Last Tuesday evening, in our Poetry of the Season session, Julie Bowman introduced us to and focused on poet Rosemerry Wahtola Trommer. In [...]

The slower pace of summer is in the rearview mirror, the anticipation of the holiday season is on the horizon, and time seems to be speeding up.

Poet David Whyte began his September Zoom Series, A Deeper Form of Rest, with his famous poem The House of Belonging and then wove in [...]

Sometimes we're in a hurry and desperately need the quick convenience of self-checkout or other ways to streamline completing errands.

As I headed outside this morning for my walk, I was surprised at how dark it was. Another sign of change that I hope soon brings cooler [...]

Last week Pastor Brad Highum from Abiding Love Lutheran Church and I spoke about our upcoming event in October with Rev. Dr. Angela [...]

Blessed with a month away in July, I found Edith Wharton's invitation to "set wide the window" and drink in the day relatively easy from [...]

As we move into the heart (and often heat) of summer, Rev. Nancy McCranie offers an invitation to remember what joy is, to pause to open [...]

Sharon Dunn offers an invitation to seek joy this summer by experiencing more of what delights you. There are so many choices... Enjoy!

Rev. Doug Fritzsche writes about joy through a story of his dog, Kairo, so we decided to feature the joy found in connecting with or [...]

Locked out of our room for this past Saturday's workshop and no staff on site, Jeanne Guy (our facilitator) and I were working on plan "B" [...]

In her story about the fortune cookie wisdom shared above, Rivvy Neshama goes on to say that its wisdom proved true. What are your great [...]

Summer can bring time for leisurely walks to ponder juicy questions on your own or with others.

If a “moment of silence is the highest honor we can pay someone,” perhaps we need to honor ourselves and each other this way now, while [...]

How much larger might our world be though, if we could shift from fear to curiosity and wonder?

With graduations coming up, a quote about the importance of being yourself reminded me of the great commencement speeches given over the years.

In a recent conversation with Krista Tippett of On Being, Dr. Vivek H. Murthy, Surgeon General, spoke about the importance of connecting [...]

Those of you living in Central Texas will likely understand when I say it felt like this past Saturday's day retreatants were gifted with a [...]

This past week I've found myself holding the awareness of the world as both terrible and beautiful. It feels critical to keep strengthening [...]

While enjoying Easter brunch with a friend, we spoke about a book she was reading on being true to yourself, just as you are, and how [...]

Whatever your faith tradition or name for God, this is a powerful time to honor the sacred.

While we can't control the weather or people around us, we can seek to enhance our inner and physical senses to find the magic each day.

Come and rest awhile in the sheltering arms of Mother Earth and a circle of new friends. Leave renewed and refreshed in body, mind, and spirit.

After being welcomed by an abundance of bluebonnets lining the road into a favorite nearby resort, a dear friend and I spent this past [...]

As spring begins to arrive in fits and starts around the northern hemisphere, the greening we witness in nature has the potential to take [...]

Last week one of our committee members didn't show up for an important meeting. When she later explained how she had forgotten after an [...]

Spring is coming! At the celebration of our founder's life yesterday, we were excited to hear about the first sighting of bluebonnets in [...]

From watering a plant to your hand tenderly expressing love to a beloved animal, person, or tree, your simple gift of love just might [...]

Sometimes kindness, gentleness, and loving attentiveness are what we need after a traumatic experience. And what qualifies as traumatic to [...]

Perhaps it is the cold temperatures outside that drew me to the wisdom His Holiness the Dalai Lama shared about how being open and [...]

Scientists and theologians both point out that empty spaces aren’t empty at all. There is often palpable energy or “work” happening in [...]

Perhaps it was the turtles my friend and I enjoyed watching sunbathing recently that got me thinking about the classic Aesop fable about [...]

I laughed out loud when I saw the quote above by the early 20th-century French poet Guillaume Apollinaire. His wise words can be used for [...]

As the Winter Solstice arrives tomorrow, I am reminded of the ancient fear of the dark. No wonder the celebrations of our faith traditions [...]

Do you feel the tug of responsibility and expectation to get tasks completed before the end of the year? Or are you overwhelmed with [...]

Change suggests movement and effort to bring it about (whether we like it or not).

On this Giving Tuesday, I am reminded of how many people it takes to co-create this beloved contemplative community.

May we gather together (whether in person, virtually, or via text exchange) with those we love to honor and celebrate all we are grateful for.

In preparation for our evening with author Jan Richardson, I reviewed the pages in her book Sparrow that inspired the theme of the program: [...]

Whatever your dreams or expectations and however your neighbors have voted, may you find hope and reasons to be grateful in the results.

Love can help us offer heartfelt prayers and support for those grieving, stay hopeful when the way forward seems hopeless, and fight for change

One of my favorite books about thinking differently about leadership and success is The Art of Possibility by Benjamin Zander and Rosamund [...]

At this time of year, I adjust my schedule as much as I can to avoid walking in the dark.

Perhaps contemplating what matters is why seeing multiple quotes referencing the importance of tradition or ritual captured my attention.

I was reminded of the power of art and the creative spirit to help us process all that we’ve witnessed personally or through the TV or [...]

After a series of small and frustrating glitches to start the day, I stopped trying to push through my to-do list. I paused, rested in silence...

With 365 opportunities a year for the sun to shine on the earth, there are only two times when the northern and southern hemispheres get [...]

Time with family in Oregon last week was both a refreshing respite and a challenge.

“What is mine to do?” Here’s one answer to the perennial contemplative query: In this era of anxiety and fear about climate change, you [...]

This past Sunday afternoon I heard author Matt Kahn speak (in answer to a question from the audience) about how continuing to ask "Why?" [...]

This weekend I said "no way" out loud, then laughed at my reaction to a newsletter subject line: "Holding on to Summer".

Whether it’s a road block, an unexpected change that moves you away from a treasured goal, or a voluntary change in plans, how might you [...]

Like some in our community, you may be dealing with some serious stuff at home or are feeling overwhelmed with anxiety about the future of [...]

In his book, What The Mystics Know, Fr. Richard Rohr writes about contemplation and prayer in the chapter "Contemplation Means Practicing [...]

It wasn't that long ago we were all required to slow down whether we wanted to or not; yet, the to-do list (even if filled with fun summer [...]

While walking early this morning, I noticed some of the trees clearly suffering from the lack of water. I began wishing there was something [...]

In these troubling times when violence shows up in places we couldn’t have imagined, our thin places can help us remember our connection to [...]

I am called once again to find respite in deep breaths during sacred pauses, the beauty of the rain, and listening within for the wisdom to [...]

“Start close in, don’t take the second step or the third, start with the first thing close in, the step you don’t want to [...]

“Let us bless the humility of water, Always willing to take the shape Of whatever otherness holds it, The buoyancy of water Stronger [...]

“An awake heart is like a sky that pours light.” ― Hafiz Were you able to sooth your spirit or quiet your mind over Memorial [...]

As we celebrate the Summer Solstice today, we turn our gaze to the second half of another intense year. 

Over the past few weeks, I've heard about many travel plans, as many are venturing out to experience travel rescheduled from the past two [...]

Each of us must follow our own inner guidance or call from the Holy One regarding what is ours to do. And perhaps the first step is to feel [...]

While preparing for facilitating a book group next month of John Philip Newell's Sacred Earth, Sacred Soul, I was captivated by the wisdom [...]

When I look at what's going on in the world right now, I take comfort in the wise (but not easy to experience) phrase "two steps forward [...]

Like ducklings getting ready to enter the water, some of us are cautiously re-entering the world. Eremos hosted our first in-person [...]

Have you ever noticed how the right question can open doors, unlock possibilities, and bring peace when you’ve been stuck?

What if spending some time in silent contemplation led you to the "deep and holy place within" that Sue Monk Kidd describes...

April 2022 brings sacred traditions of Muslims, Jews, and Christians "together." From the 30 days of Ramadan to the 7 days of Passover and [...]

Sometimes the way to hope, peace, and possibilities can be found in beholding and blessing the ordinary.

"The world is holy" Terry Tempest Williams reminds us. This is the epiphany astronaut Edgar Mitchell experienced on his return to Earth [...]

I want to soak up as much of vibrant energy and beauty as possible to revive my spirit after an intense winter.

At this painful time in the world, I find myself needing to remember a tender heart that cries at the suffering is a strong, powerful heart [...]

On 2-22-2022, it feels important to honor the power of "2" in our lives! Whether or not we're in a romantic relationship, there are many [...]

“What if we could recognize our faults and look to see what is beyond them? What if we could see, with great tenderness, the painful unmet [...]

In this month of love many feel compelled to either make a grand gesture to express the love they feel for another or to ignore the entire [...]

The bright moments of delight, like our time with Mary Earle last Thursday, helped me get through, but I must admit I feel more joy than [...]

Through his teachings, books, and presence, Vietnamese Buddhist Monk Thich Nhat Hanh encouraged people from all walks of life to walk in [...]

There is so much coming at us right now. Spiritual leaders have pointed to the awareness that the mind can’t always handle rapid change and [...]

When I saw this image of a sunset in Big Bend National Park in Texas, I felt my whole body relax and my breathing slow. It felt just right [...]

I was saddened to hear of Archbishop Desmond Tutu's passing on December 26th. He did more than a little bit of good for so many.

What are you hoping for in 2022? How can you prepare yourself to be more open to receive the blessings you hope for and more resilient in [...]

With the arrival of the winter solstice today, winter is officially here and the light begins to grow once again.

What defines a good life? I imagine each of us would come up with a unique definition, while including some common themes. Love, laughter, [...]

There is a softness to the light that shines for fewer hours at this time of year that invites this inward gaze. And this opportunity to [...]

“The places and people that make our world are [ever] changing; the present slips from us with growing rapidity, but the birds are [...]

“Reverence each hour as a small stepping stone on your pilgrimage through the day. Receive the gift of seven sacred pauses. Practice [...]

Are you carrying any burdens like worrying about the future of the planet or the health of a loved one? Why not let the stones around you, [...]

As we approach the silly and scary fun that Halloween can bring, we also come to the time of traditions like Día de los Muertos (Day of the [...]

“Uncrowd my heart, O God, until silence speaks in your still, small voice. Turn me from the hearing of words, and the making of [...]

With the divisiveness in our country, I was struck by Steven Charleston's statement about the power of celebrating what we hope for [...]

"Remember, all is well," I kept telling myself this morning, as another part of my move over this past week did not go as planned. [...]

“Our goal should be to live life in radical amazement. …get up in the morning and look at the world in a way that takes nothing [...]

“We need to stop. Just stop. Stop for a moment. Before anybody Says or does anything That may hurt anyone else.” –Mattie [...]

“Many times today I will cross over a threshold. I hope I will catch a few of those times. I need to remember that my life is, in [...]

We may not be able to stop the suffering unfolding in our world, but we can expand our ability to offer compassion, kindness, and support [...]

“Climate change portends a revolution in the relationship between nature and civilization, but this is not a revolution in the more [...]

A few years ago we invited the Eremos community to pause at Noon to pray or sing May We Dwell in the Heart for a week. I remember feeling [...]

In his wisdom, Bill Withers shared one of the toughest challenges to receiving the support we need: "for no one can fill those of your [...]

When we excitedly planned Returning to the World with Paula D'Arcy next week and the Behold and See workshop with Elizabeth Ann Gates later [...]

When I lived in Seattle, my backyard ended with a hedge of blackberry bushes. I didn't think much about it until my sister and her family [...]

As the end of July approaches and the summer heat slows us down, this might be the perfect time to "take stock" of where you are in life.

While out walking early Sunday morning, I felt sadness about Austin moving back to a Stage 3 level of risk because of a rise in COVID-19 [...]

Take a deep breath, focus on your beautiful, beating heart, and return to center. Some variation of this statement is often used by [...]

The summer feels like a good time to experience the simple pleasures that bring smiles and laughter. I'm pretty good about remembering to [...]

“Above all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay. We should [...]

What do you miss when you tell yourself you don't have time for something or you're so distracted you forget to pay attention to the moment?

Last Saturday morning I had just finished reading about a flight being diverted because of an altercation that broke out on the plane, when [...]

By now many of you will have heard the story of Confections Bakery in a small East Texas town. An innocent post to social media of their [...]

Keep Austin Weird became a slogan and rallying cry in 2000 for all that made Austin unique. As the city population continues to rapidly [...]

Help shine the light of Eremos by exploring these 25 Acts of Contemplation over the next year. Invite family and friends to join you.

This time of reemergence in the world turns out to be more unsettling than most of us could have imagined. Everyone has different experts [...]

"Great ideas, it has been said, come into the world as gently as doves. Perhaps then, if we listen attentively, we shall hear, amid the [...]

There is something about the sound of a bell that stops us — if only for a moment — to redirect our thoughts and sometimes actions.

I find my nine years in this community strengthening my ability to sit in silence without looking at my phone, picking up a book, or [...]

So many are feeling the tension rising over when and how to safely emerge from the pandemic, and despairing over the news about another [...]

What gifts from the struggles of the past year are you bringing with you as you plan for and embark upon new adventures this spring and summer?

I’ve been privileged by being invited to offer quarterly poetry offerings through Eremos this year. Our theme, Poetry of the Present [...]

Like children experiencing with wonder what's before them, we too can move through these spring days allowing and delighting in the "new" [...]

As many of us both turn our gaze inward and look to celebrate safely with loved ones during Holy Week in the Christian tradition and [...]

Like savoring a delicious meal, I find myself enjoying the gift of this spring in ways I never have before.

Maybe it's time to hit the pause button on our concerns and wonder. Just wonder about what, when, and how the vaccine, the pandemic, and [...]

After such a stressful week for so many Texans and others impacted by severe weather, it can be tempting to strive to make up for lost time [...]

As Austin, the state of Texas, and much of the country deal with unprecedented winter weather, the quote above gives me comfort.

A dear friend recently sent me a poem by Mark Nepo, After Mira, about his thoughts on love a year after the loss of their beloved [...]

The tension and divisiveness in our country hit us like a tsunami after the attack on the capitol. Even with the inauguration of [...]

"A deeply distressing or disturbing experience." By that definition of trauma (Dictionary.com), we can assume all of us have experienced [...]

I received the most delightful surprise for Christmas: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy. Disguised as a [...]

I've come to love this time between Christmas and the arrival of New Year's Day. It invites sacred pauses to reflect on the year and to [...]

Together, may our wishes for peace, love, joy, a safe and secure home, vibrant good health, prosperity, work that nourishes the soul, and a [...]

And so we have come to the end of the year of the pandemic.  This is a dark time of year, as we approach the Winter Solstice.  Even as the [...]

Missing community, we gathered through Zoom and waved to neighbors. Missing intimate connections, we luxuriated in long phone calls with [...]

My mother, who became a staunch Pentecostal in the last half of her life, was always known to comment on disturbing world events by saying [...]

Guest blog post by Rev. Doug Fritzsche Been a tough year for optimists, no doubt about that. Yet the calendar brings us once again to the [...]

Whatever your faith tradition, navigating this holiday season might feel like moving through an obstacle course.  Opportunities for [...]

“What we are bound to is love: the love that gives rise to our grief but finally goes deeper than it, the love that undergirds and [...]

Peace be with you on this election day and in the days to come, as we seek common ground to begin healing as a nation no matter the results [...]

I woke up this morning with trees on my mind, wondering about the language of trees. A dear friend had shared a writing prompt that [...]

What if what is real is beyond what our physical senses can experience? What if there are possibilities and potentials for a joyful future [...]

Eremos began 2020 with the theme: Interspirituality and Compassion for Self, Others, and Earth and Mark Nepo's words "Shared roots live [...]

Your light in this world matters. Every prayer offered, vision held for a better world, and kindness extended to another makes a difference.

“Until one is committed, there is hesitancy, the chance to draw back…always ineffectiveness.” – W. H. Murray Have you [...]

Sometimes we miss the arrival of the Autumnal Equinox in Central Texas because it often still feels and looks like summer. As if she knew [...]

There are some days when I speak with no one. Days when I feel clouded, as if essential connections in my brain are withering. Sometimes I [...]

There is something different about the movement in 2020 to address the systemic racial injustice in our country. You can feel the focus, [...]

John O'Donohue reminds me that this beautiful place of healing stillness can be found within the heart simply by placing our attention [...]

An excerpt from Rich Lewis’ new book, Sitting with God: A Journey to Your True Self Through Centering Prayer I cannot imagine a better [...]

” Every time you love just a little Take one step closer, solving a riddle It echoes all over the world. Every time you opt in to [...]

"To awaken is not about staying in the same place and seeing, from there, new vistas. Nor is it about having enlightened insights or [...]

Why not enter into these days wondering how it will turn out? Who knows? In our state of wonder, we just might find gifts we never could [...]

“So when hurt or afraid or confused, when feeling urgent to find your place on this Earth, hard as it is, wait…and things as you fear [...]

In his program this past Sunday, Rabbi Rami Shapiro invited us into the practice of Passage Meditation. He shared that memorizing sacred [...]

How do we get through the relentless challenges of COVID-19 and the ugliness the chaos of this time is revealing in our world? 

"Did you always maintain hope?" This question posed in the quote above struck me as a powerful call in these chaotic days.  I find hope is [...]

Carrying the Divine in our hearts ― and pausing often to remember that we do so ― seems to be the only way to walk through these days with [...]

What uncertainty we find ourselves living through. It is tempting to turn off the radio and TV, stop reading the newspaper or news feed and [...]

Last week a family member shared some upsetting news, and I just lost it. I couldn’t be “strong” or “hold it together.” So, I did what I do [...]

Toilet paper, Tiger King and Time Itself: I’d call it the triumph of the trivial. What I’d look back on – assuming I’d look back on – all [...]

Often the word “virtual” is contrasted with the idea of “in person.” A lot of virtual activity is taking place these days with the social [...]

During this time of “sheltering in place” amidst the spread of Covid-19 I have been reminded of a phrase from St. Benedict.  He said, “your [...]

We will get through this particular passage. Panic is not needed. Instead, it is time for a calm head and a warm heart.

Earlier this month, fifteen women gathered at the Cedarbrake retreat center in Belton, Texas. For several days, we sought silence, [...]

Since last fall, excitement has been building for our 2020 program year featuring the theme of INTERSPIRITUALITY AND COMPASSION FOR SELF, [...]

The Winter Solstice has passed and the days ahead will gradually gain minutes of daylight.  The longest night of the year has come and [...]

At last, we can feel that the earth has shifted on its axis and we are beginning to move away from the heat of summer. Our bodies enjoy the [...]

This past weekend, fourteen women gathered at Cedarbrake Retreat Center in Belton for an Eremos Retreat. Each of us came with all the [...]

One of the benefits of taking time to stop and listen for the voice of God is that we can become aware that we do have a choice.  Before we [...]

Humans collect things; it’s in our nature. Beautiful things, useful things, practical things, and things we might possibly use in the [...]

On this first official day of summer—the Summer Solstice—I invite you to consider your typical summer flow. Do things slow down and give [...]

So many of us spend time searching for our “purpose.”  We seek “God’s will” for our lives.  We long to be “on the right path.”  As we live [...]

Guest Reflection by John Fox (excerpt from letter posted on poeticmedicine.org, with permission) Dear Friends in Poetry, I make deep claims [...]

For those of us in the Christian tradition, this Easter season can teach some deep lessons. If we take the time to look beyond the colorful [...]

The Texas bluebonnets that give us so much joy are appearing on the roadsides. I find myself breaking into a smile at the sight of these [...]

February can sometimes seem like the longest month. Even though there are only 28 days in the month, the transition from January’s stark [...]

We have the Advent season to anticipate Christmas Joy.  As I walk through this December, the hope of Advent seems to be even more needed.  [...]

Heeding the quiet voice within to experience God in the silence can sometime seem like such a passive gesture when confronted with living [...]

As mid-term elections approach, anxiety levels are increasing for so many. Natural disasters like Hurricane Florence and angry words [...]

Some define contemplative living as leading a less busy, more quiet life or engaging in certain practices such as meditation, centering [...]

This past Tuesday, I (Dianna) met with our long-time volunteer, Nancy Jewett, to begin sorting through the many quotes or writings we have [...]

Eremos has been a busy hive of activity this past week.  The weekend was full, with Paula Loring’s Journaling Grief workshop and the [...]

Like a college graduate embarking upon a new life, Eremos is moving on to the next phase of its journey. We’re feeling the same [...]

In memory of the recent passing of our Spiritual Amma, Jean Springer, we are re-posting her 2017 Easter blog post. Re-reading it with the [...]

In memory of the recent passing of our Spiritual Amma, Jean Springer, we are re-posting her 2017 Good Friday and Easter blog posts. [...]

Love one another as I have loved you. My whole life has been dedicated to knowing love and longing to have others know love no matter what [...]

The pathway of 2017 has led us to the doorway of 2018. For many of us, the wind of change has blown carrying us into the unpredictability [...]

Advent 2017 has begun. Sunday, I sat in the silence of my heart and the quiet of Eremos before lighting our first candle of Advent. [...]

We slipped into November so quietly. The Oak Trees have dropped their acorns, the days of light have become shorter, nights have become [...]

October has always seemed like the beginning of the holidays, with children running around the neighborhood looking for a treat or offering [...]

With so much going on in Texas, where do we focus our attention? Where do we offer our support? How can we realistically respond to another [...]

Working with people in spiritual direction, I’ve witnessed how many of us want to revert to what now seems like a simpler life. Many would [...]

“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable [...]

In my early adult years Father’s Day was a special day for letting my father know I loved and appreciated him.  But in the years since his [...]

“Nobody could love me like Tom does” was a remark that set me to reflecting on the miracle of marriage.

In some cultures, placing flowers on the graves of relatives who have died is still part of ‘Memorial Day’. They remember, give thanks and [...]

When I began pondering the meaning of this month of May, I kept sensing it is about requesting: “May I…” and giving permission.

One of the most difficult Christian celebrations for many people is Easter. Well, not so much Easter because we have made it a secular [...]

There is a quote from Ron Rolheiser that puts these ‘high holy days’ in perspective. Good Friday: is about the loss of life. Easter Sunday: [...]

“So many challenges and confrontations have come at me this week” said a young pastor as she sat down in the Eremos glider. “I can’t see [...]

In his book entitled Confessions, St. Augustin of Hippo wrote the following: What does love look like? It has hands to help others. It has [...]

A new year begins reminding us of the cycle of life – we are always beginning again. Each new year is an invitation to be open to new [...]

“Last year I was pregnant and gave birth to my son two days before Christmas” said a young woman anticipating Christmas. She went on [...]

“Will you hold the darkness with me this Advent?” was the question I posed to the members of Eremos’ monthly contemplative groups. [...]

Like so many people, I have been wondering how we can all heal once a new president is elected. With such a divided country, some people [...]

In my September blog, I used a line from Teresa of Avila which read: “Christ has no body now but yours No hands, no feet on earth but yours [...]

Horrendous floods, devastating tornados, blistering fires, violent earthquakes – is Mother Nature raging at all the abuse she has suffered [...]

What an amazing gift—to sit and gaze at the beauty and simplicity of a maple tree! While on vacation, with time and space to be truly [...]

I confess it has been years since I actually read the Declaration of Independence.  With all that is going on in our country and the [...]

“There is nothing hidden that won’t be revealed” Jesus said to his disciples. As I look at the violence erupting in our country and our [...]

Our cities and towns are filled with veterans who have served our country — many returning proud of their service, and many traumatized, [...]

I went shopping for a ‘Mother’s Day’ card recently.  I wanted to get it in the mail a week early so it would arrive in time for May 8th. My [...]

There was such joy-filled excitement May 8, 1996.  I opened the box containing our Eremos Board Minutes file and the official embossing [...]

In his Easter message last year, Pope Francis lamented the suffering of people because of the conflicts currently making headlines and he [...]

Guest Blog Post: John Fox, co-facilitator with Mirabai Starr of Eremos’ upcoming event: The Heartbeat of Hope: Life-Giving Nourishment in [...]

Within the Christian experience, we’re now immersed in the intensity of ‘holy week’. There are so many themes running through it that it is [...]

Guest Post by Manning Wolfe Buckminster Fuller espoused the idea that a strong context is needed to foster lasting content. In other words, [...]

For so many people, February’s focus seems to be Valentine’s Day.  Roses fill the stores and jewelry and perfume are advertised as signs of [...]

As I sit here on the threshold of a new year, I am reminded of all the people who have supported us.  Our Board of Directors, our [...]

“The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; Upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom A light has shone.” Isaiah 9:1 With [...]

So many questions fill our minds and hearts as we anticipate this celebration of Thanksgiving Day. I have listened to radio hosts question [...]

Over these past few days, I have been inspired by the voices coming out of Washington! Joe Biden in his statement to the American people [...]

For seven years I visited a man in a local nursing home. As my relationship with him grew in those seven years, so did my connections with [...]

The cry for peace has filled my thoughts lately as Eremos and many in the city of Austin prepare to focus of PEACE this month. After two [...]

“When we find our vocation we begin to live from this place inside us, deepening our personality, our unique way of being in God, and [...]

Flags are waving in the breeze as people begin preparing for 4th of July celebrations.  Are they a reminder of the past struggles against [...]

The month of April we spent contemplating Andrew Harvey’s book The Hope:  A Guide to Sacred Activism.  If you have not read it, I highly [...]

He is Risen!

This week I have watched lives disintegrate and have shared in the terror, grief and pain people have experienced.  Once again, my heart [...]

A picture I hold in my soul comes from walking out of a silent church after my baptism as a young adult.  It was December in Connecticut [...]

Guest Blog Post from Andrew Harvey As the world plunges into deeper chaos, even the hardiest of souls can experience despair and lose hope [...]

“When you think of the word poor, what does that evoke for you?” was the opening question of a presentation on Poverty in Texas.  The [...]

There is something amazing that happens as we anticipate a new year.  All the people who serve me smile and bid me good bye with “happy new [...]

The neighborhood is beautiful with gentle lights decorating so many homes.  The air is crisp, the stars twinkle in the dark sky as all of [...]

This blessing expresses our deep wish for each of you this wonderful Thanksgiving Season.  Whether you are with friends, family or in the [...]

For Dia de los Muertos we sat enfolded in profound silence.  Pictures of friends and family who have died filled the alter reminding us [...]

“There is so much death around me these days” a woman said to me yesterday. As I reflected on her statement, two others said something [...]

“And all of us, with unveiled faces, seeing the glory of the Lord as though reflected in a mirror, are being transformed into the same [...]

“I just don’t want to do anything”.  “I don’t have any energy lately”.  Comments I keep hearing as we journey deeper into summer’s [...]

In spiritual direction, on phone calls, and in email exchanges, I hear “There is so much loss in my life I don’t know how to cope.” [...]

In his beautiful poem ‘Spiritual Canticle’ John of the Cross (16th century mystic) wrote in stanza 13 My Beloved, the mountains The [...]

I was intrigued by this small comment found in the Gospel according to John. I wondered what my breath conveyed to people in my life. June [...]

Please join me and the Eremos community as we remember the men and women who have died in service to America and their dream of freedom. We [...]

“Give thanks to the Lord who is good, whose love is everlasting” Psalm 118 This refrain sums up my soul as I reflect on Eremos becoming a [...]

“There is a quiet light that shines in every heart” writes John O’’Donohue in his book ‘To Bless the Space Between Us’.  And how amazing it [...]

As I sit to write, a cold blast of wind from the north has darkened the sky, caused the tree branches to twist and turn, plant leaves [...]

Recently a woman spoke to me of the restlessness she felt just before giving birth. Her sense of ‘it is time to bring forth this baby’ made [...]

    In an amazing poem by Thich Nhat Hanh, “Interrelationship,” he speaks of the depth of relationship we are called to.   [...]

Twice a day, every day, a 92 year old man goes to the nursing home to feed his wife. Some days she seems to recognize him and he is [...]

“I am not making any new year resolutions as I never keep them” I overheard someone proclaim from the table next to me at a local [...]

“We are going to have a baby” proclaimed a neighbor some months ago!  You could see the joyful anticipation of this young man who could not [...]

We have come so far from that first ‘Thanksgiving Day’. Inspired by the fruits of the earth, people gathered in gratitude as they [...]

November is a month of many different moments and movements. I found myself pondering death and recalled the often quoted: ‘A seed must die [...]

On a recent retreat, one of the women said “I can hear the earth sing’. We had a much longed for rain, the sky was beautiful and the earth [...]

“There is a quiet light that shines in every heart” — John O’Donohue Recently, I sat with a woman in spiritual direction as she tried to [...]

Summer is such an amazing gift of time to step back from the busyness of life and behold the Source of life more freely. A part of my [...]

One of the traditions I have each July 4th is to actually read the Declaration of Independence. It seems each year something different [...]

A few days ago, I met with three young women and a five-week old baby girl. As with most gatherings of women and babies, all our eyes were [...]

As I sat in the quiet of the early morning, pondering the events of this past week, a phrase from scripture came to me ‘All of us, gazing [...]

“I don’t feel like Easter has come yet” one woman said this week. She lives with chronic pain at a level 10 most days and in the pain, [...]

As I gaze out into the beauty of a soft sunny day in Austin. I hear the song of birds excited to be alive, calling to one another with [...]

As I sit with people reflecting on these 40 days Christian communities call Lent, I hear a similar question: “I want this time to be [...]

Today I heard stories from two amazing parents. The first story came from our ‘service man’ who was bursting with joy. He has a three year [...]

We stand on the threshold of 2013 being drawn by all the hope that a new year contains. Only a few days into the new year and already I [...]

Homes are beautifully lit, candles fill the darkness with their gentle flame, people reach out to one another as a testimony to the Love [...]

As many of you know, my family roots are in Maine and Connecticut.  The season of Advent always calls my heart back to the winter snow that [...]

There is a hunger, a yearning within each of us, a kind of itch that can’t be scratched reminding us there is something more calling for [...]

The small Wrens were dancing with the Live Oak branches creating a rhythm that caused my heart to fly.  The cool morning air in the clear [...]

Some years ago we had a wonderful wooden well in our front lawn. The well somehow survived three moves, lots of rain, heat, cold and wind [...]

I was asked today, “How does one talk about contemplation? It is so hard to explain–especially for people who have no [...]

I was at an ordination this weekend in which the newly ordained pastor was commissioned with one word: ‘Behold’.  The young woman stood [...]

Visiting a local nursing home facility yesterday, I smiled at one of the residents, greeted her and touched her shoulder gently.  She [...]

One of the passages from the Hebrew Scriptures that touches me deeply each time I read it comes from the Prophet Hosea Chapter 2: [...]

It is with great pleasure that we announce our new Executive Director, Dianna Amorde. We are confident that Dianna possesses the qualities [...]

I know Mother’s Day creates stress for many men and women.  I have had my own struggle with it over the years.  But this year I [...]

Where is God when hopes and dreams are lost?  So many people these days are finding their worlds turned upside down for one reason or [...]

All around the world, Christian people have gathered  shouting the Easter proclamation: The Lord is truly risen, alleluia In a world so [...]

In a poem by Hafiz we are invited and challenged to see beyond rush of these three days and nights.  We are called to deepen our openness [...]

Like so many people today, sitting in church for our Passion Sunday service, I was struck by the utter fidelity of Jesus in the face of [...]

In group spiritual direction at the seminary today a student proclaimed: “I heard God’s voice loudly in class today.  BE a [...]

The journey into a new year seems to hold tension for so many people.  There are high expectations that I will be different or my life [...]

“What did you go out into the desert to see?’ Jesus asked. I, too, wondered what I was seeking this Advent. I know I felt inspired to [...]

As we enter the second week of Advent, the words of the Prophet Isaiah echo within the Eremos community. “I am so torn with the sight [...]

The stores have already prepared for the season of Christmas. I can only imagine the many hours that managers and staff have put into the [...]

So much has been happening within Eremos that gives me cause to pause and give thanks. We have just completed our first workshop series for [...]

I have to smile at the celebration of labor.  For most of us it is a day without focus on the work we typically do.  It is a day of […]

In the Gospel according to Matthew, there is an amazing story of the disciples in a storm. They see Jesus coming to them, but do not [...]

Four hours of total relaxation in the beautiful water garden of Betsy and Frank Aylin’s home. I don’t recall the last time I was so [...]

Over these past days, I have been confronted by the stories of individuals being escorted out of the workplace because their positions were [...]

…Marie Angele facilitated a creative workshop on the Mandala? …14 women journeyed to Cedarbrake Renewal Center in Belton for a [...]

I sat in a room at Christopher House. The air was cold, the room was silent and a man seemed peaceful as he breathed in and out. He had [...]

Eremos is 15 years old! We are fifteen years in the emerging of a contemplative space within Austin. Some of you here were part of Eremos [...]

It was late at night.  I sat in ICU waiting room while the nurses worked on a precious woman whom I was visiting.  I was there waiting [...]

The trumpet-shave sounded, the bells have resounded, songs have been sung and all around people have felt joy, peace and blessing. It is [...]

Our visiting priest commented on Sunday “I will be in Dallas for the marathon’.  People chuckled knowing that he was talking about the [...]

Commenting on the biblical story of Adam and Eve and God’s invitation to have the fruit from every tree except one, John Kavanaugh writes [...]

Once again, as I anticipate six weeks of Lent, I hear the Prophet Joel cry out on God’s behalf:  ‘come back to me with all your [...]

As I ponder the events of this past month, I hear the words of Scripture proclaimed anew: “I have seen the miserable state of my people and [...]

“How does a touched heart pray?” is a question posed by Macrina Wiederkehr. Life touches us every moment of the day. Sometimes we are fully [...]

I had a great chuckle the other morning when as I awoke from a dream, I heard myself proclaiming the words: ‘We are on the threshold of [...]

“You are my Son, this day have I begotten you” PS 2:7 It is Christmas! I am in awe at the event we celebrate today: Christmas is here! God [...]

One of the purposes of Eremos is to invite people to step back from the busyness of life and behold the Source of life. In years past, I [...]

This year, our Advent has been one of focusing on peace. With all that people have experienced this year in terms of wars and job [...]

There are so many moments for giving thanks this year.  We have been blessed beyond measure with the support of the people who have shared [...]

There is a saying: ‘when the student is ready the teacher will come’. And over this past weekend, I have discovered another side of this [...]

Recently I was talking with a friend who challenged my identity, sense direction and questioned my very purpose in life (at least that was [...]

When asked for at least the second time ‘Do you have your web update ready?’ I responded ‘No, I just don’t feel inspired to write [...]

One gift I pray for each day is the gift of Wisdom – that overflow of Love through which I become open to the Spirit within all life. It is [...]

In a recent gathering of the women’s group ‘Sisters of Diversity’ we took time to contemplate our childhood memories of summer. For most of [...]

As a child growing up in a small town in Maine, Memorial Day was a special event. Our neighboring town held a parade with soldiers in full [...]

What is there about diminishment that feels so humiliating? I hear stories each week of people who have lost jobs and homes, whose grown [...]

We join with the Earth and with each other. To bring new life to the land To restore the waters To refresh the air We join with the Earth [...]

In a recent group spiritual direction session with seminarians, a line from scripture captured my attention. “Jesus was raised from the [...]

Scripture says that ‘Jesus set his face resolutely toward Jerusalem” (Luke 9:51). I have been so aware of people’s journeys these days of [...]

I am both amazed and amused when I reflect on the number of individuals who have said “I want to go deeper” these past weeks. My amazement [...]

The devastation in Haiti has impacted each of us and the whole world.  We watch and wait to see if a miracle can take place in the  midst [...]

Time seems to pass so quickly. I had intended to write a note to wish everyone a blessed new year, but Christmas flowed into a new year and [...]

Our Prayer for You from the Eremos Community May you daily open the gift of your life and be grateful for the hidden treasures it contains. [...]

Each of us at one time or another has wondered what happens when we die.  Listening to people who engage that question, most say they are [...]

Years ago when we chose the name ‘Shifting Sands’ for our newsletter, someone asked me why we called it ‘Shifting [...]

One of the purpose statements is that we offer people an opportunity to step back from the busyness of life and contemplate the Source of [...]

There is a mystical line from William Blake that Thomas Merton quotes ‘we are put on earth for a little space that we may learn to bear the [...]

One of the phrases I keep hearing from people (myself included) is:  I am so busy! I am not sure what this actually means.  Is it that we [...]

In his Blessing called Presence, John O’Donohue prayed these words: “May you awaken to the mystery of being here and enter the [...]

Today the Christian church proclaims to the world “He is Risen Alleluia!” What joy floods our minds and hearts as we celebrate [...]

Life has a way of serving us curve balls – things come at us in unexpected ways.  For many of us these events or circumstances seem [...]

“I am so frightened!” kept coming from the woman across the hall from me. She was confused, alone, and confined to her hospital [...]

There is such hope and joy in the air these days. Washington DC is filled with people who want to be ‘there’ for this historic moment for [...]

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, I find my mind reflecting on the similarity between the birth of a new year and that of a [...]

Dear One, I can think of no better greeting for Christmas than the blessing of Joyce Rupp as so it is also my blessing for you this year. A [...]

The stores are dressed for Christmas shopping hoping to attract the cash flow they need to stay open during this financial crunch. It is [...]