By Laura Perticara, 2007-2008 Providence Volunteer Minister

On Friday Sept 14, the PVM’s, our director, Julie, and I had our first Sabbath day of the year. Sister Mary Montgomery led the Sabbath according to her theme of abundance.

In the morning, amidst the smell of freshly baked bread, we sat and shared symbols and scriptures that reminded us of God’s abundance. Our discussion centered around the abundance (and sometimes overabundance) of produce; the biblical story of Joseph — seven years of bounty followed by seven years of famine; the abundance of life that comes out of a seed or of fleece that comes from an alpaca; the abundance of God’s love and provision as depicted in Isaiah 55; the joy of co-existing in abundance (not trying to outdo others); the need to sow much to harvest much; and the need to balance periods of abundance with periods of fallowness.

After discussion, a gardener prayer, and a snack of homemade, warm rolls (thanks Sister Mary!), we had free time to reflect, journal, walk the labyrinth, or head to church. I enjoyed having the free time to spend with God and to reflect on what we had discussed that morning.

At noontime, we shared (with ourselves and the bees) the sunshine, conversation, and an abundance of tasty food from a local café. We then took time to reflect on the wealth of gifts God has given us. We each made an artistic collage of paints and magazine cut-outs, images and phrases, to remind us of God’s abundance in ourselves and in the world.

The day ended with a visit to some of the sisters in Healthcare. We were able to share ourselves and our rolls with the sisters as they shared their stories with us.

All and all, the Sabbath day was refreshing. Not only did it give us a chance to pause from our normal work schedule, it also allowed us to reflect on the theme of God’s abundance. We can rest in God as we remember how He has and will provide for us and for the earth. The day also provided a variety of activities (different ways to envision God’s abundance) and a much appreciated chance to visit with people whom we do not see everyday.