There were a wide variety of lecturers, some marvelous, some not as good, some internationally known. As always with these sorts of things, the quality of teaching varies with the variety of people, but the organizers of the program worked hard to make certain that the lecturers were knowledgeable in their fields and brought something of substance to the program.
One person, Sandy Prather, taught a number of times on scripture. She was one of my favourite lecturers. She was a great presenter, she made her material interesting and engaging, and she really knew her subject when she lectured. Essentially, the type of instructor one should always have, but who are often in short supply.
She contributes a column now and again to a Catholic periodical that I subscribe to, the Prairie Messenger. In her column in the February 16, 2011 issue, she included the following ideas on prayer, thoughts which I find so simple, yet so important to know and bear always in mind, that I thought I'd repeat them here. These 7 simple thoughts are the basics that everyone trying to be a prayerful person should know, and remind themselves of.
"Seven Apt Aphorisms For Prayer
1. Show up. The only way to fail at prayer is not to do it. You can't pray always if you don't pray sometimes.
2. Enter the Mystery. Prayer is not about answers. Let go of your expectations and relax into the presence of the Beloved.
3. Pray as you can, not as you can't. Follow where the Holy Spirit leads you.
4. Recognize the holy ground of your life: God is in the pots and pans. The romance continues everywhere; the dialogue of love is not confined to the church or the sanctuary.
5. Be authentic in your prayer; take yourself as you find yourself.
6. It's not about you; it's about God. Prayer is a participation in willing God's will.
7. To pray well is to pray often."
Thanks for the fair use quote, Sandy. Your work is much appreciated!
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