Feed your soul. Nourish your spirit. Tau Center Spirituality Programs & Retreats • Spring/Summer 2018
a spirituality ministry of the Wheaton Franciscans
TAU CENTER STAFF Director, Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF Program Specialist, Sharon Kroon Devo Marketing Specialist, Nancy Morris Stay up-to-date on new program additions or changes by signing up for our E-News online at
www.taucenter.org Take a private retreat day for yourself or a small group at Tau Center. See pages 22-23.
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Tau Center 26W171 Roosevelt Road Wheaton, Illinois 60187 630-909-6805
www.facebook.com/taucenter www.twitter.com/TauCenter
A note from Sr. Glenna... “Behold, I am making all things new...” - Isaiah 43:18 Every New Year we get the opportunity to make some time to take an inventory of our lives and envision ourselves anew. Many of us make resolutions to eat better, exercise more, get more sleep, clear out the garage, or purge the clothes closet. While making these lifestyle changes, don’t forget to include your spiritual life. Make a resolution to deepen your relationship with God, refresh your prayer life, commit to a meditation practice, discover your soul with creative spirituality, or whatever gives you spiritual enrichment and growth. Tau Center offers a variety of programs and a peaceful space to help individuals nourish their lives and find companions on their spiritual journey. So we invite you to enjoy time with us this coming season. It’s never too late...you don’t need to wait for a new year to take the first step towards renewal, revelation and wholeness. Be bold and courageous as you make yourself anew! Blessings of Peace, Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF Director of Tau Center
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SPECIAL FEATURED SPRING RETREAT Join special guest, Susan Lincoln, this spring at Tau Center for... An Evening of the Music of St. Hildegard of Bingen Thursday, April 12 • 7:00-8:30pm Facilitated by Susan Lincoln Enjoy this special evening with Susan Lincoln, a Hildegard vocalist from Austin, Texas, as she weaves together a wonder-filled celebration of the music of St. Hildegard of Bingen. All are invited to this unique evening that includes the beautiful solo voice of Susan as she sings Hildegard’s powerful music received from the Living Light. The night will include narrated stories and quotes from St. Hildegard that help bring the music to life, as well as an interactive opportunity for the audience to learn and sing together short musical phrases from Hildegard’s beautiful songs as they are woven into Susan’s solos. $25 • Pre-registration requested through April 12.
Singing in the Hildegarden: An All-Day Interactive Retreat for Women with Susan Lincoln, Inspired by St. Hildegard of Bingen Saturday, April 14 • 10:00am-8:00pm Facilitated by Susan Lincoln Throughout this magical one-day retreat for women with the amazing teachings and music of Hildegard of Bingen as inspiration, we will sing together and participate in creative practices designed to deepen connection in the timeless place of heart and spirit. Susan Lincoln, founder of Hilde Girls in Austin, Texas, has been committed to helping women heal and grow through the power of their voices for over 25 years. Come enrich your inner-life in a glorious day of Viriditas, Hildegard’s secret word for the greening power of love. (Lunch and dinner are included.)
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$135 • Registration requested by April 8.
"Music is the giving of gratitude to God." - St. Hildegard of Bingen
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January Program Schedule Jan 8
Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
JANUARY / FEBRUARY PROGRAMS Women’s Day of Renewal
Jan 11 Elements of Soul Collage (p. 19)
Saturday, January 20, 9:00am-3:00pm
Jan 15 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Facilitated by Sharon Devo and Christine Kroon
Jan 20 Women’s Day of Renewal (p. 6)
After the busy holiday, give yourself the gift of renewal. Experience a day to recharge, reflect and explore your inner-wisdom. Set an intention for the new year and explore what unfolds.
Jan 25 Drumming Circle (p. 20) Jan 29 Meditation...with Essential Oils (p. 7) Jan 30 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18)
February Program Schedule Feb 1
Gong Sound Meditation (p. 20)
Feb 1
Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Feb 5
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Feb 9
Taizé Prayer Service (p. 21)
Feb 12 Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
This day offers a gentle pace that weaves moments of solitude with times in community of other women. You will enjoy the Tau Center Art Studio for contemplative creativity using vision boards, mandalas, collage, and other forms of personal and spiritual expression along with witness journaling. You have the choice to work within a group or individually. To help quiet our minds throughout the day, restorative Yin Yoga sessions will be available in both the morning and afternoon to allow for relaxation and to reconnect with the breath of both our body and spirit. During the day, you can also enjoy other amenities including our outdoor Peace Path, Chapel, Meditation Room and other shared quiet spaces.
Feb 19 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Included in the registration fee is a box lunch, art supplies and yoga, as well as an option for a private quiet room (8 rooms available), if requested. Massage or healing touch sessions will be also be available for an additional fee on the day of the retreat.
Feb 20 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18)
$125 Early Registration through January 8. (After 1/8, registration is $145.)
Feb 17 Lent: A Journey of Self-Discovery (p. 8)
Feb 22 Contemplative Arts Open Studio (p. 19) Feb 22 Drumming Circle (p. 20)
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Meditation and Spiritual Partnership With Essential Oils Monday, January 29, 7:00-9:00pm Facilitated by Therese Yonikus As we breathe during meditation we connect our mind and body to the energy of the sky and heavens, and this energy becomes infused within the substance of our body with every inhalation. When we partner our breath with essential oils, we are infusing the spirit of the plant into our body as well. These essential oils or Botanical Aromas work directly on the limbic system, which controls moods, circadian rhythms, sleep and waking cycles and emotional memories. Botanical Aromas in the form of Essential Oils have a direct and intimate relationship with our spirit. Their helpful qualities are given through inhalation and move through the channels in our olfactory system and the brain to influence our consciousness. Essential Oils can calm and uplift us, release suppressed emotional memories, uplift our mind and heart, and enhance cognitive function. Partnering with Essential Oils during meditation, contemplation, and prayer offers a unique way of supporting, calming, stabilizing and uplifting our emotions. They support us in letting go of distractions so that we can connect with the Silence and Divine. $25 • Registration requested by January 22.
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March Program Schedule Mar 1
Sound of Bowls (p. 9)
Mar 1
Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Mar 2
When Retirement Comes: A Men’s Retreat (p. 10)
Mar 3
Mindfulness: It’s Not What You Think (p. 11)
Mar 5
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Mar 8
Lent: Slowing to the Pace of NOW (p. 12)
Mar 10 The Problem and Meaning of Suffering (p. 13)
FEBRUARY / MARCH PROGRAMS
Lent: A Journey of Self-Discovery Saturday, February 17, 9:30am-Noon
Mar 12 Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
Facilitated by Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF
Mar 19 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
In the midst of a chaotic and stressful world and busy lives full of details and demands, we often forget to pause, take a breath and contemplate the wonder and awe that is our “self”. The Holy Season of Lent is an apt time to take that pause, to contemplate our life journey: the choices we have made, the events and persons that have shaped our life, and the hopes and dreams we keep inside.
Mar 20 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18) Mar 22 Contemplative Arts Open Studio (p. 19) Mar 24 Lenten Day of Renewal (p. 13)
Register online at 8
www.taucenter.org
During this Lenten Morning of Reflection, we will engage in a quiet, contemplative process to take a deep yet gentle look at our life journey and to reconnect with the Spirit of God that accompanies us on each and every step. We will incorporate guided imagery, writing exercises, silence and music throughout the time together. $15 • Registration requested by February 9.
Sound of Bowls Thursday, March 1, 7:00-8:30pm Facilitated by Thomas Roberts Traditional historic singing bowls produce sounds that invoke deep states of relaxation; naturally assisting one in entering expanded states of consciousness and meditation. The sound of the bowls creates a deep level of communication with our inner world that opens us to the divine. The sounds and vibrations of Tibetan singing bowls open blockages to help us experience an inner calm and deep relaxation to invigorate our natural energy thus allowing our body-mind-spirit to quiet and find balance. Join us for an evening of captivating renewal in the presence of ageless bell sounds. You are invited to wear comfortable clothes, as you will be able to sit or lay on the floor as is comfortable. $25 • Pre-registration requested.
For our recurring sounding, meditation and prayer programs, see pages 20-21. 9
March Program Schedule Mar 1
Sound of Bowls (p. 9)
Mar 1
Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Mar 2
When Retirement Comes: A Men’s Retreat (p. 10)
Mar 3
Mindfulness: It’s Not What You Think (p. 11)
Mar 5
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Mar 8
Lent: Slowing to the Pace of NOW (p. 12)
Mar 10 The Problem and Meaning of Suffering (p. 13) Mar 12 Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21) Mar 19 Mindful Meditation (p. 21) Mar 20 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18) Mar 22 Contemplative Arts Open Studio (p. 19) Mar 24 Lenten Day of Renewal (p. 13)
Register online at 10
www.taucenter.org
MARCH PROGRAMS
When Retirement Comes: A Men’s Retreat on Moving from Quantity to QUALITY
Friday, March 2 • 9:30am-4:00pm Facilitated by Thomas Roberts, LCSW, LMFT Sometimes what frightens us the most about retirement is its misconception that it implies a withdrawing or retreat, as from worldly matters or the company of others. We might initially think we’ll be out of contact, out of the flow, relegated to the sidelines, or become irrelevant as the rest of the world continues with their purposeful endeavors. Nonsense! Retirement is no time to pack it in. Rather, this is an important time to shift our priorities and energies from a life of quantity and doing (accumulating education, careers, family, jobs, money, things, etc.) to a life of quality and being (depth, meaning, wisdom, celebration, etc.). This last significant developmental stage in our lives requires that we navigate it with the wisdom we have reaped throughout our life experiences. In this retreat, we will explore some of the reservations regarding retirement and begin to re-write a new script, a new storyline that honors this unique opportunity in our lives. We have worked hard to get here, and now it’s our turn to enjoy this change. Let’s do this together! (Lunch included.) $95 Early Registration through February 13. (After 2/13, registration is $125.)
Mindfulness: It’s Not What You Think An introduction to practice
Saturday, March 3 • 9:30am-3:30pm Facilitated by Thomas Roberts, LCSW, LMFT Beginning the path of mindful meditation is an ideal opportunity to live our lives with great patience, openness, and compassion. The practice of mindfulness is a way of being more aware and alert to the flow of life – feeling more grounded in a quiet mind and open heart. The more we ‘wake up’, the more we live life from a deep place of innate wisdom. This awakening reduces our fear-based reactions and cultivates our natural ability to respond to life situations, others and ourselves with greater patience and understanding. This retreat will be a very dynamic and practical experience where we can peel back the layers of self-deception to see things more clearly, as they truly are. Drawing from various insightful and contemplative traditions, we will learn the essential qualities of taking our meditation practice far beyond the cushion or chair, thus allowing us to remain fearless amidst the day-to-day flow of our lives. We will invite our hearts and minds to expand and radiate with compassion and intelligence. The simple yet profound practice of mindful meditation, whether in a grocery line or talking with another, keeps you in an open and balanced place that makes our surrounding world better. (Lunch is included.) $95 Early Registration through February 13. (After 2/13, registration is $125.)
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March Program Schedule Mar 1
Sound of Bowls (p. 9)
Mar 1
Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Mar 2
When Retirement Comes: A Men’s Retreat (p. 10)
Mar 3
Mindfulness: It’s Not What You Think (p. 11)
Mar 5
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Mar 8
Lent: Slowing to the Pace of NOW (p. 12)
MARCH PROGRAMS
Mar 10 The Problem and Meaning of Suffering (p. 13) Mar 12 Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
Lent: Slowing to the Pace of NOW
Mar 19 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Thursday, March 8, 10:00am-12:00pm or 7:00-9:00pm
Mar 20 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18)
Facilitated by Sr. Georgene L. Wilson, OSF, D.Min.
Mar 22 Contemplative Arts Open Studio (p. 19)
Ralph Waldo Emerson said, “Nature’s secret is patience.” He and other poets and prophets invite us to live slowly – to breathe in and out with consciousness and intention. During Lenten season, this session will help facilitate some reflections and spiritual practices on gentling our pace to that of nature. Each session will provide meditation time to ponder being present to the wisdom of the spiritual season and end with communal sharing and blessings. So, gift yourself a morning or evening session as you move into Lent with intention.
Mar 24 Lenten Day of Renewal (p. 13)
Register online at 12
www.taucenter.org
$15 • Registration requested by March 5.
The Problem and Meaning of Suffering: Perspectives from the World’s Religions
Saturday, March 10, 9:00am-12:30pm Facilitated by Matt Pozen All human beings at some point in their lives must come to grips with the problem and meaning of suffering. Thankfully, we are not left on our own in this search for meaning. The great religions of the world (Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, and others) have developed a variety of ways to approach this dilemma. In this half-day program, we will consider the various religious responses to the problem of suffering, and take time to reflect on and apply these responses to our own life experiences. $25 Early Registration through March 2. (After 3/2, registration is $30.)
Lenten Day of Renewal Saturday, March 24, 9:00am-3:00pm Facilitated by Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF, and Sharon Devo As we enter the sacred time of Holy Week, Tau Center invites you to a peaceful retreat day: a time to pause, take a breath and contemplate your life journey and the presence of God. The day will begin and end with shared group prayer and gentle guidance as we prepare for the day, which will be yours to enjoy in quiet and private contemplation. Possible spiritual activities include private meditation or prayer in the chapel, scripture reflection, creative exploration in the studio or outdoor walking meditation on our Peace Path. Spiritual direction sessions are available, if desired. (Private retreat room and lunch are included.) $95 Early Registration through March 9. (After 3/9, registration is $125.)
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April Program Schedule
APRIL PROGRAMS Perfect Joy: Living the Wisdom of Francis of Assisi
Apr 2
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Apr 5
Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Apr 6
Taizé Prayer Service (p. 21)
Thursday, April 19, 7:00-9:00pm
Apr 9
Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
Facilitated by Sr. Georgene L. Wilson, OSF, D.Min.
Apr 12 An Evening of Music of St. Hildegard of Bingen (p. 4) Apr 14 Singing in the Hildegarden: An Interative Rereat for Women (p. 4) Apr 16 Mindful Meditation (p. 21) Apr 17 Creative Expressions for Your Soul (p. 18) Apr 19 Perfect Joy: Living the Wisdom of Francis of Assisi (p. 14) Apr 23 Spring Renewal with Essential Oils (p. 15) Apr 26 Contemplative Arts Open Studio (p. 19) Apr 26 Drumming Circle (p. 20) Apr 28 You Are Not Alone (p. 15)
Saint Francis invited his followers to live in the present moment. He proposed that if we are awake to each now, we will be filled with joy, despite the circumstances. This spiritual wisdom is echoed in “The Book of Joy”, a dialogue with the Dalai Lama and Bishop Desmond Tutu. In this session we will ponder how, even in awful and painful experiences of life, if we are awake in the Now, our presence will issue an abundance of awe. Come and ponder St. Francis’ perfect joy and discover its connective wisdom with that of two joyful contemporary spiritual wise men. $15 • Registration requested by April 16.
Register online at 14
www.taucenter.org
Spring Renewal With Essential Oils Monday, April 23, 7:00-9:00pm Facilitated by Therese Yonikus Spring is a time of lightness after a long winter. The essences of flowers, herbs, and trees can help us transition from the heaviness of winter into the emerging lightness of color, scents and awakening. The essential oils of certain plants can fill our spirits with freshness and renewal as we enter Earth’s beauty in her spring wardrobe. Enjoy this time of season as essential oils become nature’s love in a bottle. $25 • Registration requested by April 16.
You Are Not Alone Saturday, April 28 • 9:30am-12:00pm Facilitated by Dessi Bushi Do you want to pray but words escape you? Does listening to God feel like an impossible task? If you find it difficult to stay focused in the stillness of prayer, contemplative art practices offer an active approach to deep listening and discovery. Enjoy this morning of reflection where you will have the opportunity to explore your spirituality through the creation of a prayer shawl using fabric markers. We will use guided prayer and meditation as we move through the morning together, helping to set intentions and final blessings as we continue throughout the creation of the shawl. (Includes materials.) $35 • Registration required by April 19.
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May Program Schedule
MAY, JUNE & JULY PROGRAMS
May 3 Elements of SoulCollage (p. 19)
Outdoor Drumming Circle & Fire Ceremony
May 3 Gong Sound Meditation (p. 20)
Thursday, May 24, 7:00-9:00pm
May 7 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Facilitated by Therese Yonikus
May 14 Explorations in Centering Prayer (p. 21)
Join us for our seasonal outdoor drumming circle (weather permitting) and fire ceremony.
May 21 Mindful Meditation (p. 21) May 24 Outdoor Drumming Circle (p. 16)
June Program Schedule Jun 1
Taizé Prayer Service (p. 21)
Jun 4
Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
Jun 18 Mindful Meditation (p. 21)
July Program Schedule Jul 21 Grounding Energies: Renewing Yourself Through Nature (p. 17)
Register online at 16
www.taucenter.org
Drumming is a time-honored method of healing by helping to release tension, dispel stress and negative feelings, and restore energy. While the drum has the ability to put us in touch with our own natural rhythms, the circle helps draw our individual energies together, unifying them into a consolidated force. Its beat represents our heart as we become grounded yet taken to a place deep inside where we are keenly aware of our mind and body and the connection between the two. A drumming circle is very inclusive in that all people can participate as we become connected through an invisible energy while united in purpose and community. Fire is the element of quick transformation and fire ceremonies have historically been performed for releasing, cleansing, and balancing. Through a fire ceremony, we reconnect our oneness with the Divine Universe, and energy bound in old ways can be freed to move in a new direction. During this special drumming circle, we will bring an offering to the fire in the form of a natural object – a stick – where we blow our intention into the stick for whatever is wanting to be released or healed. With the fire, we release what no longer serves as useful and reclaim the energy of that old behavior pattern for a new purpose. Please dress appropriately for the weather and bring a chair or blanket. No experience necessary. Limited number of drums available. Free-will offering • Pre-registration required.
Grounding Energies: Renewing Yourself Through Nature Saturday, July 21, 9:00am-3:00pm Facilitated by Sharon Devo and Christine Kroon Open yourself to a lived, loving connection with the Divine and nature during this special contemplative retreat where you can recharge, reflect and explore your inner-wisdom as it relates to the natural world around us. We will spend part of the day outside for a walking meditation where we will begin to renew our connection to Mother Earth and her beautiful life offerings. As we walk along the Peace Path, we will gather natural materials to use in creating a personal ‘nature loom’, a living symbol of our intention to weave together the fabric of life and community. You will personalize your loom with your own spiritual symbols in the form of trinkets, yarn, etc., that you will bring with you to the retreat. This day offers a gentle pace that weaves moments of solitude with times in community of others, both outdoors and indoors. To help quiet our minds throughout the day, restorative Yin Yoga sessions will be held outdoors in both the morning and afternoon to allow for relaxation and to reconnect with the breath of both our body and spirit. During the day, you can also enjoy other amenities including our Chapel, Meditation Room and other shared quiet spaces. Massage or healing touch sessions will be also be available for an additional fee on the day of the retreat. Included in the registration fee is a box lunch, loom frame, art supplies and yoga, as well as an option for a private quiet room (8 rooms available), if requested. $125 Early Registration by July 6. (After 7/6, registration is $145.)
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CONTEMPLATIVE ARTS PROGRAMS Creative Expressions for Your Soul Facilitated by Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF, and Sr. Georgene L. Wilson, OSF
Tuesdays, 7:00-9:00pm | Jan 30 • Feb 20 • Mar 20 • Apr 17 God has given each of us a creative spirit deep within ourselves to be discovered and explored. This series offers you a place to deepen your relationship with God and your own inner-wisdom through contemplative and creative practices. We begin each session by realizing the joy and peace that lies within our soul to bring our spiritual insights into tangible art. You do not need any previous art experience, but rather an open heart to what you may discover within yourself using words, lines or color. We invite you to enjoy one or all of the following sessions: • January 30, Poetry Explore the symbolic language of the heart and energy that invites us to be whole. • February 20, Zentangle Focus on the “Zen” part of this art form as a way to tap into your intuitive nature and use it as a personal ritual to quiet your mind and explore your inner-self. • March 20, Storytelling Our adult heart goes back to the child as we use children’s fables as inspiration to tell our own story.
Register online at
www.taucenter.org 18
• April 17, Spiritual Freewriting Enjoy this prayerful and spiritual practice that allows you to set aside the time for soul-searching at a deep, meaningful level. $25/session; or $80 for the series (Registration required by January 23.)
Elements of SoulCollage: A practice of self-discovery
Thursdays, 1:00-3:30pm Jan 11 • Feb 1 • Mar 1 • Apr 5 • May 3 Facilitated by Sharon Devo SoulCollage® is a powerful creative process that gently enables you to hear the deep wisdom of your own inner-knowing through the practice of collage art. This soul-tending practice honors one’s personal journey, while promoting personal growth and self-discovery. To deepen our understanding of and break open the meaning of the SoulCollage Deck, each session will begin with 30 minutes of instruction, followed by guided meditation and card-making. Our day will conclude with journaling and a brief sharing of our images, if desired. Session topics include: • Jan 11 – Basics; including Source Card • Feb 1 – The Committee Suit: The Psychological Dimension • Mar 1 – The Community Suit; The Communal Dimension • Apr 5 - The Companion Suit; The Energetic Dimension • May 3 – The Council Suit; The Archetypal Dimension $25/session; or $100 for the series (Materials included.) (Registration required by January 8.)
Contemplative Arts Open Studio Thursdays, 1:00-3:30pm | Feb 22 • Mar 22 • Apr 26 Facilitated by Sharon Devo Explore your spiritual creativity in a warm and nurturing environment during this open studio. Work individually surrounded by similar-minded individuals as you explore your inuitive nature through art using any area you feel drawn to, whether it be painting, collage, drawing, mandalas, mixed media, etc. There is no instruction provided during these sessions, but rather we create a safe place of silence and presence for ourselves and each other. We will utilize ‘open studio process’ which encourages the setting of an intention, art making, and witness journaling. Each session will begin with a guided meditation with time for two hours of creative work. Basic art supplies and journals are provided, but you are encouraged to bring anything from home as well. $20 Early Registration one week prior to class ($25/session registration less than seven days prior to class)
Private Group sessions for SoulCollage or Open Studio are available upon request. For more information or date availability, contact our Program Specialist, Sharon Devo at sdevo@wfsisters.org. 19
RECURRING PROGRAMS • SOUNDS, MEDITATIONS & PRAYERS Gong Sound Meditation
Drumming Circle
Thursdays, 7:00-9:00pm Feb 1 • May 3
Thursdays, 7:00-8:30pm Jan 25 • Feb 22 • Apr 26 • May 24
Facilitated by Marian and Gabriela Kraus
Facilitated by Therese Yonikus
The Gong has been used for ritual, ceremony, prayer, and meditation since the Bronze Age. The soothing effect of being bathed in an ocean of sound creates a profound relaxation and is helpful in reducing the stress that is harmful to healthy living. The moving sounds of the gong help to quiet and energize the mind and body on a cellular level and restore an intrinsic state of balance. Please arrive by 6:45pm, dress comfortably, and bring a yoga mat, blanket, and pillows to lie on the floor or a chair for sitting.
Drumming is a time-honored method of healing and helping others. While the drum has the ability to put us in touch with our own natural rhythms, the circle helps draw our individual energies together, unifying them into a consolidated force. Drumming helps to release tension, dispel stress and negative feelings, and restore energy.
$25 Pre-registration by noon on day of program; $30 (walk-in)
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A drumming circle is very inclusive in that all people have the innate ability to create rhythm and can participate. Each person is given a rhythmic “voice” in this healing practice as we become connected through an invisible energy while united in purpose and community. Free-will offering. Pre-registration requested. May 24 Drumming Circle (see page 16) will be held outdoors, weather permitting, and will include a Fire Ceremony. Please bring a chair or blanket.
Explorations in Centering Prayer Mondays, 7:00-8:30pm Jan 8 • Feb 12 • Mar 12 • April 9 • May 14 Facilitated by Sr. Pat Irr, OSF, and Laura Desmairis Centering Prayer is an invitation to a deeper relationship with God. You may notice a desire for silence and an inner stillness in your prayer life. If you listen to this call, you will realize a call to prayer without words, a desire to simply sit with God in stillness. In our Centering Prayer sessions, you will learn a simple method for such prayer and the joys and struggles of this type of prayer. In each class we will also have time for quiet, sitting and meditation. Both beginners and experienced practitioners are welcome. Different contemplative themes will be introduced each month. $15/session • Pre-registration requested.
Mindful Meditation
Taizé Prayer Service
Mondays, 7:00pm-8:30pm Jan 15 • Feb 5 & 19 • Mar 5 & 19 Apr 2 & 16 • May 7 & 21 • Jun 4 & 18
Fridays, 7:30-8:30pm Feb 9 • Apr 6 • Jun 1
Hosted The Awakening Heart Sangha
Taizé is a Christian ecumenical prayer service that is designed to achieve a contemplative state and Christian unity through participation in song, scripture and silent prayer. This service helps to quiet the mind and open your heart in the presence of God. Taizé prayer uses short, simple verses and melodies that are repeated, for ease of participation. Light refreshments follow the service.
All faiths are welcome to attend.
Mindfulness is the continuous practice of being aware and awake to the present moment – to be truly present and at one with those around you and with what you are doing. We invite you to join us for our open meditation sessions – a practice of mindful meditation in the general style of Thich Nhat Hanh. Each session will begin with a guided meditation or brief reading, followed by an hour meditation where Free-will offering. No registration participants alternate 20 minutes of sitting/ required. walking/sitting. Beginners and people of all faiths and traditions are welcome. You do not need to be experienced in any meditation practice to appreciate and benefit from our open meditation sessions. Free-will offering. Pre-registration requested.
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Guided Retreats
Giving ourselves the time and space to reflect and heal can be a powerful way to learn more about our inner-spirit. At Tau Center, our personal retreats provide a gentle space to set an intention and explore your soul.
Personal Day Retreats At Tau Center, we know how essential and nurturing it is to take a personal 'timeout', and how a day of retreat can rejuvenate your inner-spirit and your outer-being. We invite you to spend a personal retreat day at our facility where you will have your own Quiet Room and can take advantage of our beautiful grounds, peace path, chapel, and other amenities. We're here to provide a space that allows you to reconnect with yourself. Write, create, pray, meditate, relax, or find your inner-voice in the quiet. Retreat days can be self-directed or customized based on your spiritual path or interests. ($25/Personal Day Retreat)
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As we go through adulthood, we experience many moments where life calls us to pause and wonder. Transitions in family circumstances, professional career, moving to a new location, marriage or death can be marked by an inner change as we sometimes examine our faith during these times. Sometimes we find ourselves at a point where we need something, but we’re not sure exactly what we’re yearning for. As you seek inner-peace in your life, a Guided Retreat offers a personal, quiet space to explore your relationship with God and the love that surrounds you always. We work closely with you to create a retreat customized around your needs and where you are in life and on your spiritual journey. A guided retreat provides an opportunity to rest, renew, learn and grow in your own spirituality. During the retreat you are provided a comfortable Quiet Room and also given time for contemplative and solitary activities. You may also request the companioning of a spiritual director during your retreat. Our directors are sensitive and responsive to where you are on your journey and are experienced in different faith practices. You will have time to meet with one of them and share any issues that may have emerged. ($75/Guided Retreat)
A Day of Deeper Exploration: One-on-One Retreat Intensives
If you are seeking a day for yourself that offers a safe space to explore your spirituality through guided activities, then our one-on-one retreat intensives are for you. Rooted in ‘deep listening’, a retreat intensive is a gently structured day that weaves together silence and conversation, instruction and direct experience. Customized to your individual needs, each retreat includes spiritual companioning, light meditation and prayer, readings, inner-reflection, and contemplative activities, using a specific interest or practice as the day’s framework. Retreats are offered 10:00am-4:00pm on weekdays, as well as limited Saturdays upon request. To schedule a retreat, call Sharon Devo at 630-909-6809. ($100/One-on-One Retreat Intensive)
Meditation Retreat Throughout the day, you will befriend stillness using various meditative practices drawn from Christian and Eastern influences to help deepen your connection with your innerspirit. Creative Spirituality Retreat Creative expression is a growing spiritual practice. Enjoy process art making as a way to discover deeper meaning in your spiritual life. You may focus on a specific form of expression, such as poetry, free writing, journaling, drawing, painting, or shrine box creation. Franciscan Prayer & Spirituality Retreat Explore our deep connection to Mother Earth and all living things using St. Francis’ “Canticle of Creation” and other Franciscan resources as a guide throughout your day. A Day of Christian Prayer Deepen your spiritual practice through the Common Christian prayer, “Liturgy of the Hours”, using the Psalms and Seasons of the liturgical calendar as your guide.
If you are interested in a retreat at Tau Center, call us at 630-909-6805.
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Wheaton Franciscan Community/Staff Facilitators Sr. Glenna Czachor, OSF
Sr. Pat Irr, OSF
Sharon Devo
Sr. Glenna is a Wheaton Franciscan Sister and serves as the Director of Tau Center with more than 25 years experience in group facilitation and retreat leadership, specializing in contemplative prayer and worship, scripture study, and creative spirituality.
Sr. Pat Irr is a Wheaton Franciscan Sister. She has a Master’s Degree in Sacred Science from St. Bonaventure University and a Master’s Degree in Pastoral Studies from Loyola University, along with 20 years of experience in ministry at the Institute for Pastoral Leadership.
Sharon is on staff at Tau Center as Program Specialist, Retreat Leader and Program Facilitator. With a nearly 30 year meditation practice, rooted in desert spirituality and eastern traditions, she creates space in her life for solitude and silence daily.
She holds a Masters of Pastoral Studies from the Catholic Theological Union in Chicago, and is a graduate of the Hesychia School of Spiritual Direction of Tuscon, Arizona. As the Pastoral Associate of St. Gerard Parish in Brooklyn Park, MN, Sr. Glenna directed the RCIA, and adult and young adult faith formation programs. At Tau Center, Sr. Glenna enjoys facilitating small groups and retreats and exploring creative spirituality.
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Sr. Georgene Wilson, OSF, D.Min. Georgene L. Wilson is a Wheaton Franciscan Sister. She holds a Doctor of Ministry degree from the University of St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein, Illinois. Georgene lives in silence and solitude and offers spiritual presence and services from her home in Wheaton, IL. Sr. Georgene is author of several books and her ministry includes animating directed and guided retreats, teaching, preaching, writing, poetry, artwork, and facilitation of theological reflection on a wide range of subjects, all in the wisdom of Franciscan spirituality and presence.
In addition to meditation, Sharon relies on extended time in nature, yin yoga and creative work in her home studio, as the foundation for ongoing spiritual exploration and to balance responsibilities at the primary caregiver for her son with special needs. Training as a Co-Active Coach, SoulCollage® and Open Studio Process facilitator, she completed the Spiritual Deepening for Global Transformation Certificate at Christine Center in 2010. Prior to coming to Tau Center, Sharon’s experience included work as an Operations and Training Leader, Advocacy Coordinator and Hospice Patient Care volunteer. Sharon holds a BA with graduate work in Training & Development, as well as a certificate in Expressive Arts.
Guest Facilitators Dessi Bushi
Christine Kroon
Marian & Gabriela Kraus
Dessi is the founder of From The Place, a ministry dedicated to helping women grow in their faith and build a vibrant relationship with the living God. Dessi graduated from National Louis University, is certified in Spiritual Direction through the Christos Center for Spiritual Formation, and is a member of Spiritual Directors International. Dessi and her husband, Rev. Dr. John Bushi, also co-founded Relief Net, a ministry providing Christian counseling and seminars to married couples.
Chris is a RTY 200 Registered Yoga Teacher with a special certification in Yoga to Transform Trauma since 2016. She also practices Zen Meditation with the Empty Circle Zen Group of NWI led by Senior Dharma Teacher Jerry Ashmore which she incorporates into her Yoga teachings.
Marian and Gabriela established Delamora in 2011 as the platform of their mutual sound therapy and human potential development related activities. Marian has developed a unique style of gong bath sound and guided gong meditations. Gabriela holds masters degrees in art, religions and psychotherapy, and degrees in communication and history. She is certified as a Life Coach and facilitator of Universal Energy.
Laura Desmarais Laura explored meditation while living in India ten years ago. Since then, she has explored Centering Prayer and has been influenced by Thomas Keating and Cynthia Bourgeault. She has been active in the Tau Center for over ten years and has a Master’s Degree in Psychology.
Currently, she teaches Yoga classes at OHM Yoga Studio, Valparaiso, Indiana, and volunteers her time teaching yoga at Campania Academy in Schererville, Indiana, with at-risk teen residents. She also helps at the academy with their Foster Care Program along with other volunteer-based needs. She conducts lectures with demonstrations on Yoga at Purdue University NW for their Undergraduate Nursing Program students. Chris continues to deepen her knowledge in yoga and meditation by attending many workshops, seminars and reading. She’s passionate about the ancient teachings of Yoga and Dharma and is committed to this lifestyle. Teaching to help people live a healthier, happier, less stressful life with kindness, love and compassion is Chris’ mission.
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Guest Facilitators Matt Pozen
Mary Rittman
Therese Yonikus
Matt is Director of Parish Faith Formation at Visitation Parish in Elmhurst, IL. He is a regular presenter for the Biblical Institute of the Diocese of Joliet and his focus on adult faith formation integrates prayer, scripture, song, presentation and small group discussion. His interest in the development of the early church from Jesus, Paul and the New Testament serves as a vision to help shape the way we live together as disciples of Jesus and our mission in the world. Matt graduated in 2001 from the University of St. Mary of the Lake in Mundelein, IL, and was ordained in priestly ministry in 2005.
Mary has been a member of an ongoing spirituality group at Tau Center for more than 14 years. She is a retired language arts teacher with over 15 years’ experience in meditation and is also a certified Healing Touch Practitioner with her own private practice. Mary has facilitated numerous silent retreats and other spirituality offerings such as women’s wellness retreats, mindfulness retreats, chakra programs and others.
Therese is a licensed Massage Therapist in the State of Illinois and has Certifications in Cranial Sacral Therapy and Arvigo Maya Abdominal Therapy. Therese also is a clinical aromatherapist and loves sharing the connection of Essential Oils as companions in life. She continues to study Peruvian Shamanic Healing Practices and enjoys sharing rituals from the Peruvian Tradition as a form of prayer. Therese holds a Master’s of Education Degree from Northern Illinois University.
Larry Stoll Larry Stoll is a Buddhist/ Christian and has been an active member of the Awakening Heart Sangha since 2008.
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Thomas Roberts, LCSW, LMFT Tom has gained widespread recognition in the field of health and healing as an educator, author and speaker who shares practical strategies for enjoying a more fulfilling everyday life. A licensed psychotherapist and clinical hypnotherapist with more than 30 years experience, Thomas specializes in hypnotherapy and mindfulness therapy with particular emphasis on his unique approach to mind-body healing. Thomas is also an author and regularly presents at local, regional and national levels.
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Look for these upcoming programs and more in Fall 2018 at Tau Center In addition to our recurring programs, enjoy these upcoming spirituality retreats in fall of 2018: • Contemplative Photography (September 28) • Mindfulness: Deepening Explorations (September 29) • Cosmic Walk Dedication (September 30) • Caregiver Day of Renewal (October 13) • Journey Towards Christian Unity (October 20) • Winter Labyrinth Walk (December 20)
Stay up-to-date on new program additions or changes by signing up for our E-News online at
www.taucenter.org
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P.O. Box 667 26W171 Roosevelt Road Wheaton, Illinois 60187 630-909-6805 WWW.TAUCENTER.ORG
Offering diverse experiences that nourish your spirit.