"Walk to Emmaus" Frequently Asked Questions for 08-AUG-2011
In an effort to better inform members of Signal Crest on the spiritual renewal program called “Walk to Emmaus,” we will be sending you two or three Frequently Asked Questions about the program each day this week.
Today’s topic: What Happens During the Three-Day Emmaus Weekend and What Will Be Expected of Me Were I to Attend?
What Happens During the Three-Day Emmaus Weekend?
The Emmaus event schedule that follows is a bare outline of the Walk to Emmaus experience. This two-dimensional overview of the weekend, which lists activities and topics, cannot adequately communicate what really happens in and among the people as a result of being together for three days, focused on the love of God. Nevertheless, this outline gives a picture of what goes on among the pilgrims in the conference room and chapel. This outline also shows why we describe the Walk to Emmaus as a short course in Christianity, not a relaxing retreat. While the Emmaus Walk is fun and rejuvenating, it is also concentrated and full.
The three days have distinct phases and reflect a Trinitarian framework. The focus of Day One is God and the relationship God offers. The focus of Day Two is Jesus Christ and each disciple's response to the grace of God in the context of Christian community. The focus of Day Three is the Holy Spirit and the call to live as an active member of the body of Christ through service in church and community. All three days point to the Fourth Day-living every day as a walk with Christ in the company of one another, through a lifestyle of regular prayer, study, and service.
A moment of reflection, discussion and creative responses follow each of the fifteen talks. The services of worship and daily prayer are thematic and are designed especially for the Emmaus Walk. Each day includes break times. The three days as a whole are embraced by prayer and signs of the sacrificial service on the part of many who help make each Walk happen.
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Thursday |
Friday |
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7:00 P.M.-Registration |
Morning prayer Break |
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Saturday |
Sunday |
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Morning prayer |
Morning prayer Closing |
What Will be Expected of Me Were I To Attend?
Be yourself. No one is asked to sing a solo, make a speech, or bare themselves spiritually before an audience. No one is expected to be pious, saintly, or have a thorough knowledge of the Bible. Participants are expected only to be honest, to participate fully, and to respond genuinely to the message of the Walk as it unfolds.
Come with openness to the message of the three days, to others, and to God. Emmaus is not the place for observers and spectators.
Be present for the whole three-day course. Each component of the Walk is important and plays a part in conveying the overall message. Each participant becomes an indispensable member of the three-day community and of his or her table group. If it is impossible for you to be present for the entire 72 hours, wait for a date when full participation is possible.
Leave your world behind for 72 hours. Emmaus is a time apart with God. Participants are asked to work out their affairs ahead of time to really be away for all three days without interruption, to remain on site the entire time, and to refrain from making telephone calls to home or work except in case of emergency. If your family has an emergency while you are away, your sponsor will come get you.
Tomorrow’s Topics: What are the Strengths of Emmaus and What are the Potential Pitfalls?