Advent is just around the corner.  If you haven’t already gathered your adult formation committee to solidify your plans for the season, this is a good time to call a meeting.  Remember, people have to see things ten times before it registers with them.  You will want to start promoting your Advent programs very soon.

Advent is a time for introspection; a good opportunity, as we begin the new church year, to reflect on our life of faith.   It is a perfect time to make a retreat - but it is also a busy time for many people.  Give them the opportunity for some quiet time that fits their holiday schedule, by offering a Morning (or evening) of Reflection.

An excellent resource is Jane Ayer’s Guided Meditations for Advent and Christmas, the CD and paperback of which can be purchased on Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/tg/detail/-/088489519X/ref=ord_cart_shr?%5Fencoding=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&v=glance ) or from your local bookseller.   Begin with prayer, invite each person to introduce themselves, then play the guided meditation in which Mary visits your home. The meditation on the CD is very moving, with a lovely musical accompaniment, but the script is provided in the book as well if you would like to create your own presentation.  Following the meditation, in silence, give each participant a sheet of reflection questions and provide areas to which they can go to reflect on the meditation.  You might want to provide soft music in these areas.  After 30 minutes, call them back to the larger group and allow them to share their comments.  In my experience, this is always a very rich time of sharing. Close with a blessing ritual.  

With very little effort, in just two hours, you can provide a meaningful experience of reflection and faith sharing to enrich the Advent season for all participants. 

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