Our journey along the River Dart and through the Christian ‘seasons of the spirit’ continued on Sunday 4th January 2015 with a celebration of Epiphany. As before, Beth and I started our sabbath in traditional Church with the Dartington congregation and once again we were warmly welcomed, and lay reader, Liz, included some reflective prayer time into the service with us in mind. The service reminded us of the journey of the Magi who followed a star to bring gifts and wider affirmation of the Christ child and got us thinking about our own capacity for wonder, the gifts we have to share and the affirmation and companions we meet on our journeys. We took Liz’s prayer suggestions below to add to our ‘bring and share’ lunch in the village hall and as a theme for our silent walk and beyond:
Name and give thanks for a moment of wonder
Resolve to give your gift this year in a particular way
Name some aspect of darkness and pray for light
Name a companion on the journey and give thanks for their support
After lunch we sat in quiet meditation and then walked out silently, through Dartington woods and along the river towards Staverton, where we gathered under the ancient yew in the churchyard to create a natural altar and share our moments of wonder. Experiences shared included coming close to some beautiful birds. Like a guardian of a threshold, the early part of our walk was watched over by a buzzard… along the river bank some of us came down to water level to meet sleeping ducks resting along the bank and as we approached the churchyard, a heron flew slowly along the valley, showing us the way.
Under the yew we were delighted to welcome our first ‘pop up poet’ as Ash gave us a spirited and lyrical glimpse into the mysteries of the tribes of Israel. To hear him read a selection of his poetry, click here to visit his website. After a visit to the quiet beauty of Staverton Church, still resplendent with its huge Christmas tree and decorations, and blessed with a lovely Lady Chapel, we enjoyed the communion of a friendly pint in the Sea Trout Inn, before walking and talking our way back home through the dusk.