I’ve never been interested in “normal’. And to me, the thought of a “new normal” is dispiriting and regressive. However, I find St. Benedict’s idea of “starting over” inspiring, humbling and inviting.

To mark the onset of a global pandemic two years later, with a heart-centered devotion to begin again, that calls to me. To honor the memory of George Floyd’s death, two years later, by beginning again the work of racial healing, that calls to me. And now, to face the outbreak of even more war, by beginning again the pursuit of peace – that calls to me.

This session offers a cinematic communal meditation on this opportune moment to begin again a life of contemplation and just action. I’ll guide participants through a contemplative screening process with my latest Cinema Divina film, Begin Again, made for this session. Participants will be invited into reverent silences, writing, sharing and spacious listening.

All are welcome — beginners and long-time contemplative practitioners.

– by M Freeman