As you wrap up your time of spiritual retreat, writing a short liturgy is a great way to synthesize the key themes and takeaways from your time with God. This not only allows you a moment to reflect on what has been significant today, but it also gives a concrete and easy way to return and revisit those same themes over the coming days and weeks.
Reflect
Start with a couple minutes of reflection. What stands out to you from your time with God?
From your time today, was there:
- A key passage of Scripture?
- A specific theme that God is emphasizing in your mind and heart?
- A verse or chorus from a song that was meaningful?
- A quote that particularly struck you?
- Any other meaningful words, images, or metaphors?
Write
Using some of the items above, put together a short prayer or liturgy. Remember, short liturgies are much easier to use in the day to day than long ones. Try to make it short enough that you can read through it in 1 to 2 minutes at an unrushed pace. Two possible formats for your liturgy could be:
1. A Short Personal Liturgy
Simply select a few of the above components, think about the best order to put them in, and then write them down. In this process, sometimes it is helpful to rephrase specific items so they are in the form of personal prayers. An example structure for a personal liturgy could be something like the following:
- A short quote or opening phrase
- A passage of Scripture
- A short personal prayer
- A verse from a song
2. A Liturgy of the Moment
For this option, decide when and in what circumstances you want to use your liturgy. Write this down. Then, compose a prayer from your reflections above that helps you engage with God, expresses your heart, and reminds you of the truths that God has been teaching you. Again, try to keep the prayer short enough so that it can be fairly easily memorized for day-to-day use.
Use It
Before ending your time of retreat, pray through your liturgy and end with a moment of stillness and silence. Over the coming days, find some opportunities to pause and use your liturgy, dwelling again on the things that God has been doing in your mind, heart, and life.