Good News of Great Joy: An Advent Mini-Retreat with Joe Barry
December 2 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm CST
$50.00
“Advent is a season for remembering that the joy that makes its way toward us does not depend on mere happiness. Joy is made of stronger stuff than this. Joy is what comes when, in days that tempt us toward despair, we choose to celebrate—not in denial of the causes of despair, but in defiance. In hope. In delight. In gladness for the One who comes to sing for us and with us, ever renewing us in his love.” –Jan Richardson
The lure of the to-do list is especially strong during the holidays, causing us to lose sight of the blessings of the season. Or conversely, the lack of things to do or people to see at this time of year can pull us into depression or despair.
Wherever you are on this continuum, we invite you to a quiet, reflective morning to contemplate and rest in the gift of joy and other treasures the Advent season can bring us, if only we take time to ponder them.
Using poetry, reflection, and conversation, Joe will invite you to gaze inward to discern the joy that’s making its way to you, and what Advent 2023 is calling you to contemplate, prepare for, and birth in the coming weeks.
DATE:
Saturday, December 2nd
TIME:
9:30 am to Noon
LOCATION:
St. Matthew’s Episcopal Church
FACILITATOR:
Joe Barry, MA
FEE:
ABOUT OUR FACILITATOR
Joe Barry, MA
Joe Barry, MA is a facilitator, spiritual director, and educator with experience in health care, higher education and faith-based sectors. He currently serves in Ministry Formation at Ascension Texas and is a cohort facilitator for the Ascension Foundations of Ministry Leadership Program. Joe holds an MA in Applied Behavioral Sciences from City University of Seattle, Washington, and BA in Theology from the University of Notre Dame. He is a certified Master Practitioner for the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) and holds a Certificate in the Foundations of NeuroLeadership from the NeuroLeadership Institute.
