October: Dedicated to the Holy Rosary

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Carmel,

The year is flying by! October already, month of the most Holy Rosary, and not long until our Retreat.

Celebrating St Thérèse of the Child Jesus and the Holy Face and our Holy Mother, St Teresa of Jesus, highlights of this month along with the many other October feasts!

With Fr Michael-Thérèse being away for our meeting this month, I thought it would be a good opportunity for some time of Lectio Divina. This is a practice recommended by St Teresa of Jesus and I think it would also build on what Father was talking to us about last month, especially in regard to the Scriptures.

We shall use the Gospel of the day, following the 5 steps of Lectio Divina:

• Lectio (reading)

• Meditatio (reflection)

• Oratio (prayer response)

• Contemplatio (rest in God’s presence)

• Actio (something we could do in response).

This exercise can be as quiet or responsive as each one desires.

No pressure! Just a very gentle time with the Gospel and with whatever happens.

May God bless you all in every way you need and desire.