Walking
onto the Happy Valley Campground I sensed a spirit of love and welcoming from
each of those who were called to serve us and who had been praying for us. Terry and I remarked that we felt as one with
the group from the beginning. All
nervousness about this program fell away.
I think all those who came were just hungry for connection with God from
the start.
When
the first class by Laurie Gordon ended, I felt like dancing before God! Laurie, a retired Research Biologist, Spiritual
Director and Evangelist in Community of Christ, showed us how God is always
beyond our understanding of God. I was
filled with humility and joy. Her
classes were only part of the experience of worship I was blessed to enjoy.
When
around 100 voices joined together to sing, I wondered if people were chosen
because of their ability to sing. The
worship leader was Katie Harmon-Mclaughlin, a Spiritual Formation Specialist. I came so needy and I was not let down. The Spiritual Formation Team taught us many
ways to connect with God: Holy Attention,
Lectio Divina, Centering Prayer, Contemplative Prayer, Dwelling in the Word, Prayer
of Examen and more.
We
walked among the redwoods; hiked the mountain behind us; ate delicious, nutritious
food; and visited with old and new friends.
In small covenant discipleship groups, we shared stories of our own
journeys and learned how to listen to others.
I came
to this experience feeling so flat and in need of uplift. I’m now so excited to continue on this
journey with others and with God. I
believe God has brought me to this place and I feel thankful that God has never
let me down on my journey.
