Video Series: A Healing Circle of Love

By Kathy Keary

Our full series in the Contemplative Prayer Video Series is here.

Revisit earlier articles in our Contemplative Life Series here.

This week I will lead you in a guided meditation where you will invite those dear to you into a Circle of Love. Experience the healing rays of authentic community.

Last year at the Renewal Center we gathered for a few weeks to reflect upon the book, Spiritual Gems of Islam by Jamal Rahman. The book uncovered the beauty of Sufism, the mystical arm of Islam. One of the chapters covered the value of authentic community. Community is emphasized in all the major faith traditions including my own, Catholicism.

Rahman points out the importance of being in a supportive community with people who share our values. These people encourage our spiritual growth and are there for us when we falter. He refers to metaphors appearing in the poetry of Rumi, a 13^th century Persian poet:

A wall standing alone is useless, but together with other walls it can support a roof. Rushes and reeds left on their own may blow away in the wind, but when woven together they may serve as a roof for shelter or a mat for rest. When wool meets with a gifted carpet maker, it becomes a miracle of rich design.

The group at the Renewal Center found a guided meditation that Rahman included to be healing. By using our imagination, we can gather our authentic community to support us on the journey of life. I share a modified version of this interspiritual meditation with you today with the hope that you too will be enriched by it like we were.

I invite you to relax. Close your eyes and focus for a moment on your breath.

Using your imagination, allow yourself to drift into a sacred sanctuary – a place that is absolutely safe, beautiful, and filled with energies of healing and love. Perhaps this is a familiar place or one you create in your mind’s eye.

Summon your inner Circle of Love. This may include loved ones living or deceased, prophets, saints, historical figures, animals, trees, anyone or anything your heart desires.

It is in the nature of these members to love you. Imagine them showering you with love and light. Some or all of them come up to you and hold you tenderly. Allow yourself to be cherished, nurtured, and nourished. Surrender into the love and compassion they hold for you.

It’s time to say good-bye to each member of your circle. Receive their thanks and blessings.

Come back to the room knowing you can return to this circle anytime that you wish.

The awesome thing about this Circle of Love is that you can recreate it anytime and feel the love of your authentic community.

Remember to sign up for our book study that will be held on four Thursday mornings beginning July 14^th. As I read Peter Russell’s book, Letting Go of Nothing: Relax Your Mind and Discover the Wonder of Your True Nature, I kept thinking: “I have to share this at the Renewal Center.” It is rich in wisdom. I hope you will join us either in-person or on Zoom. Click on the link for more information and an opportunity to register.

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[Kathy Keary, spiritual director, holds a bachelor’s degree in education, a master’s degree in theological studies, and completed Sophia Center’s Souljourners Program, an intense study of spirituality and spiritual direction. Kathy believes that the Divine is present and active in all of life and encourages others to be awakened to the God in all including the Divine within. She enjoys accompanying others on their journey to wholeness discovering the person they were created to be.]

Photo 152117865 / Circle Love © catiamadio | Dreamstime.com

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