Near the beginning of the pandemic, here in Northern California, the time to plant our summer garden came in mid-April. Sheltering in place had abruptly and completely changed the place and pace of my usually “busy outside the house” life. Being forced by circumstances to slow down and stay at home has indeed been frustrating, …
At the Journey Center, I have found deep community with people who are seeking to experience the Holy and to allow the Spirit to transform their lives.
Upon reflection I can speak of an experience characterized by a slow undoing over time, an undoing of assumptions, conclusions, attitudes and beliefs established on insufficient grounds long ago and by a gentle cracking open of the heart.
It can be both exciting and overwhelming to recognize that something is stirring in you…that perhaps the Spirit is inviting you to listen more deeply for God’s invitation at this season in your life. I’m Joanna Quintrell, the Executive Director of the JCA, and I will never forget experiencing those first stirrings on my own journey!
Spiritual Direction has helped me to recognize the heart of the contemplative living within me and develop spiritual practices that have helped nurture that heart. My directors have given me the tools to view, process and navigate my journey.
