Advent Retreat, A Journey to Christmastide

Advent for many of us is a favourite time of the church year. It’s about contemplating beginning anew as we move towards the coming of Christ into the world. We’ll spend a morning looking at images of the Black Madonna, found in many European churches and cathedrals.  Are they just black because of candle and incense smoke or do they have something different to tell us about the faith journey? These are not young women holding a baby Jesus close to them but older more mature women, seated and lightly holding an image of a more mature Christ.  Come join us as we explore some of these images and how they might inform our faith journey towards Chirstmastide… and yes, there will be snacks.

Facilitator: The Rev. April Stantley

April is a retired parish priest, hospital chaplain, and labyrinth facilitator.  She has created many labyrinths including at St. Paul's Anglican Church, Vancouver, Sorrento Centre and at Vancouver School of Theology. Her thesis for her DMin was on creativity as a spiritual practice.

Cost: $20 or Pay from the heart, at the door