Pause and Practice: Sacred Circle Reflection
A Reflection by Christine Jurisich
A Time to Reflect
Too often in life, we run from one event to the next or from one crisis to the next without taking the time to reflect on what happened and how we are changing and growing as a result. Here at Retreat, Reflect, Renew, our retreat season is like a school year, running from September through June. My intention with these reflections is to create a journey for you throughout the season. As we near the end of this one, I invite you to reflect on your own growth and find something within it to celebrate.
If you are new to the ministry, I invite you to reflect on what brought you here. For what do you yearn? More hope? Peace? Connection? A stronger relationship with God? How might that be a clue as to how you want to grow with Retreat, Reflect, Renew in this new season?
If you have been with the ministry for a while, what is one discovery or grace-filled moment from this past season's growth journey for which you are grateful? How might that be a clue as to how you want to grow in this new retreat season?
The 2025/2026 Themes
Whether you are new to the ministry or have been around for a while, I invite you to take a look at some of our past reflections and notice what is stirring in you. Notice your yearnings and desires.
Together, through Sacred Circle and our Sunday email reflections, we explored a number of sacred conversations.
Growth requires intentionality and commitment. It also requires making choices and setting boundaries with yourself and others. Perhaps you started saying no to TV at night to say yes to reading and journaling. Maybe you are beginning to say no to certain commitments to spend more quiet time with yourself and God. You may have made a difficult decision related to a relationship or spoken up for yourself for the first time. Some of you may have decided, for the first time, to try a retreat or join a Sacred Circle.
All of these choices require thought, intentionality, discipline, or courage. It is important to recognize and honor that.
Ask Yourself and Journal
How do the themes above resonate with you?
In what ways did you grow through them?
After reflecting on them, in what ways would you like to continue growing?
Did you share these themes in one of our Sacred Circles? If so, how did sharing and being in the presence of a supportive community guide your growth?
Making an Intention
I am excited to introduce you to our new offerings and invite you to a new season of growth next month. In the meantime, take intentional time to reflect on how you want to grow. Each Sunday throughout this month we will offer a practice you can use to help you unearth the still voice of God calling you to a deeper wholeness.
Did this reflection resonate with you?
Share your thoughts in a Sacred Circle. New people always welcome.