The Committee supports the following ongoing programs: Centering Prayer, the Nativity Labyrinth, Wednesdays at Nativity, Advent and Lenten Quiet Days, and a Lenten Retreat

Centering Prayer is a contemplative prayer practice in which the mind and heart are open to God's presence and action within. It is a prayer of consent to God's will. Groups meet twice a week in Bibb Chapel. Currently the schedule is: Tuesday at 5:30 PM for Centering Prayer and study; and Thursday at12:15 PM for Centering Prayer and Lectio Divina. The contact for Centering Prayer is Betty Giardini (539-0973).

The Nativity Labyrinth is a maze design painted on canvas that is used as an aid to prayer and meditation. When laid out, the labyrinth covers most of the floor in Ridley Hall. At first glance, the design may appear to be a maze. However, unlike a maze, a labyrinth offers only one path to follow, with no false choices. The Nativity Labyrinth is currently laid out for use on the fourth weekend in January, March, June and September on Friday evening (5 to 7 PM) and Saturday Morning (9 to noon). The labyrinth may be walked by one person or several at the same time. While there are no specific rules about how to walk it, someone is always present to discuss ways the labyrinth has been used by others. Groups within or outside the parish can make arrangements to use the labyrinth at other times. For more information, contact Zara Renander at 533-2455, extension 212.

The Nativity Labyrinth is an aid to prayer and meditation. Shown in Ridley Hall, the Labyrinth is available at regularly scheduled times throughout the year.

The Order of the Daughters of the King at the Church of Nativity is an order for laywomen who are communicants of the Episcopal Church, or churches in communion with it, or churches who are in the Historic Episcopate. Members undertake a Rule of Life, incorporating the Rule of Prayer and the Rule of Service. By reaffirmation of the promises made at Confirmation, a Daughter pledges herself to a life-long program of prayer, service and evangelism, dedicated to the spread of Christ's Kingdom and the strengthening of the spiritual life of her parish. For more information about The Order of the Daughters of the King at Nativity, contact Pat Sampson at 536-9391.

Wednesdays at Nativity is an October series of presentations on the spiritual aspects of life. Each program begins with Evensong at 5:30 PM followed by a catered supper and the featured program. Childcare is provided.

Advent and Lenten Quiet Days and a spring Lenten Retreat offer an opportunity for prayer and reflection. Schedules are announced prior to the sessions.

In addition to these programs, a set of books has been collected for the Nativity Library that address topics related to the spiritual journey, spirituality and spiritual prayer practices. The library is located in Joffrion Hall on the first floor. For information on particular books, contact Jeanie Marsh, Nativity Librarian or a member of the Spiritual Development Committee.

The Spiritual Development Committee invites you to volunteer, provide offerings or provide feedback on its programs. Contact Virginia Caruso at 533-6969.