Rest into a slower pace: Wisdom from Rev. Sherry Ward as we prepare for a season of light
Labyrinth at Retreat House
We call her our loving-kindness cultivator.
She makes a pot of soup on Wednesdays at Retreat House Spirituality Center for all to enjoy. Her keen ears for listening as well as eyes for beauty are a gift to those she companions. And, her thoughtfulness can be felt and seen in the many details she tends to in our community and throughout our house. We are grateful.
Rev. Sherry Ward is a trained spiritual director, retired pastor and former registered nurse. In addition to all of these roles, Sherry serves on the board at Retreat House. Loving-kindness seems to come easy for Sherry, but she’ll tell you that it is through intentionality, prayer and quiet reflection that she makes space for this chesed to emerge.
For the past several years, Sherry has hosted, along with our co-founder Rev. Dr. Lil Smith, silent retreats. The silence isn’t punitive, and there is some talking. We recently connected with Sherry to learn a bit more about this spiritual practice.
Retreat House: In looking at the focus for December 7, Season of Light: Soul Connections, what words of wisdom do you have to share regarding embracing the seasons? Both literally and figuratively?
Sherry: In a literal sense we are nearing then end of 2022. It's been a year of both light and darkness. As we enter December, the days become shorter. Light beckons to us! Advent, Hanukkah and Kwanza, all have candle lighting as a part of the celebration of these very meaningful events in our respective communities.
“Light in the darkness is God’s invitation to us that all will be well.”
I believe Retreat House is a house of connection. It is a place where people can come to share their stories in a safe, welcoming, hospitable atmosphere. It's a place where the Light shines and transformation can occur. It is a place of soul connection.
Retreat House: For those who have never attended a silent retreat, what is the attraction/benefit? And, I you know I know the answer to this, but I want to ask for the benefit of those who might be totally new to this concept and thinking is there any talking?!
Sherry: Silent retreat really is a time to unplug from your usual routine. A time to just rest in a slower pace. It is a time to just BE. In the time of silence and reflection it is often easier to hear the Holy. We talk at the beginning and then invite ourselves into silence. The silence is not meant to be punitive, rather it is a Blessing once you embrace it. Necessary talking is fine in order to take care of your needs. Our time of silence is really refraining from our usual chatter and being considerate of others in their quest for silence.
Retreat House: When did you begin incorporating silent retreats into your rhythm of life?
Sherry: I was introduced to silent retreats during my time at Lexington Theological Seminary. My first one was at Sisters of Charity in Nazareth, Kentucky one cold January in 1995. I had a lot to learn about silent retreats! The Sister who led our time was most kind and gracious to us. It was difficult for me "not to need" to fill the time of silence with my words! I have attended and led silent retreats in the years since then and it is always my joy to be with others in the silence.
Retreat House: Any hopes for the upcoming retreat time in December?
Sherry: It is my hope and prayer that we will each listen more closely to God and to ourselves. In taking time to reflect and ponder on what is claiming our attention we are being renewed.
Looking for a time to unwind, rest and reflect?
Join us in person at Retreat House for a silent retreat on Dec. 7. where Sherry will lead participants in a time of guided prayer and reflection. Our focus: “Seasons of Light: Soul Connections.” Join us as a prepare for Advent, Hannukah and Kwanzaa.”
Learn more and register. Retreat House Spirituality Center is an interfaith community. All are welcome at the table.
This article was written by Emily Turner. Part of Emily’s ministry and desire is to facilitate spiritual and emotional healing through listening, loving presence, prayer, and writing. She is a trained spiritual director. Learn more.
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Blessings,
Sherry