Entries by TCS Administrator

Fostering our Connection

Mercy. An old-fashioned word that conjures up so many contrasting images. Mercy is “a bond,” writes Cynthia Bourgeault in Mystical Hope, “an infallible link of love that holds the created and uncreated realms together.”  Far from condescension or political power, the origin of the word mercy points instead to a flow of connectedness, reciprocity, and exchange….

Remembering “the Goodness of God” – Reflection by Linda Coggin

Julian of Norwich seems to be everywhere. At least, since The Contemplative Society’s online retreat in August, I have noticed this. I have noticed Julian’s presence in conversations with friends, in books I’m reading, and while listening to podcasts. Since the retreat, Julian’s teachings have woven their way into my everyday contemplative practice.

Sacred Virtual Retreat Space – Reflection by Martha Keller

Enjoy this generous reflection provided by Martha Keller from Victoria BC.  Martha was one of 100 people who participated in our recent virtual event with Matthew Wright, where he offered his heartful and profound insights, teaching, and practices on the theme of “Julian of Norwich…A Voice for Our Times.”

Mystical Hope – Vital Sustenance for our Times

In 2001 Cynthia Bourgeault published a grace-filled guide for facing difficult times, offering insights and pointers in the small and powerful book entitled MYSTICAL HOPE: Trusting in the Mercy of God.  Many in Cynthia’s community and beyond are turning (or re-turning) to this book to navigate current concerns and challenges, and finding it a source of deep spiritual sustenance. 

September 2020 Update and Message from TCS Board

Dear Contemplative Friends,

This has been a year of momentous change and uncertainty!

Here at The Contemplative Society, we have been prayerfully discerning our future path through the challenges and opportunities during this tumultuous time. The Board has made some difficult decisions to reduce administrative costs and bring expenses into alignment with income…..

Eye of the Heart: A Spiritual Journey into the Imaginal Realm – by Cynthia Bourgeault

In Eye of the Heart, Cynthia Bourgeault investigates the imaginal realm–an energetic realm well known to the mystical traditions but often forgotten in our own times. It is invisible to the physical eye, but clearly perceptible through the eye of the heart. The imaginal realm has long been associated with the personal world of dreams, prophecy, and oracles, and it also points toward a higher vision of our human purpose that is both evolutionary and collective…

POOL OF WISDOM: A Spiritual Autobiography by Mary-Clare Carder

MARY-CLARE CARDER is a piano teacher by profession with a
BMus from the University of Victoria. She is a lifelong
Anglican and has participated in dozens of silent retreats and
contemplative workshops over the last 30 years. She has led
several contemplative workshops and quiet days.