Let there be Light

CHIARA CENTER
Let there be Light
Programs and Services
July 2014-July 2015
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Our Mission
Chiara Center is a faith community
dedicated to the discovery and healing
presence of God within one’s self, everyday life,
relationships, and all of creation.
All programs, services, and hospitality are grounded
in the spirit and heritage of
St. Francis of Assisi and St. Clare of Assisi.
Our Logo
Our logo is set in a circular motif representing wholeness.
Light and dark reflect the rhythms of life opening one
to God’s compassion, healing, and peace.
The Tau Cross, an ancient Biblical symbol embraced by
St. Francis, invites one to gaze, consider, contemplate,
and enter the Mystery.
Our Staff
The exceptional staff at Chiara Center is ready to serve you.
Hospitality is our hallmark.
We are committed to the Hospital Sisters of St. Francis
and their values of respect, care, competence, and joy.
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Chiara (Clare), a woman of light set upon the hill of human
history in Assisi, Italy in the 1200s, was a radiant light and guide
leading the way for those seeking meaning in life.
Today, Chiara Center, which bears the name of St. Clare of
Assisi, is also a radiant light providing a place of healing and
peace for all people.
This year at Chiara Center, we celebrate the mystery and power
of God’s light which illumines dark places and hearts, and stirs
up peace, hope, joy, and justice.
Faith is not a light which scatters all our darkness,
but a lamp which guides our steps in
the night and suffices for the journey.
Pope Francis
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We believe in God
who takes our smallest moment of hope
and grows it forth like a tree
with spreading branches
for the sheltering of new life.
We believe in Jesus Christ
who walks tall among us,
seen in our faces, felt in our hearts,
bedded deep in the longing of our souls
for all that is true, just and full of hope.
We believe in the Holy Spirit
who waits on our moments of openness
and springs into the unknowns
with joy and delight,
that we might be called on
beyond where we thought we could go
where every step is walked on holy ground.
Dorothy McRae-McMahon
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Chiara Sponsored Opportunities
Ah Days of Quiet
Once each season we reserve a day for you to come to Chiara
Center and reflect on God’s goodness in your life. Arrive at 9 a.m.
and leave by 3 p.m. refreshed and filled with peace. The day
includes a delicious lunch. Massages are available and should be
requested at the time of registration.
July 28, 2014
January 12, 2015
October 6, 2014
March 23, 2015
If you are unable to attend on these dates, you may arrange your
own day of quiet. Give us a call.
Chiara Retreats
A retreat is God’s invitation to step out of the hectic pace and enter
the haven of your deeper spirit. It’s a time for deliberate attention
to your spiritual journey and to be with God who loves you and
calls you. There are several retreat options at Chiara Center
including:
Directed Retreat
This retreat includes solitude, prayer, and a one-on-one daily
session with a Chiara Center spiritual director. You will be wrapped
in the quiet, healing, and harmony of God’s presence at Chiara
Center. You may choose to make it a three, four, or five day
retreat. Pre-registration required.
October 19-24, 2014
June 14-19, 2015
Conference Retreat
These themed retreats are scheduled for five days and are led by
spiritual masters who provide daily discussions.
Everyday Epiphanies: Seeking the Holy in Every Nook and
Cranny
Explore the ways God surprises us in everyday life.
Retreat Director: Sister Melannie Svoboda, SND
July 13-18, 2014
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Sacred Darkness: Finding harmony with the rainbow and
stars amidst the challenges of life.
It is often darkness that sheds light on our world and helps us live
more effectively and more fully. How is it that darkness empowers
us?
Paul Coutinho, well-known author of How Big Is Your God,
teaches at St. Louis University and gives retreats and workshops
throughout the United States. The retreat will include a full
weekend with the option of taking additional days. Pre-registration
required.
Retreat Director: Paul Coutinho
July 17-19, 2015 (July 20-23 optional additional days)
Visit chiaracenter.org for registration forms
for these retreats.
Chiara Guided Retreats
We have created two retreat experiences which can be self-led
using our resources. The retreats can be used individually or in
small groups.
The first retreat, “Catching Fire Becoming Flame: A Guide for
Spiritual Transformation,” is based on the work of Father Albert
Haase, OFM. The retreat experience includes a small how-to
retreat booklet, a book and DVD series.
The second retreat, “Sacred Rhythms: Spiritual Practices that
Nourish Your Soul and Transform Your Life,” is based on the
work of Ruth Haley Barton. The retreat experience includes a
small how-to retreat booklet, a book and DVD series.
In the attitude of silence, the soul
finds the path in a clearer light.
Gandhi
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Private Personal Retreats
Individuals, couples, and small groups are welcome to schedule
retreat time at Chiara Center. We provide the atmosphere,
sacred spaces, quiet, meals, and overnight guest rooms. Simply
give us a call and we will assist you in planning your retreat
experience.
Spiritual directors are available and a request must be made at
least one month in advance.
Spiritual Director Training Program
Chiara Center offers a two-year training program for individuals
who sense a call to spiritual guidance ministry. Led by
Father Albert Haase, OFM, and Jessie Vicha, the program
provides the knowledge and skills
needed to become a spiritual director.
The program, which is limited to 15
participants, is a well recognized
program by many Christian
denominations throughout Illinois.
Through quarterly weekend spiritual
direction sessions, lectures, and
discussions, participants gain an
understanding of the complex nature
of spiritual direction.
The Program, which is open to men
and women of all Christian traditions,
involves a program fee.
“Spiritual direction is the contemplative practice of helping another person or
group to awaken to the mystery called God in all of life, and to respond to that
discovery in a growing relationship of freedom and commitment.”
James Keegan, SJ
For more information visit chiaracenter.org, or
call Sister Renita at 217-523-0901.
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“Lighten Up” Thursday Dinner Series (6 p.m.)
Life can be tough and sometimes we need to select the pause
button and remember who really is the Light of the World. The
evening begins with dinner at 6 p.m.followed by a presentation.
“I do not ask to see the distant scene—one step enough for me….
Lead thou me on!” John Henry Newman
Phone registration is required.
$20 per person, $35 per couple
Andiamo! Walk to Assisi
September 25, 2014
Cathy Roszhart, FSO
Benvenuto (welcome) to a Franciscan
Wellness Challenge. Inspired by St. Francis’
“Canticle of the Creatures,” let’s set off on a
personal journey to wellness. Let’s make it a
fun journey by sharing the challenge with
family, friends, and co-workers. Let’s make it
an inspiring journey as we discover
St. Francis’ way to live in harmony with
everything and everyone around him. Let’s
walk lightly and into the light. Andiamo (Let’s
go!) on our walk to Assisi, Italy.
The Light Isn’t Just at the End of the Tunnel
November 6, 2014
Father Bob Jallas, St. Agnes Parish, Springfield, IL
JK Jones, Eastview Church, Normal, IL
Bishop John Roth, Evangelical Church in America
It is not easy task to walk in the light. Much in life seems at odds.
The very rhythm within us is often restless, fearful, aching,
overcharged, overworked and filled with anxiety.
“Who teaches the soul, if not God?” St. John of the Cross
Join three spiritual leaders as they explore their journey and
share how to lighten up and live in the light.
Each of us comes to the light because of love, and each of us is
called to love in order to remain in the light.
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Pope Francis
A New Spotlight on the Ordinary: Finding purpose, passion and
meaning a mile from your house
January 29, 2015 “Darkness and many dawns in
the first half of life”
March 5, 2015
“Really big choices in the second half of life”
Ed Wojcicki
The self-help industry has thousands of books to help you pursue
your purpose and follow your dreams. Many are helpful, but some
inadvertently cause you to chase a lie—the lie that makes you feel
that you are not good enough, not successful enough, not smart
enough, or not wealthy enough. The truth is
that many people privately wonder if they’re
Sometimes I
doing something wrong because they don’t
need only to
have time or energy to search somewhere
over the rainbow. They’re too busy taking
stand
care of kids and going to work and worrying
about bills and meanwhile, the dishes get
wherever I am
dirty every day. Our culture praises
to be blessed.
achievements and fame and being busy all
the time. By shedding a different kind of
Mary Oliver
spotlight on the ordinary with the aid of his
photography, Ed is working on a book that
finds an abundance of opportunities a mile from his house—almost
literally—to have a deeply meaningful and wonderful life. He’ll
explain that you can experience the same in these two entertaining
and countercultural presentations.
These two sessions have similar themes, but each is independent of
the other. So attend one or both.
Spirituality in Healthcare Conference
This annual conference co-sponsored by Chiara Center and Hospital
Sisters Health System addresses where God may be found in
healthcare, how to be faithful in the midst of suffering and
tremendous change, and how to find transcendent meaning in the
healthcare profession.
Continuing nurse education contact hours are awarded.
The specific topic, presenter, and date will be announced when
details are complete. Watch for news about this most important
conference in Spring 2015.
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Recovery Programs
Weekend Retreat: “You Already Have It”
What keeps you from being grateful for and enjoying the gift of
recovery? Join others in celebrating what you already have and
learn how to live in the fullness of life’s gifts. The retreat is open to
those involved in a recovery program or are a family member
searching for guidance.
February 20-22, 2015
Retreat Leaders: Archie Ford, Chuck Kerwin, and
David Kerwin
Registration information found at chiaracenter.org.
Retreat Days/Evenings
Throughout the year, there are retreat evenings and day
gatherings for persons tending their recovery. For specific dates,
see the Recovery brochure in our brochure rack or visit
chiaracenter.org.
Nativity Festival
Join us for our 8th Annual Nativity Festival.
Experience the deeper meaning of the
Incarnation through a display of more than
100 Nativity sets from around the world.
Loaned to us by friends, each set has a
story which speaks of the presence of God
in the midst of people’s lives.
Free and open to the public, the Festival
includes a tour of St. Francis of Assisi
Church.
Friday, December 5, 2014
2-7 p.m.
Saturday, December 6, 2014 noon-4 p.m.
Sunday, December 7, 2014 noon-4 p.m.
The one place that is
sure proof of the seed of
God in every bleak field of
life
is in Bethlehem
at the Nativity of Jesus.
Joan Chittister
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Hosting your event
Looking for an inspiring place to have a special gathering,
a retreat, a conference, a seminar, or a workshop?
Consider Chiara Center.
We provide meeting rooms of various sizes, comfortable overnight
accommodations, wireless access, AV support, and healthy food
options. All this in a peaceful setting with incredible views and
walking paths.
We are centrally located and easy to find.
Our prices are modest.
Give us a call to discuss your event and learn about our fees. We will
provide you with an event Agreement and then reserve your dates.
Every year more organizations and groups in the Midwest are
discovering that Chiara Center is “the best kept secret in Springfield.”
You can make this discovery, too.
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Light Features at Chiara Center
Spiritual Direction
Spiritual direction is the prayerful practice of helping another person
or group to awaken to the mystery called God in all of life and to
respond to that discovery in a growing relationship of freedom and
commitment. Chiara Center has persons trained in the art of
spiritual direction. If you are seeking a spiritual guide, call us.
Labyrinth
Walking a labyrinth is a spiritual practice
embraced by those seeking to deepen their
faith in the Divine. The labyrinth, which
symbolizes a path to God and is one of the
oldest known contemplative spiritual
practices, is a new feature at Chiara Center.
Massage
Through massage therapy, healing hands relax, restore, and renew
the body, mind, and spirit. Massage therapy improves circulation
and flexibility, relieves stress, and often reduces pain. It frees the
spirit to experience the goodness of God. Ursuline Sister Nancy is
available to provide massages to Chiara guests. Massages are
arranged by contacting Sister Nancy at 217-891-5724.
Way of the Cross
The Way of the Cross is an ancient form of
Christian devotion. Here on this property,
there are two places to walk in Jesus’
footsteps carrying the cross: in St. Francis
of Assisi Church and on the walking trails.
A booklet of prayer is available to guide
guests through this journey of the heart.
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Gift Display
Chiara Center has a display of
distinctive Franciscan items for
Chiara guests to purchase as a
means of continuing the Chiara
experience.
Healing stones, sacred oils,
pottery tea lights, and bowls,
along with Franciscan reflection
booklets and crosses, are
among the unique Chiara items.
Walking Paths
Chiara Center provides a wonderful
“Guide to Outdoor Sacred Places”
as a way to enjoy walking the many
paths on these holy, historical
grounds. Creation speaks so
clearly of healing and God’s
bountiful goodness. Franciscans
believe that creation was the first
book which God wrote.
Tours
Chiara Center welcomes tours
of small groups, organizations,
and institutions. Tours include a
history of the Hospital Sisters of
St. Francis and their property,
St. Francis of Assisi Church,
and the Heritage Museum. A
meal and overnight stays are
also an option. Bus tours are
welcome.
Tours may be arranged by calling us at 217-523-0901.
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Sharing the Light of Chiara
Through Social Media
Chiara Newsletter
You can experience a touch of Chiara Center each month when
you sign up to receive our e-newsletter, Chiara Light. On the 11th
of each month, Chiara Light will be emailed filled with inspirational
thoughts and happenings at Chiara Center. You will be part of the
Chiara faith community who have experienced Franciscan peace
and prayer on these sacred grounds.
Facebook
While Clare of Assisi was named patroness of television, we
believe that today she would find Facebook an effective way to
share God’s light and goodness. Be friends with us on Facebook
and you’ll see our postings of photos, inspirational thoughts, and
also be informed about some of the groups who have blest Chiara
Center with their presence.
Website
Our website reflects the sacred spirit of Chiara Center. It provides
further information about our history, the Hospital Sisters of
St. Francis, our sponsored events, registration forms, and our
distinguishing spiritual amenities. It also provides a photo tour
through St. Francis of Assisi Church and our scenic grounds.
Prayer Requests
Let us know of prayer requests so
that the faith community of Chiara
Center and the Hospital Sisters of
St. Francis can hold your intentions
in their prayers. Quarterly, we have
a special prayer service for all the
requests.
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Darkness
is passing away
and the true light
is already shining.
Gospel of John
Blessing of St. Francis
Blessing of St. Clare
The Lord bless you and keep you;
May the Lord be with you
May God’s face shine upon you.
everywhere.
May the Lord give you peace.
And may you be with Him.
Contact Us
Chiara Center
4875 LaVerna Road
Springfield, Illinois 62707
217-523-0901
chiaracenter.org
E-mail: [email protected]
Administrator: Peter Garvey
Program Director: Sister Renita Brummer, OSF
Executive Secretary: Melissa Renfro
Administrative Secretary: Sheryl Mulhall
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All photos: Chiara Center
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