Tasks of the Day
The role of the On-Site Coordinator is a very important one. This is the person who, by his/her presence, will ensure the continuity and success of the program. The on-site coordinator will also see to it that the day goes smoothly and the necessary tasks of housekeeping are in place, such as:
* Prepares the room, (chairs in a circle)
* Provides a board or flip chart, etc. according to Presenter's needs
* Coordinates the snacks and refreshments
* Helps the Presenter and the members to stay on schedule
* Encourages and models silence
Living Flame Folder:
At the first presentation, the members are provided with a folder containing the Living Flame materials. It is suggested that each person receive a particular color that will represent the small group that they will be a part of for the remainder of the sessions. Included in the folder should be:
* The scheduled dates for the LF Presentations
* A daily schedule
* Contact list of the participants (first checking to see if all wish
to be included)
* Contemplative Outreach Vision Statement
* Centering Prayer flyer
Lunch:
Although silence at lunch is suggested, groups may differ as to preference. Many Living Flame groups draw from a large area and participants wish to exchange conversation with others there, while some prefer total silence. Still other groups set up both silent areas and talking ones. It may be preferable to let the group as a whole decide.
Schedule:
The basic schedule can remain the same for each of the sessions and for each of the levels. The two back-to-back prayer periods in the AM & PM are an essential part of the day. The conference times might be adjusted by the Presenter of the day, according to the nature of the Presentations.
See: Living Flame Schedule.
Check-Ins:
The on-site coordinator will open the session in the prayer circle. They will reverence each member present by inviting each to offer a brief "check-in" that expresses his or her attitude toward being there that day summing up the thought or feeling in a couple of words. The coordinator keeps the members on task with this very brief sharing. At this time, the coordinator will introduce and welcome the visiting Presenter.
Introduction of the Theme of the Day:
The Presenter will offer a brief reflection of who he or she is in light of being a Living Flame Presenter and in terms of experience with Contemplative Outreach and Centering Prayer. A short description and introduction of the Theme of the Day is also appropriate at this time.
Centering Prayer Periods:
A short Psalm or part of a Psalm in keeping with the Spirit of the day is recommended before the Centering Prayer periods. Usually the on-site coordinator leads the prayer or solicits volunteers to do so. The two periods of Centering Prayer in the morning and again in the afternoon are an essential part of the program.
Small Groups:
The participants are placed into small groups for a more intimate experience of sharing during the seven sessions. Ideally, 4-5 members will be in each group, and the makup of the small groups will remain the same for the remainder of the Living Flame program. Over time, members will bond in the Spirit. The guidelines for small faith sharing need to be respected:
* Practicing the art of listening
* The groups are not problem solving sessions
* Confidentiality is essential
* Freedom to share or not to share
* Give each participant equal time
The Presenter of the day will give the small groups one or two focusing questions to keep the group on the topic.
Large Groups:
The feedback in the large group will generally be the summary of the day. A short evaluation form will be given out and collected at the close of the day. Participants will close in their prayer circle, if convenient, or in the Large Group with a "check-out" similar to the opening "check-in", sharing briefly what they now are experiencing.
NOTE: These guidelines are "pieces of a puzzle" that form a whole. Each has been carefully and prayerfully put together to form the essence of The Living Flame Program. Following each guideline closely gives participants a very rich experience and fulfills the purpose of The Living Flame Program.
(Purpose and Prerequisites of Living Flame.)