Betsey Beckman and I led the Friday evening plenary session for the Spiritual Directors International conference in Atlanta on “Cultivating the Elements of a Compassionate Heart” where we explored the four sacred elements of water, wind, earth, and fire through visual art, writing, movement, and song. Below is the visual meditation I created for the opening. These are my photos which were received in prayer accompanied by Peter Mayer’s beautiful song “Holy Now” (which you can order here). I am very grateful to Peter for his permission to post this video to the Abbey blog so others can receive its gifts.
Peter Mayer is an enormously gifted singer and songwriter from Minnesota. You can find his music at his website. I am blessed to have had the opportunity to hear him in concert twice now and use his songs regularly in gatherings and retreats. Some of my favorite songs include “Holy Now” (from Million Year Mind), “God is a River” (from Midwinter), “O Sun” (from Elements), “Coming Home” (from Earth Town Square), “Like a Mountain” (from Million Year Mind), “The String” (from Bountiful), “The Birthday Party” (from Elements) and “Church of the Earth” (from Heaven Below). Click on “CD/Lyrics” and there you can find all of his albums listed with links to CDBaby where you can hear samples and buy songs.
I offer this as a gift to you. Enter into a visual and aural meditation with creation this day. Honor the earth from which all life is possible.
14 Responses
What a beautiful and powerful video. As I watched, heard the music and words “everything is holy now” I was saying “YES, EVERYTHING IS HOLY.”
Thank you for speaking and singing the truth; I can relax, knowing that it is so!
Thank You! What an incredible prayer experience.
What a spiritual treat, like all genuine treats. Came on a day when I am recovering from some dental surgery. Has been the highlight of the day, well maybe next to the time the “perk” finally kicked in. Thanks. Harvey
Thank you so much for that! I needed those 5 minutes to reflect on God’s holiness in all of creation, just now. Perfect timing, perfect images and perfect words. ~Susan
Thank you!
This was like a drink of clear water that satisfied a thirst I barely knew I had. The song was just wonderful, and reflects my experience (on the good days, that is). Thank you
Thank You.
Thank you for the beautiful and inspiring reminder to celebrate the sacrament of a new day.
I would love to use this YouTube video when I lead a retreat on the theme “Open Our Eyes”. Do I need any kind of permission?
I’m the director of the Summer Institute for Spiritual Formation (a two-week training event for spiritual directors and for ministers who want to practice soul care in congregations) at Eastern Mennonite Seminary in Harrisonburg, VA.
I would use this on June 20, 2011. –Linda
Absolutely beautiful images and words!
Mayer’s voice and music combined with the breathtaking pictures was truly a prayer experience.
Thank you for sharing.