To fall in love with God is the greatest of all romances; to seek Him, the greatest adventure; to find Him, the greatest achievement.
I came across this quote a few months ago, on the vocations display of some sisters whose congregation follows the Rule of St Augustine, today's saint. I have no idea when or to whom Augustine wrote this, but it's certainly wonderfully stirring stuff! But I wonder, though, whether - or to what extent - we can truly, completely find God this side of heaven... and whether it isn't the seeking and the adventure that keeps us going...
I've just come back from a gathering of just over 75 RSCJ from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, all reflecting, praying and relaxing together, with our spirituality of the Heart as the theme and focus. The countries are organised into two congregational provinces, so, although some of us have visited and met each other, maybe even spent time in the other province, this was the first such gathering for all of us. There were several I met for the first time, or had last met ten or more years ago.
To a certain extent we should have been strangers, and we certainly come from different mentalities and experiences - but we soon discovered how strongly united we are in our common call, and in the Heart of Jesus. We were not strangers, but fellow-travellers, fellow-adventurers in the greatest of all quests. A sizeable number began that quest before I was even born; others are just setting out, but all of us are filled with that graced longing, which keeps us going even when the search can seem futile and the tracks invisible.
So I saw him and sought him; and I had him and wanted him. And it seems to me that this is how it is and how it should be in this life. (Julian of Norwich)
Happy feast! - especially to all my friends who follow Augustine's Rule and spirit
I've just come back from a gathering of just over 75 RSCJ from England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales, all reflecting, praying and relaxing together, with our spirituality of the Heart as the theme and focus. The countries are organised into two congregational provinces, so, although some of us have visited and met each other, maybe even spent time in the other province, this was the first such gathering for all of us. There were several I met for the first time, or had last met ten or more years ago.
To a certain extent we should have been strangers, and we certainly come from different mentalities and experiences - but we soon discovered how strongly united we are in our common call, and in the Heart of Jesus. We were not strangers, but fellow-travellers, fellow-adventurers in the greatest of all quests. A sizeable number began that quest before I was even born; others are just setting out, but all of us are filled with that graced longing, which keeps us going even when the search can seem futile and the tracks invisible.
So I saw him and sought him; and I had him and wanted him. And it seems to me that this is how it is and how it should be in this life. (Julian of Norwich)
Happy feast! - especially to all my friends who follow Augustine's Rule and spirit
I like the Julian of No which quote, perfect with St. Augustine's. What an adventure indeed!
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