Life happens.
I've just spent the better part of this week in Chicago at the gathering of The Chicago Consultation, where we were preparing ourselves for General Convention in Anaheim this July.
I arrived home early this evening and plunged myself right into the role of one of three Spiritual Directors for the 18 High School kids from around the diocese who are "Happening" this weekend at St. Paul's.
It's quite a culture shock.
Don't know about "Happening"? Happening is a Christian experience presented by teenagers for teenagers with the help of clergy and lay adult leadership.
It's a Cursillo type of retreat for kids. There's "Christophany" for Jr. High Kids, "Happening" for High School kids, "Vocare" for young adults and "Cursillo" for adults.
When you add all the volunteers who are making "Happening" happen, there are 48 people on the "Happening" Team. This includes a "Rector" and a "Vicar", a "Music Man," a "Mom" and "Dad," a whole hosts of "Angels," an "Iron Chef" in the kitchen, and 5 High School Seniors who are giving "The Talks".
The Talks are one of the most amazing parts for me. The way these kids are able to talk about their journey, their "faith walk with God" and make sense of their lives in terms of Jesus and the power of the Spirit just takes your breath away.
It is a privilege to help them prepare for these Talks and then to watch them inspire others with their faith.
Life happens. And, so does deep spirituality - when you put your life in God's hands and share your faith with others.
"Happening" officially ends with Eucharist at 2:15 on Sunday, but with God's help, the spiritual lives of 18 high school kids will just begin to happen in deeper and more meaningful ways.
I won't be too near a computer most of this weekend.
Keep us in your prayers.
"I won't be near a computer this weekend, so pray!" - EK
ReplyDeletedone, with thanks
May it all go well. The Spirit be with you!
ReplyDeletePrayers and blessings!
Happening changed my life.
ReplyDeleteI happened at the Cathedral in Trenton with about 40 other teens.
We had music "chicks" (both straight teenage guys), but other than that, pretty much the same.
I strongly believe most diocese should do it.
Prayers for the "Happening". They've changed many lives.
ReplyDeleteABSOLUTELY ... Amen, Amen, Amen!
ReplyDeleteThat sounds great! Hope it went beautifully, I'm sure that it did.
ReplyDeleteMy young one made her First Eucharist this weekend, that was a happening in our family and our church.
This is coming during the Eucharist, but you have my prayers for the Happeners in their lives.
ReplyDeleteI would ask the prayers of you and those who read your blog for the next Happening in West Missouri. It will be held from March 6-8 at St. Phillip's in Joplin.
God bless.