CLIS Open Lecture on Zoom - Susan Oakes
From 14:30 until 15:30
Zoom Meeting
Free
John Wickenden / [email protected]
Susan Oakes, a former law librarian, shared her journey from traditional legal work to leading retreats and embracing contemplative practices, including her experiences with spiritual direction and meditation. She discussed various forms of spiritual retreats and pilgrimages, emphasizing the benefits of silence, self-reflection, and connection with nature, while providing resources for further exploration of contemplative practices. The group explored how contemporary trends and social media have influenced increased interest in contemplative practices and walking pilgrimages, with discussions about incorporating quiet activities into daily life and the importance of creating sacred spaces for reflection.
Journey from Law to Contemplation
Susan, a former law librarian and now a retreat leader, shared her journey from a traditional law library role to embracing contemplative practices and spiritual direction. She discussed her experiences working in various law firms and the University of Law, highlighting the challenges of modernizing legal research and the importance of creating space for reflection amidst a stressful work environment. Susan emphasized the transformative power of silence and contemplation, drawing on her faith journey and experiences leading retreats. She explained the concept of spiritual direction as creating a sacred space for individuals to explore their relationship with God and discover their true selves.
Transformative Spiritual Retreats and Pilgrimages
Susan discussed various forms of spiritual retreats and pilgrimages, emphasizing the benefits of silence, self-reflection, and connection with nature. She shared her experiences with individually guided retreats, where participants engage in daily reflection and prayer in silence, and introduced the concept of pilgrimage as a transformative journey. Susan highlighted the importance of intention and physical challenges in pilgrimage, mentioning her own experiences and those of others, including a peace pilgrimage led by Satish Kumar. She also provided resources for further exploration of contemplative practices, spiritual direction, and pilgrimage opportunities in the UK.
Contemplative Practices and Youth Trends
Susan discussed her experiences with Christian meditation and pilgrimage, sharing personal stories about finding peace and community through silent prayer groups and walking retreats. She noted that young people today, particularly those in their 30s, are seeking more meaningful and less stressful experiences, which has led to increased interest in contemplative practices and walking pilgrimages. The group discussed how television shows and social media have influenced this trend, with Janice mentioning that her church offers contemplative prayer sessions and quiet days, while Rachel shared her observations of young people participating in imaginative worship at Iona.
Benefits of Silent Retreat Activities
Rachel and Susan discussed the benefits of silent meals during retreats, emphasizing the lack of pressure and the opportunity to rest and recharge. They also explored the idea of incorporating quiet activities closer to home, such as Lansony Priory, and the potential for an Iona weekend in October. Janice inquired about Susan's experience with a prayer group at work, highlighting the challenges of organizing such groups due to limited participation. Susan shared her experience of a small but dedicated group and noted the importance of faithfulness over numbers. The conversation ended with a prayer, reflecting on the importance of listening to the "still small voice" in times of silence.