What We Want to Live For

20Mar

On Ash Wednesday, I closed my sermon with one of my very favorite quotes from Thomas Merton, monk of the Abbey of Gethsemani in Nelson County, KY, prolific writer, and spiritual guide for our times.

I'm sharing it again in the form of the meme posted here.

Does it speak to you? Does it help you refocus in the midst of this Lenten season?

What are we doing all this for? For whom are we doing it? Are we purposeful or just busy? Are we playing checkers or chess?

If you have let go of something during this Lent, how's it going for you without it?

If you have taken up something during this Lent, how's it going for you with it?

As you pray and make your way through this annual retreat of discernment and realignment we call Lent--which means "lengthening" and is a synonym for "spring"--what is growing in you? What is springing forth and bringing you life?

Ask yourself in Thomas Merton's words, "What is keeping me from living fully for the thing I want to live for?"

Padre's Blog A la Mote
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Posted by The Very Reverend Donna S. Mote, PhD

Our 34th rector, Dr Mote, was installed by Bishop Eaton on Saturday, June 5th, 2021.  Prior to joining St Paul's, she served as the Vicar of ATL (Episcopal Chaplain to Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport).  With Bishop Robert C. Wright she authored, The Go Guide: 10 Steps for Innovations in Ministry from Luke 10. Beginning in 2016, Donna served on the bishop's staff as Missioner for Engagement and Innovation in the Diocese of Atlanta, to consult on, coach, strategize, support, promote, and provoke innovations in ministry in Middle and North Georgia.  She was also Chaplain to the Georgia State Defense Force and the 76th Support Brigade.

Donna earned degrees from Shorter College (BA), Southern Seminary (MDiv), and Emory University’s Graduate Division of Religion (PhD) and completed Anglican studies at Sewanee: The University of the South. Donna was raised up for ordination by the parish of St Bartholomew’s, Atlanta. She is an Associate of the Order of St Helena.  Donna is married to Rebecca England, and they have two sons, Anderson and Jordan.

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