Landscapes of the Sacred #1

The discussion of the axioms of sacred place in Landscapes greatly interested me. These 4 axioms state that "a sacred place can be tread upon without being entered, a sacred place chooses, a place of the ordinary is made extraordinary by ritual, and the impulse of the sacred place can both be local and universal (centripetal and centrifugal)." This definition once again made me reflect on past youth group activities. Christian organizations often take retreats to strengthen community and provide spiritual restoration or revival. During these trips, there are many sources for emotional or spiritual experience: structured talks, free quiet times, and the influence of place. Different people experience these in unique ways; someone could be in the corner weeping while another is bored waiting for dinner, yet the next day they may switch experiences. In these situations, occasionally individuals try to force emotion, yet do not feel spiritual renewal; in these moments, they are entering the sacred place without having the sacred experience of those around them. The Lord may be choosing to reveal Himself to some through that space, but not others. Additionally, these locations are often (in my experience) plain cabins or camping sites; however, the experience in these ordinary places can be profound.

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