“From time to time, one must recreate and relax in mind and body.”
-St. Francis de Sales
This summer I followed this wise and holy man’s advice and went “down the shore” – as we Philadelphians say – to vacation in Cape May, New Jersey.
As my husband was loading the car with the three kids, the dog, and tons of “stuff,” I wondered if this is the recipe for relaxation that St. Francis recommended.
I think it is.
The Oblates at my home parish – Our Mother of Consolation in Philadelphia – and my “vacation parish” –Our Lady Star of the Sea in Cape May – remind me that holiness is not found apart from my vocation as wife and mother. Rather, Salesian Spirituality recognizes that the quest for holiness is integrated into the quotidian of life. Even “down the shore.”
I am drawn “down the shore” –especially this year –as I emerge from my COVID cave. I find the surf, sand, and sun salvific. I see God everywhere in the Cape May landscape, even in ordinary, non-religious nautical structures like the Cape May Lighthouse. While not an overtly Catholic symbol, the lighthouse reminds me that Christ is “Light of the World” (John 8:12) – the beacon of hope as I navigate these post-pandemic waters.
The natural beauty of Cape May is alluring. I crave comfort in the cathedral of Creation. I recognize that this time at the shore is more than just fun in the sun; it is sacred time. It is sacred space. The stunning sunset over the Delaware Bay reminds me of the awesomeness and generosity of our Creator, who offers me the opportunity for grace.
Is our Creator inviting me to conversation through Creation? How am I to respond?
I begin by listening. As St. Jane Frances de Chantal suggests, “in prayer, more is accomplished by listening than by talking.” Therefore, I must embrace a posture of openness.
Perhaps our wise and holy friend St. Francis recognized that once we relax our minds and bodies then our souls are more disposed to the promptings of the Spirit. If so, then I must have more than flip flops in Cape May. I must have an open heart and a submissive soul to not only listen, but to hear and heed God’s will.
What will you bring?
Maureen Furletti
Graduate Student, Institute for Ministry
Loyola University New Orleans
