At a Glance
Theme:
Life in the Spirit: Heeding the Spirit’s Prompting
Faculty Speaker:
Dr. Esther Acolatse, assistant professor of pastoral theology
Lectionary Texts:
Ezekiel 37:1-14; Psalm 104:1a, 24-35; Romans 8:14-27; Acts 2:1-14a, 22-47
Students and staff explore movement in sacred dance |
Students enact a reading of Acts 2 |
A discussion in mentor groups during morning plenary |
Reflections on the Lecture
Today Esther Acolatse, assistant professor of pastoral theology, talked with us about the theme “Life in the Spirit: Heeding the Spirit’s Prompting.” We discussed in small groups how we engage in spiritual discernment and how we know if we have discerned correctly. In lecture, we heard about what the Spirit and life in the Spirit look like in Scripture. Although we are living into our tradition's story, which offers important lessons about God's Spirit, not every situation is dealt with in Scripture – hence the importance of a living relationship with Christ through the church community.
Quotable Quotes
"Pray as if everything depended on God. Plan as if everything depended on you."
— Dr. Acolatse, quoting a helpful saying during plenary
"The litmus test for correct discernment is that the practice conveys the gospel, and the gospel means that God has come to bring us fullness of life. What brings fullness? It doesn't take away from you or someone. Always think as far ahead as your great-grandchild....what does this action produce?"
— Dr. Acolatse during plenary
"I never thought about reading as prayer which is why I wanted to try lectio divina. I'm used to just saying what's in the worship bulletin and moving on to the next hymn, so I'm excited to read Scripture in way that is more meaningful personally."
— A DYA student during prayer practices
Other Activities
Between our final Arts Village and prayer practices sessions, we had a full afternoon. In the Arts Village, students were able to select one artist whose workshop they wanted to attend again for more advanced instruction. Our day continued with our final student-led worship service structured around the work of the Holy Spirit. Two of own mentors, the Rev. Rebekah Eklund and the Rev. Errick Baldwin, preached and presided at table. We all agreed that student-led services have been a highlight of these two weeks.
What’s Ahead...
It’s hard to believe that tomorrow is our last full day together, but before we pack up our bags, we’ll welcome one last plenary speaker and enjoy one final worship service together. In the morning, Dr. J. Warren Smith, professor of church history, will speak to us on the topic of vocation. After free time this afternoon, we’ll gather for closing worship, with Assistant Director Katherine Smith preaching and Faculty Director Fred Edie presiding.
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