presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator, Mary and Dick Scaine, our Facilitators. Joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Bob Charpentier, Theresa Padovano, John Warner, Vicki Di Benedetto, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy and Tony Marotta (on Skype computer connection from Italy). Mary Scaine led us in the following prayer: Spirit God, in whom all things become one, Come as our source of renewal; Set us aflame with justice-making, that the Earth and all its ecologies shall not suffer extinction. Come, Holy Spirit, renew the whole of Creation, Help us to overcome violence, to end all discrimination and to remove barriers to justice. Amen Prayer composed by Wal Anderson, Pilgrim Church, Adelaide, September, 2003. Reproduced in Horne, B., Lockyer, A., & Wickham, S., (eds) Singing while it is still dark... a gift book of prayers and meditations for members of the South Australian Synod 2003. A Publication of Friends of Unity, 2003, p. 63. Linda and Elaine discussed the CTA National Conference weekend and the great line up of speakers including Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, Miriam Therese Winter, and Bishop Spong. . We reflected on and discussed question #4 Holy Communion: What do we receive when we “go to Communion”? Do we “receive God” in the way of a personal Savior or is it a “yes” to co-creative participation in the Spirit of “new possibilities” in the here and now? Terry & Fred’ reflection: We are energized by the spirit, which emerges each time we come together, re-igniting the spirit of Jesus. The Eucharist truly becomes "communion" without restrictions, but with possibilities, which emerge as we go on with our lives--- trying to enrich our own lives, the lives of others and the planet we live on. Vicki responded: When I think of Jesus at the Last Supper, he talked with his friends, looked into their hearts and connected. Remembering His words and actions, and as a result of today's nourishment, I now define the Eucharist as: Any connection of care and compassion in which we intensify our relationship with God within and all around us--animal, vegetable, mineral, quantuum and the cosmos. Gracias a "DIOS" Mary Warm greetings for this winter season! We just got off the phone with the community and my heart is full and my mind a bit overstimulated. I could have been with the group for hours without any problem and been 'turned on' and 'tuned in' with the positive and creative energies flowing thru the conversation. I had many thoughts, most of which I will not share here. Suffice it to say THANKS and Blessings to all. I am going to attempt to attach a poem or two to this missive, esp. the one I shared on Barack Obama. It was not really thought out that well, but came a bit spontaneously to me as I reflected on the experience of his election after wanting it so much. I am going to a celebration party tonight with some fellow Democrats who worked to get Ohio (finally) to vote for the best person. To have victory in Louisville(way too white and conservative for me), Ohio, was a great accomplishment in some ways. Also, was great to see more 'Catholics' voting for Barack than for McCain. My prayer (from my ordination card) is : To the extent of my power because I am a priest, I wish from now on to become conscious of all that the world loves, pursues, and suffers. Again, thanks to you and the community of care and compassion for all that you are and do. Peace, shalom, salam, pas/pax, and namaste, John Elaine and Francis’ response: On our November 16 telegathering: I agree with Bob that our sharing in community is itself a gathering of Thanksgiving, which means "Eucharist.” And I'm so grateful to Dick who said we need to move beyond only the "anthropocentric" in our celebration of Eucharist. To pursue this flash of insight his comment gave me, I pulled out CORPUS Reports which feature Dick's two articles: (Sept/Oct 2007) - "The Eucharist in an Evolutionary Perspective;" and (May/June, 2008) "The Cosmic Christ" and reread them. As I mentioned, I highly recommend two small books by Margaret Galiardi, OP in which she quotes unpublished material of Thomas Berry's: Encountering Mystery in the Wilderness, One Woman's Vision Quest, (This book is on the left in the attached photo) and Where the Pure Water Flows: The New Story of the Universe and Christian Faith. .) Both are available from Sor Juana Press in San Antonio, Texas as well as "Homecoming Inc." in Amityville, New York. You could email Margaret at mgalop@aol.com and order either directly from her as I have done with her first book. Elaine The outstanding conversation on the Eucharist was such that for me ( and I am sure others) it was a true Eucharistic event. The Holy Spirit was present. This was palpable. And so I am most thankful. Tony We concluded our telegathering by setting the next date for December 6, 2008 @ 2:30 p.m. General Info Mon, 01 Dec 2008 06:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=F3805D40-FFCA-0324-07316650D462D42B http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=399EDB9C-FFCA-0324-07A33842A9D97034 The Community of John XXIII gathered for a Conference call on Sunday October 5th, 2008 in the Presence of: Linda Pinto, our Moderator Mary and Dick Scaine, or Facilitators, joining us were: Fred and Terry Quinn, Theresa Padovano, John Warner and George Le Blanc. We also welcomed a new member Vicki Di Benedetto into our midst. We missed the presence of Bob Charpentier, Elaine and Francis McGillicuddy and Allen Moore. We continued our ongoing conversation. Linda Pinto lead us in the following prayer: Canticle of Creation In the beginning, my God, You alone existed: eternally one yet pregnant in the fullness of unity. Full to overflowing, You, Giver of All Life, exploded outward in a billion bits and pieces. Your Words became flesh, whirling in shining starts, shimmering suns and in genesis glimmering galaxies. You, my God, spoke, and Your words became flesh: in sun and moon, earth and seas, mountains and gentle hills, rolling rivers and silent streams. You, my God, spoke, and Your Words became flesh: in sun and moon, earth and seas, mountains and gentle hills, rolling rivers and silent streams. You, my God spoke, and Your Words became flesh: in winged birds, in deer and elephant, in grazing cow, racing horse and fish of the deep. Your Words, so unique and so varied, filled the earth also with rabbit, squirrel and ant. And all Your Words were beautiful, and all were good. From each of these holy Words arose a prayer of praise and adoration to You, their Creator and wondrous womb. “Praise You,” rang out the redwood, “Blessed be You,” chimed in the cedar, “Holy are You,” prayed the prairie grasses. From all four corners of this earth, rose up a chorus of perpetual adoration. O Sacred Spirit, O Divine Breath of Life, unseal my ears that they may ever listen to Your continuous canticle of creation; open my heart and my whole self, to sing in harmony with all its many voices. Teach me to commune with Your first Word made flesh, Your Creation, that I may be able to unravel the wondrous words of Your second Word made flesh, Jesus, through whom, and in whom, I may see myself as another Word of Yours made flesh, to your glory and honor. Mary and Dick Scaine had emailed the following six areas offered for consideration in our subsequent conference calls: Our focus was on: #3. Prayer: What do we do when we pray? Do we address or express God? Do we change God? Here are all of them for your consideration: A new paradigm (lens, outlook, worldview) is demanded when the old paradigm can longer handle the questions posed in a new situation. The New Cosmology suggests that we let go of old perceptions from our childhood religious training. What perceptions of previous (earlier) training are we not only willing to admit as childish but willing to leave behind? Here are six areas offered for consideration in our subsequent conference calls: 1. Personal spirituality: Is it individual and private, or communitarian and cooperative; aimed toward building merit for heaven or challenging injustices on earth? 2. View of God: Up there (judgmental, overseer, interventionist, elsewhere, remote) or an all-embracing active, evolutional life-force? 3. Prayer: What do we do when we pray? Do we address or express God? Do we change God? 4. Holy Communion: What do we receive when we “go to Communion”? Do we “receive God” in the way of a personal Savior or is it a “yes” to co-creative participation in the Spirit of “new possibilities” in the here and now? 5. Jesus: Is he my personal Savior through whom I am saved in the Fall/Redemption model or is he the invitation to abundant life and a new consciousness as in the evolutional model. 6. Heaven: Do we primarily think of the Kingdom of heaven as “up or out there” (afterlife) or primarily as a Kingdom of peace and justice in the here and now? Richard & Mary Scaine 9/8/08 We had the following responses: From Fred and Terry As George said---where we are in life may determine how we pray. Prayer has many dimensions, perhaps dependent on what has immediately happened in our lives, or part of remembrances. Theresa said for her prayer involved listening---any way it comes to her. We both also liked the definition as active thought. We'd like to end with a section in a recent "Mirabile Dictu" which seems to summarize our thoughts, remaining open to the wisdom of the spirit.------- LISTEN My heart is open to the wisdom of Spirit. When something in life shows up as a dilemma, I first seek an answer in prayer. The answer to what I am to do may come immediately. Or it may come at a time and in a manner that I least expect. My prayer time prepares me to listen and learn--however, the answer may come. I listen with my heart--remaining open to unlimited possibilities. I may then receive spiritual insight by hearing what friends and family have to say. Or someone may ask for advice from me, and I will have the chance to be of help to them. By my very act of listening, I am providing this person an opportunity to sort through questions and discover the answer. My heart is open to the wisdom of Spirit. As I listen with my heart, I am blessed and I bless others. Hello, Mary and Dick, What a rich discussion on prayer yesterday. Some ideas that resonate with me are the connection with Divine Energy and also with the pulsing of the Universe. The conversation also heightened my sense of interconnectedness. Blessings and prayers, Barbara Dear Mary, Thank you for calling me prior to the community call. It bespeaks your thoughtful, caring self! Thoughts on the call: So many kinds of prayer, so many possibilities to move ourselves and others in harmony with the flow of the Divine Source. I liked John's attaching the names of loved ones to his breathing and connecting with the Pulsating Universe. I loved Mary's creative response to the silent period and the energy she felt. Seems like we do change God, maybe not always as the direct result of a petition, but surely as we are all God Expressing and Evolving. I am grateful for all the earnest thoughts shared today, especially the inclusive character of the community, and I hope to remember you in prayer, at 2PM CST, by rescheduling my senior moments. And the prayer of St. Michael: Lord Michael, Lord Michael, I call unto thee, Wield thy sword of blue flame and now cut me free. Blaze, God power, protection, now into my world Thy Banner of Faith, above me unfurled Transcendent blue lightning, now flash through my soul I AM by God's mercy made radiant and whole. Vicki Di Benedetto Hi, Mary and Dick Just a quick note on the call today. I said that I try to put myself in a posture of listening to God. I don't try to change God, but perhaps have God change me. "Be still and know that I am God." very often is something I use to focus by heart. Thanks for all you do to keep us all in touch. Peace, Theresa Padovano We completed the conference call and scheduled the next one for the 2nd Sunday in November due to the Call to Action Conference. We will continue our discussion on November 9th at 2:30 p.m.        General Info Sun, 26 Oct 2008 05:00:00 GMT http://www.communityofjohnxxiii.org/blog/display_blog.cfm?bid=399EDB9C-FFCA-0324-07A33842A9D97034