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On ice flowers, temper tantrums, and what I learned from MLK about being human:
Have you ever felt like arriving at the new year butt first? I did.First my husband left for a work week in DC. I thought that could be fun until I…
Published on Cloister Notes • 
The pilgrimage blues and the peeling of Self: A conversation between Kierkegaard and Richard Rohr.
Did Mary had the pilgrimage blues too? A conversation and a blessing for the weary pilgrim.
 • 
Almut Furchert
2
Beyond Epiphany: Reading the wise (Wo)men journey inwardly with Hildegard of Bingen.
In her Christmas homilies the medieval Abbess Hildegard of Bingen invites us to translate the Epiphany story into the soul’s journey towards new life…
Published on Cloister Notes • 
Wrapping up the journey. A Blessing and a Farewell
Thank you for traveling with us through this Christmas time.
 • 
Almut Furchert
7
12th Day of Christmas: Surprised by Joy ✨
On Christmas Pageants, Leaping Beyond Comfort Zones, and Epiphanies
 • 
Almut Furchert
8
The 11th Day of Christmas: An Epiphany Retreat
Today, you’re invited to visit or revisit our 12 Days Contemplations, weaving them into your own Epiphany retreat. Because Christmas is when you make…
 • 
Chuck Huff
 and 
Almut Furchert
12
The 10th Day of Christmas: Deepening Self
Today's gift is a brief reflection on Edith Stein and the quiet presence of the Divine which leads us to the stable of our heart.
 • 
Almut Furchert
6
9th Day of Christmas: Learning from Joseph.
Today we explore how the archetypal meaning of Joseph's wise presence can help us meet the unfolding new year.
 • 
Almut Furchert
8
8th Day of Christmas: Beginning anew.
Welcoming the first day of the year with a Walking Meditation.
 • 
Chuck Huff
 and 
Almut Furchert
4

December 2024

"By gracious powers wonderfully sheltered." A Blessing at the turn of the year.
Bonhoeffer's hymn is sung widely in German lands at the year's turning. May it also bring you peace and hope.
 • 
Almut Furchert
17
6th Day of Christmas: Gathering the Year.
Here is some tender guidance (with a touch of Kierkegaard and spiced wine!) to lead you through this threshold time.
 • 
Almut Furchert
5
5th Day of Christmas: Sacred Pause.
An invitation to breathe, linger, or revisit the journey—because pausing is as important as journeying.
 • 
Almut Furchert
2
© 2025 Almut Furchert
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