1. Mary of the Annunciation

Start:
Allow your body and mind to slow down. Become aware of the presence of God.

Light the candle which symbolises the light of Christ.

Hope: To become more aware of God’s presence in my life.

Begin with a brief conversation with God asking to be open for the grace which you hope for during this time of retreat.

Introduction:
Like Mary of the Annunciation we are open to the movement of God in our lives, a God for whom nothing is impossible. Despite our doubts, fears and feelings of inadequacy, we accept in faith God’s invitation to participate in the work of spreading the Good News. In an age of independence, we make room for God.

Luke 1:26-38 | The Annunciation
In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent by God to a town in Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin engaged to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David. The virgin’s name was Mary. And he came to her and said, “Greetings, favoured one! The Lord is with you.” But she was much perplexed by his words and pondered what sort of greeting this might be. The angel said to her, “Do not be afraid, Mary, for you have found favour with God. And now, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you will name him Jesus. He will be great, and will be called the Son of the Most High, and the Lord God will give to him the throne of his ancestor David. He will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.” Mary said to the angel, “How can this be, since I am a virgin?” The angel said to her, “The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you; therefore the child to be born will be holy; he will be called Son of God. And now, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son; and this is the sixth month for her who was said to be barren. For nothing will be impossible with God.” Then Mary said, “Here am I, the servant of the Lord; let it be with me according to your word.” Then the angel departed from her.

First Exercise, Lectio: What does the text tell me?

Read the Scripture passage slowly, at least twice.

If a word or phrase or idea seems important, take note of it.

Second Exercise, Meditatio: What do I say to God in light of the text?

Allow the important word, phrase or idea to enter your thoughts.

Be with the words, recognising that you are in God’s presence.

Allow the Holy Spirit to lead your awareness of the words.

Third Exercise, Oratio: Prayer

Let your heart speak to God.

Use the words of the Scripture passage or the thoughts that emerged during your reflection on them.

Fourth Exercise, Contemplatio: Contemplate in silence and quiet.

Let go of words or thoughts and allow yourself to rest in the presence of God