Good morning, lay apostles! Below is an article (and some photos from the event) written by an attendee of the Adult Faith Formation weekend in Virginia a few weeks ago:
We began this DFOT Adult Faith Formation weekend with each person making a sign that says: 'I am imperfect'. We got creative and had fun doing this! Making a sign we can hold was a way of every person reminding themselves, for some possibly admitting for the first time (out loud), that we are not there yet and journeying like everyone else. Making this sign predisposed us for a learning experience and for me, created a family atmosphere where people are aware but at peace with their imperfection and need for work here and there.
A beautiful moment in the first talk was when Anne described a newborn baby. Showing a picture of the newborn baby on the screen, Anne asked: “Is this a Catholic baby? Is this baby going to be in full compliance with all of the rules of the Catholic Church for his/her entire life?” This was a moment for many of us in the room because we were free to view this baby as God views all of us, with love. The love Jesus felt for Mary Magdalene. The love He felt for the woman at the well and for the good thief. Permission to love every person God has created gave me a feeling of freedom and joy.
Margaret's talk on feelings was very helpful. I will be bringing the three steps back into my life and practicing 'a new way'.
1. The first is to identify the feeling. How do I feel?
2. The second is to accept the feeling. Do not try to put it in a box of 'good' or 'bad'. Be honest with yourself, it is what it is.
3. The third step is to make a choice on how I am going to act. This is where the rubber meets the road and where the hard work in your head of 1. identifying your feeling and 2. accepting your feeling, pays off.
Lastly, a simple but impacting teaching was "Ask why?". Asking 'why?' throughout the day gives insight into wounds, behaviours due to wounds and where healing is needed. I find this so practical. I love it!
Have a blessed Monday,
Bonnie
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