by Father Ron Geilen
IN THE hustle and bustle of modern life, amidst the cacophony of deadlines, responsibilities, and distractions, there exists a silent and deeper longing within each of us. It is a yearning for something deeper, something beyond the things of this world. This longing often leads us to ask questions and walk the path of spiritual renewal.
When we are talking about spiritual renewal we are not talking about religious doctrines, following rituals, and not even about things that some would call wishy-washy spirituality practices. It transcends the boundaries of any of that. It transcends any particular faith or belief system. Instead, it is a personal journey of self-discovery, a quest to reconnect with our inner selves and the greater universe.
AT ITS core, spiritual renewal involves a process of introspection and reflection. It requires us to pause, step back from the pace of life, and delve into the depths of our being. We can use practices such as meditation, prayer, or simply quiet contemplation to do that among other methods. We can begin to unravel the layers to maybe discover our true essence. Especially the silence can bring us closer to ourselves and the divine. It is as Deepak Chopra wrote, “in the silence we can hear the whispers of our soul”.
Nature often serves as a powerful catalyst for spiritual renewal. The embrace of all that creation has to offer can bring us into a deeper connection with something greater than ourselves. The beauty and majesty of the natural world awakens in us a sense of awe and reverence which reminds us of the connection between all life on this earth.
IS SPIRITUAL renewal a totally solitary endeavor? No, not at all! It can also be found in the bonds of community and in shared rituals and celebrations that bond us together on a deeper level. It can be reached through singing, dancing, or engaging in acts of service. In these ways, we can make connections that nourish the soul and uplift the spirit.
Spiritual renewal does not take place overnight. It is a dynamic process that unfolds over time and evolves with our experiences. It is a continuous journey of growth and transformation. As we cultivate mindfulness and presence in each moment, we open ourselves to the endless possibilities for renewal and awakening. In a world often characterized by division and disharmony, spiritual refreshment can offer a beacon of hope. It is an ongoing reminder that beneath the surface, we are all interconnected. In the end, we are all a part of the same cosmic tapestry. It invites us to transcend the limitations of our egos and embrace the inherent unity of all existence.
SO, AS we navigate the complexities of life, let us not forget the importance of nurturing our spiritual well-being. No better time for spiritual rejuvenation than as we approach the Feast of Pentecost. Let us make a new start and let us reserve moments for stillness, silence, and spiritual renewal amidst the chaos in our world. Let us allow ourselves to be replenished by the boundless opportunities that spiritual renewal can bring. In the journey of spiritual renewal, we discover ourselves more deeply but also the profound interconnectedness that binds us all together.
* Ron Geilen from Geleen, the Netherlands is vicar/priest at All Saints & Sinners Anglican Mission in St. Charles, Missouri and at St. Mary & St. Ann Ministries in Fulton.
