By Rev. Mary Farmer
Although you are reading this at summer’s end, it is the end of June, in a heat wave, that I am writing this, as I approach retirement and the end of my time on the AFP Huron executive. It’s the perfect time to look back and give thanks for what the AFP has added to my life and ministry.
It’s close to twenty years since I attended my first AFP gathering. I don’t remember the exact topic, but I do remember that whatever it was gave rise to our first Lenten lunch series at St. George’s, Owen Sound. The ideas and enthusiasm shared, along with the worship and prayer, have remained part of life since that time.
Throughout my faith journey, prayer has been foundational. During COVID and in the unfamiliar landscape we continue to navigate, it has become even more important.
I often find myself caught up in the busyness and chaos of managing life. It’s at those times I find it challenging to take time to slow down, and intentionally listen for the leading of the Spirit. AFP topics such as establishing a rule of life (as presented by the Sisters of St. John the Divine), learning about different ways to approach prayer (including contemplative practices and using Anglican prayer beads, adding new dimensions to one’s time in prayer) and learning more about the intersection of music and prayer (as presented by Rev. Andreas Thiel) have been very interesting and helpful.
The most recent AFP gathering was led by Camp Huron Director Gerry Adam, who shared with us her experiences, and ways to reach children, youth and families. I am particularly excited to incorporate her ideas into the time I am now blessed to spend with my grandchildren.
One of the ideas shared was for a ‘pray ground’ in the church. If you search that on the internet, the explanation is exciting… and very easy to accomplish! The Parish of the Holy Spirit, Seaforth has already incorporated with great success a small area into their worship space, right at the front for our youngest worshippers. As well as praying for new faces in our communities, making our youngest visitors and their families more comfortable, is a way to practice the leading of the Spirit into the future.
AFP Huron has been a place for me to learn more about prayer, and the diverse and engaging ways it can be a staple in a life of faith. This group has been a support system in challenging times, and a source of excitement as new ideas and resources are shared.
Thank you for the opportunity to meet many of you at conferences, rep meetings and through periodic articles like this one. Thank you to those on the executive who have enriched my life and have worked tirelessly to ensure we are a ‘praying’ diocese. I look forward to seeing you at future gatherings.
Rev. Mary Farmer is an AFP Executive.