skylight festival: spiritual practices

The 2015 Skylight Festival, the first ever national festival of faith, justice and art, was held in July 2015, in Paris, Ontario. I had the great fortune of time and energy to attend the three-day event. Camping on the grounds, I was able to participate and attend many of the engaging workshops and presentations. Read on to learn more about my experiences:

On the table:

A variety of crosses, of various materials, shapes and sizes.

Instructions from the Organizer*:

“The cross is an important symbol of the Christian faith. Spend some time looking at the crosses around you. Choose the one you are most drawn to and hold it in your hand. Reflect on: what message does this symbol bring to your life? to the world? What are ways you can remember the cross in your own life?”

From the table in front of me, I chose a small wooden cross. It fit in the palm of my hand. I was drawn to this cross because of the rings of the tree ~the growth rings~ that were visible in the wood. They curved in parallel arches across the flat surface of the cross. This reminds me of the beauty in signs of growth and maturity in myself and my community. The rings represent wisdom and signs of successful living. I enjoyed the smooth natural feel fo the unfinished wood, knowing that the corners would soften with age and touch. In this sense it appeals to me to know that this symbol is transforming and is adjusting and altering ~maleable~ to those who come to live with it.

Is that not how God touches us? Gently smoothing our hard edges, molding us and transforming us. We are the soft wood of the cross, ever-changing, showing signs of softening and wisdom under the gentle touch of God.

I truly appreciated the "Spiritual Practices" booth presented at the Skylight Festival. I learned new techniques for connecting inward. I look forward to sharing more of my experiences at the festival in coming blog posts...

xo

*my apologies to the organizer. I searched the Skylight Festival, and could not find reference to your name and contact info.