Evensong: September 14 - 20

The Abbey of the Genesee is one of the first monasteries I visited as a young man in Western New York. I can still recall the smell of incense, the coolness of the stone building, and the chanting of prayers.

For as long as humans have walked the earth, we've lived in harmony with nature. Our lives flowed in sync with the cycles of the sun and the moon, the seasons and the tides. It is only recently in history, we traded in our close relationship with creation for technology and comfort. This week, I suggest there is something innately human about structuring our day around the rising and the setting of the sun, working during the day and resting at night. I'll continue the theme of honoring the hours of the day.

Two weeks ago, I proposed beginning each morning by recognizing the gift of light and life bestowed upon us at dawn, setting an intention to do good as we step into our daily activities. It seems fitting to do the same thing at the other end of the day as we transition from work to rest. As the sun sets and disappears into the evening, may we seek blessing for the work of our hands, forgiveness for our shortcomings, ease for our weary bodies and minds, and strength in the company of loved ones.

Liturgically, this hour of the day is known as vespers or evensong. In theory, I love the idea of pausing and settling, collecting the scattered pieces of myself that I've dropped throughout the day, listening beyond the many voices that echo in my head to the subtle song vibrating in my soul. In practice when I meditate most days on my back deck, surrounded by the sound of birds and the evening breezes, I often doze off. A moment of peace is always welcomed whether I am aware or not.

Practice

Create a sanctuary at home. Dedicate a place for the holy. Set up an altar with candles and flowers. Arrange pictures of loved ones and other special objects. Visit throughout the day but especially in the evening. Sit in silence or pour out the cares and hopes of your heart in words. Make a habit of returning each day.

John Philip Newell is one of my favorite spiritual authors. Feel free to borrow his words.

Holy One beyond all names

Eternal Wellspring

May love rise again in us today

With food for every table

Shelter for every family

And reverence for every life.

Forgive us our failings in love

And free us from all falseness

That the light of our souls may shine

And the strength of our spirits endure

For Earth and all its people

This day, tonight, and forever.

Amen