Desert Domers

Hello from Tucson, Arizona! The Domer adventure continues, but this time in a much different environment. (This is probably for the best, because it sounds like 0-degree temps and ample snow have been in the forecast for South Bend lately.) Here we are at the Redemptorist Renewal Center, surrounded by nothing but desert. Cacti abound - including the magnificent saguaro cacti. As challenging as this place is (by its very nature: quiet, desolate, and virtually distraction-free), it is probably the perfect environment for an intensive class. There are 14 of us studying "Jesus and the Spiritual Life." Our days have a consistent rhythm of Mass, class, meals, community prayer, exercise, reading, and some down-time. I quickly remembered from last year feeling as if I was able to get a glimpse into the monastic life - living in community. It's been great reconnecting with the rest of the Catholic Extension girls, as well as some summer ND friends. 

So we've been learning together about the necessary connection between religion and spirituality, and how the doctrine of the Church is truly a safeguard of, not a hindrance to, the spiritual life. We've done this by examining Christological developments throughout our Church's history. We started by reading about the Trinitarian controversies of the early Church, including the works of Athanasius and Gregory of Nazianzus (or G-Naz, as our professor affectionately calls him). We've also read some texts by Augustine, and we've discussed the development of the creed. These past few days, we've been learning about St. Bernard of Clairvaux, which is an extra blessing because our professor is an expert on this particular Saint. We'll conclude the course by discussing Bonaventure. It's been a lot of information to cover in a very brief period of time, but it's been an excellent course! 

When we're not reading or studying, we do have some down-time. Some of us girls have been taking advantage of this unbelievable weather and going on daily runs. We've also had the chance to take some hikes up in the Picture Rocks National Park, which is right next to the retreat center. 

It's been a great time here in Tucson, but I look forward to returning home and seeing all of you! Hope all is well, and I'll see you soon!