Director of Lifespan Faith Formation 12.3.25

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“Hope just means another world might be possible, not promised.” – Rebecca Solnit

“These times are urgent. Let us slow down.” – Bayo Akomolafe

Reflecting on and creating from December’s monthly theme of hope may bring us both a sense of rest and unrest. Community building and justice work is a long, ongoing labor, in which we can use our imagination as fuel, allowing our grand visions for this world to inspire us rather than discourage us. That brings us both back to the necessity of our commitments and reminds us that we get to reject cultures of individualism and urgency.

Slowing down doesn’t always mean that we are accomplishing less of what our values guide us toward. Sometimes, slowing down means practicing enough intentionality and integrity in the choice we are making that it frees up energy to do more of what matters most – to create more than we consume, to practice regular moments of stillness among the noise, to care in ways that are more nourishing than depleting by considering our diverse needs, and to understand our growth as cyclical rather than exponential.

May we allow ourselves to find a sustainable pace through this dark, cold season, reducing capital consumption, giving generously, listening deeply, resting fully, and restoring a sense of balance. Let us see winter as an opportunity for gestation that ultimately serves the greater good. May slowness not only sustain us but allow for our flourishing.

 

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