Well, everyone, today we wrapped up the CCM young adults’ retreat here at the Orquestra do Silêncio. It was a very profound experience. We explored the themes of authenticity and vulnerability, so we drew on the wisdom of the contemplatives on how to deal with this peace. This question of the duality between what I show to the world and how I see myself
How do I look within? How do I respond? Who am I?
So we had moments of meditation, of sharing in a group, moments in nature, moments of painting and dancing, and it’s beautiful to see how each member is touched by a different practice, but ultimately, we leave here with the realisation that God asks us to be whole, not perfect.
So, recognising our vulnerability means having the courage to show who we really are.
And even more so within a practice and a community where you feel a sense of belonging. We don’t need to fit into something within spirituality; we have to belong. So, we look within, to know who we are. And on that basis, we are part of a group where we feel safe to talk about our vulnerabilities and where we feel safe to be who we really are, free from masks, from desire, from putting on a show.
And Christian meditation is an essential practice in this process, because we turn inwards to our centre and connect with what is deepest within us, what is most essential. We move beyond superficiality, beyond the level of distractions, beyond the ‘monkey mind’; we move past psychological distractions and arrive at that centre where we feel a perfect union with God. So, we are not judged for anything; we simply feel love and recognise ourselves as children of God, as creatures, and we feel this love that we receive; and based on this love, we also expand our relationships.
So, these have been some truly beautiful days here, filled with sharing, exchange and learning. And we now continue our journey in our daily lives.
Over five days in the heart of the French countryside, a small community of young adults will gather at Bonnevaux — a place of rare beauty and deep peace — to explore what it means to live from the inside out. Through Christian meditation, shared silence, embodied movement, and honest conversation, we will journey together into the inner life.
Join us at our next Meditation Retreat for Young Adults this summer 28 July – 2 August, at Bonnevaux, France.
