In a small Episcopal church, a weekly meditation session has become a beacon of solace, drawing in a dedicated few, including Judy, an associate pastor. Last summer, Judy extended an invitation to Carrie Classon, who walked by the church regularly. What began as a simple request to join a meditation circle has developed into a meaningful ritual that continues through the winter months.
Every Tuesday night from 18:00 to 19:00, the chapel opens its doors to anyone seeking peace and reflection. Judy places a welcoming sign on the sidewalk, inviting passersby to enter. The atmosphere inside is serene, with dark oak pews, stained glass windows, and the faint aroma of burning incense. When attendees arrive, they are greeted by a calm ambiance, enhanced by gentle music that fills the space.
Classon recalls her first experience: “I arrived a little late, quietly took a seat, imagining I might sit there for 20 minutes or so. But the hour became important to me.” As she settled into the meditation, she found herself enveloped in tranquility, allowing her busy thoughts to quiet momentarily.
The sessions have attracted varying numbers of participants over the summer, with some attending for just a few minutes and others remaining for the entire hour. Regardless of the attendance, Judy’s commitment to the practice remained steadfast.
After a trip to Mexico, Classon returned to find that the meditation circle had dwindled. The first Tuesday back, she was the only attendee aside from Judy. “Is meditation happening?” Classon asked. Judy assured her that it was, even if it meant sharing the experience with just one person.
As winter settled in, the sessions continued with only the two of them present. Each week, the snow cleared from the sidewalk, and the small sign remained by the open door. In a world where community gatherings often depend on numbers, Judy’s dedication to keeping the chapel open illustrates a remarkable commitment to personal and communal well-being.
“Does it bother you to open the chapel for just one person?” Classon inquired one evening. “No,” Judy replied, “I need it, too.” This sentiment reflects the essence of their gatherings; it’s not merely about the number of attendees, but the shared experience of mindfulness and reflection.
The atmosphere during these quiet evenings has become a cherished routine. The dark outside contrasts with the warm glow of candles flickering within the chapel, creating a sense of peace that settles deeply. Classon expresses her gratitude each week, thanking Judy for her unwavering commitment to the meditation sessions.
“It’s my pleasure,” Judy responds, a statement that resonates with sincerity. Her willingness to serve, even when alone, highlights the profound impact of community and the importance of individual presence in nurturing shared spaces of reflection.
As the weeks progress, the quiet moments shared in the chapel continue to foster a deeper connection between Judy and Classon. Their unwavering commitment to the practice serves as a reminder of the power of community, even in its simplest forms.
