PERHAPS the gentler pace of summer will allow for time out at Glenstal Abbey where a day of exploration, prayer, the Eucharist and reflection on spiritual text with Nóirín ní Riain may open the heart and sooth soul.
On August 15 she leads under the theme, ‘Poetics of Death’ when “we will reflect on our own perspective on life and death in the light of Mary’s powerful example”.
This invitation coincides with the feast of the Assumption of Mary into Heaven and so the Celtic tradition of the hospitality to death is influence. Eastern Orthodox celebrates the Dormition (falling asleep) of Mary.
On September 15, Glenstal gathers under ‘the Holy Name of Mary’: “Through story, song and prayer, we will be fully present to ourselves, each other and the Divine through the grace of names and naming”.
Cue, perhaps, to be mindful of St Irenaeus’ words, “The glory of God is every person fully alive.”
Enquiries to Ní Riain, who holds a doctorate in Theology, at Murroe on 061-621079.
