By Rev. Elizabeth Rechter, Executive Director

We live in a world that does not honor our sacredness. In fact, most of us struggle to honor it in ourselves. And we know some are bombarded by this denial more consistently and fiercely than others as they encounter racism, sexism, homophobia, ageism, ableism, to name a few. This may be why most spiritual traditions hold as sacred a version of the greatest commandment or golden rule: treat others as you would desire them to treat you. And we know that this spiritual care benefits from companionship; those who can listen with us and let emerge what most needs our care.

And we know if we ignore or dishonor the sacred in us and others, the effects reach into all of creation. This truth is embedded in the ancient Exodus story. When the pharaoh refused to release the Hebrew people from slavery, the first casualties suffered were in creation. The land and creatures were infected with plagues and disease, and the waters became contaminated as the human conflict wore on.

Sacredness is shared by all creation and when it is denied all are affected. Stillpoint’s work of forming deeply grounded spiritual directors and offering spiritual direction is, at its core, the work of honoring sacredness. Listening for the sacred in and between all things is an art. It takes skill, care, attention. As Parker Palmer writes,

“The soul is like a wild animal—tough, resilient, savvy, self-sufficient and yet exceedingly shy. If we want to see a wild animal, the last thing we should do is to go crashing through the woods, shouting for the creature to come out. But if we are willing to walk quietly into the woods and sit silently for an hour or two at the base of a tree, the creature we are waiting for may well emerge, and out of the corner of an eye we will catch a glimpse of the precious wildness we seek.” ― Parker J. Palmer, A Hidden Wholeness: The Journey Toward an Undivided Life

Stillpoint makes claim to the journey of honoring sacredness as we create spaces small and great where room is made for the Holy in each to be witnessed, supported and honored for the sake of the world. We do this in spiritual companionship relationships, including individual, group and Eco-spiritual direction; the Contemplative Living programing of The Spiritual Journey; Wisdom and Practice programs; One Day Contemplative Retreats. We are committed that all have access to these invitations by keeping our fees as low as possible, and by offering reduced or no cost opportunities for others. All deserve deep spiritual care. This year we were are able to offer $11,369 in scholarships due to the generosity of many.

I hope you will join us in this good work, either as a recipient of spiritual care in our programming, by answering your call to become a spiritual director, and if possible, through financial gifts to Stillpoint. Thank you to those who have made monthly commitments, small and large. It is exceedingly helpful and we are grateful. There are so many good works that need our prayer and financial contributions. I hope you can make Stillpoint one this year.

With great gratitude and Blessings for your Journey,

Elizabeth+