Receive an Image

Receive an Image

April 13 – May 4

Monday Evenings

6:30 – 7:45 pm ET

via Zoom

with Heather Hall

Visio divina (sacred seeing) is the practice of viewing the world with the eyes of our heart. Like the ancient practice of lectio divina (sacred hearing), which listens to a text with the ears of our heart, this modern adaptation – using a simple camera to attune our perception – helps us deepen our connection to the Divine.

In her classic book – Eyes of the Heart: Photography as a Christian Contemplative Practice – Christine Valters Paintner reframes the traditional language of photography. Rather than “taking” or “shooting” photos, we will practice “receiving” images as gifts. To “take” a photo is a strategic act of analysis; whereas, to “receive” a photo with the heart is an encounter with the sacred.

Through this program, you are encouraged to bring a camera on a walk so you can be fully present to receive an image. As you release expectation and judgment – from both within and beyond yourself – you’ll learn to watch for what shimmers and stirs within. Attune yourself with a new perspective and discover the invitation. Then explore the unique messages you receive.

Please note that this is not a “photography class.” Neither experience nor creativity are needed. No fancy camera needed, either. In fact, your cell phone is more than adequate for our purposes. And you need journey no further than your yard, though we anticipate spring flowers may bring draw you out a little further. 😉

Your leader for this journey is Heather Hall, who makes a habit of journeying with her camera and Divine wisdom.

Though not required, it’s recommended that you get a copy of Christine Valters Painter’s Eyes of the Heart: Photography as a Christian Contemplative Practice. You can purchase it at your favorite bookseller or through The Retreat House’s Bookshop at: Eyes of the Heart 

REGISTER HERE:

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Payment instructions:

Please do no let finances get in the way of gathering with us! We welcome you to pay as you will. Also, if you would like to donate an additional amount to support others, we are so grateful. 

We prefer ONLINE payments: please visit this link just below, make a one-time donation, and write “Receive An Image” in the notes box.

CUT AND PASTE INTO YOUR BROWSER:

https://midshore.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=3409

If CHECKS are your preferred payment, please mark the memo line with ‘Receive and Image’ and mail them to:

The Retreat House

P.O. Box

Chestertown, MD   21620