Solar Array

The Solar Array—Turning Toward the Light
As we move through this meditation there will be moments of pause to give time for personal reflection.  Allow the times of silence to be your teacher.  We will begin the meditation with a chime and end it with a chime.

[chime]

Welcome to this place of quiet reflection.
As you stand among these solar panels, take a slow, deep breath.
Feel the warmth of the sun upon your face...
the breeze moving gently around you...
and the earth supporting your feet.

(Pause 10 seconds.)

Lift your eyes toward the sky.
For billions of years, the sun has faithfully offered its light, asking nothing in return. Its energy warms the earth, awakens seeds, nourishes forests and prairies, and makes all life possible.
The same sunlight that touches these solar panels also touches you.
Receive its warmth as a gift.

(Pause 20 seconds.)

The Sisters of St. Agnes believe that the Earth is not simply a resource to be used, but a sacred gift to be part of.
These 880 solar panels are more than a source of energy. They are a visible expression of a promise—to care for the Earth entrusted to us, to honor future generations, and to live with gratitude, reverence, and hope.

(Pause 30 seconds.)

Notice how the sunlight falls equally upon everything—
the grasses,
the trees,
the flowers,
the birds,
and each person standing here.
The sun makes no distinction.
Its generous light invites us to become people who share kindness, compassion, and hope with others.

(Pause 20 seconds.)

Perhaps caring for creation begins with simple choices:
Choosing gratitude over excess.
Wonder over convenience.
Taking only what we need.
Living gently upon the Earth.
These small acts, repeated day after day, become a way of honoring our common home.

(Pause 30 seconds.)

As you look around, notice the harmony between human creativity and the natural world.
The energy of the sun is gathered here, working with creation rather than against it.
The Earth teaches us that true abundance is found in balance, respect, and relationship.
Take a quiet moment to ask yourself:
How is life inviting me to care more deeply for our common home?
What one small change can I make that will bless future generations?

(Pause 40 seconds.)

As our time here comes to a close, receive one final gift from the sun.
Feel its warmth once more.
May it remind you that light is always meant to be shared.
May your life reflect gratitude for the gifts you have received.

May your choices bring healing to our common home.
Continue to walk gently upon the Earth, honoring the sacred web of life that connects us all.
And may you leave this place committed to being a source of light, bringing hope, compassion, and care to our beautiful world.
Remain here for one final breath...
and offer your silent thanks for this day,
for this land,
and for the gift of creation.

[chime]

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Centering Prayer

Centering Prayer is a form of Christian meditation that emphasizes silence, stillness, and letting go of thoughts to deepen one's relationship with God. It is rooted in ancient contemplative practices.

Practice

1. Choose a Sacred Word
Pick a short, simple word that expresses your desire to be with God. Examples: Love, Peace, Jesus, or Stillness.                         
This word is not repeated constantly, but used gently to return to your intention when you're distracted.

2. Set a Timer
Start with 10–20 minutes. You can use a gentle chime or bell sound at the end.

3. Sit Comfortably and Close Your Eyes
Sit in a relaxed but alert posture. Close your eyes to eliminate distractions. Gently introduce your sacred word to anchor your intention.

4. Be Still and Let Go
As thoughts, feelings, or distractions arise (and they will), don’t engage with them.
Simply return—gently and without judgment to your sacred word.
This isn't about fighting thoughts—just letting them pass like clouds.

5. Rest in God’s Presence
The goal is not to feel a certain way or reach a certain state.
It’s about resting in silent trust and being with God beyond words or thoughts.