Week 16 (July 5-11)

Every Friday, for the past 15 weeks, we have offered this invitation into a worldwide communal silence and prayer. Contemplation is at the heart of Sacred Heart spirituality and vital to informing our conscience and our actions. Once again, we invite you to join in Espacio, or space, in the spirit of oneness with our God and with one another as we continue to hold hope during this time of global pandemic, combat the evils of racism, and work tirelessly for justice for our sisters and brothers of color. 

Please join our Sacred Heart community worldwide at: 
12 p.m. PDT
1 p.m. MDT
2 p.m. CDT
3 p.m. EDT
4 p.m. ADT
7 p.m. GMT

How does one begin?

Espacio is simple and practical. The first step is to decide that such space in one’s life is of value. Having made this decision, it is helpful to consider when and where such space is possible given the reality of life. Try and make the time and space consistent. Another important decision involves adopting certain practices to help yourself remain attentive during the silence. Some people do a simple breathing exercise; others pick a word that can be repeated quietly when distractions come in and out of our minds. Once these decisions have been made, begin.

  • Breathe in and out quietly to become settled and calm.
  • Remind yourself through a simple prayer your desire to open your heart to the Spirit dwelling within.
  • Enjoy the five minutes or so of silence.
  • When distractions appear, quietly say your word with the desire to return to the silence you seek.
  • End with a prayer of gratitude and/or petition.
  • Please keep in mind that espacio is intended to be a simple and helpful way of preparing our hearts and minds to receive the gift of intimate relationship with the divine.
     

Source: Sacred Heart Educators: An Orientation to Mission