"And now its winter, winter in America." These words by poet and musician Gil Scott Heron describe many people's experiences in our current social landscape and as we approach Advent 2024.  The season of winter can be cold, dark, and feel isolating and paralyzing.  But it is also a time when seeds of life are lying dormant to sprout when the time is right.  Our gathering will explore how John of the Cross's teaching on the Dark Night can help to trust and to cooperate with God during these disorienting days.  Our time together will involve sharing, silent prayer, and presentation.

About our Retreat Leaders:

Laurie Cassidy, Ph.D. is a theologian and anti-racist activist and currently teaches in the Christian Spirituality Program at Creighton University.  Cassidy was associate professor in religious studies department at Marywood University in Scranton. Her books include, Desire Darkness and Hope: Theology in a Time of Impasse (2022) edited with M. Shawn Copeland and most recently Praying for Freedom: Racism and Ignatian Spirituality in America (2024). Her activism is rooted in contemplative practice and for almost forty years she has engaged this connection through spiritual direction, retreats, and workshops across the United States.  Cassidy also studied at the Mindful Awareness Research Center at UCLA and is a trained mindfulness facilitator. Her research, teaching and writing explore the political and cultural impact of Christian mysticism in personal and social transformation.

Elise Gower (she/her) is personally and professionally committed to cultivating intentional community around the tradition and values of Ignatian spirituality. Her career has been focused in ministry, community engagement, and leadership development. She has extensive experience working in Jesuit higher education and the USA East Jesuit Province. Elise is drawn to the art of sacred storytelling and its value in collective antiracism work and LGBTQ+ advocacy.  Elise centers queer inclusion in faith spaces. She is currently pursuing a master’s in clinical social work to explore the interconnectedness of mental health and spirituality.