We All Need A Sanctuary Night

There's an old Ignatian practice of engaging religious text with your senses. It's more like stepping into and walking around in it, noticing what one sees, hears, smells, feels, and tastes.

I was recently up in Winnipeg, Manitoba and I was walking around in this invitation to let go:

"Are you tired? Worn out? Burned out on religion? Come to me. Get away with me and you'll recover your life. I'll show you how to take a real rest. Walk with me and work with me - watch how I do it. Learn the unforced rhythms of grace. I won't lay anything heavy or ill-fitting on you. Keep company with me and you'll learn to live freely and lightly." (Matt. 11:28-30, MSG)

My imagination took me to Sanctuary Night, and I think it's because our invitation there is similar - to come and rest. I was imagining being one of the women who stumbles into our space on a Monday night, and I noticed a few things: I saw familiar faces, thrilled to see me. I heard an upbeat playlist and joy in your voices. I smelled coffee and a homemade meal. I felt an all-encompassing hug, you not afraid of what I smell like. I tasted extravagance.

We want Sanctuary Night to be an invitation to join, to stay, to rest. Welcome to the party.

Friends, I hope you have found a Sanctuary Night for your soul.

Because the women walking on Sullivant Ave. aren't the only ones in desperate need for rest.

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I'm pretty sure the highlight for May was the memorial for a woman who spent many many years on the street and died in April. Many of our friends knew her, and it was right and good for us to honor their (and our) grief. See photos attached for a small sense of what that looked like. I am incredibly thankful for the volunteers who planned and participated in this beautiful ceremony. Thank you!

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There is a lot going on in June, my friends!

And stay tuned for lots of new things coming! Expansion of services! And MOOOOOOORE parties!!

Bless you all,
H