We invite everyone in our school community to practice espacio during Lent as a means to prepare our hearts for the resurrection of Our Lord. The time of espacio on our campus is 3:00 to 3:05 p.m. It is suggested that people gently close their eyes and sit relaxed and alert to the silence.
While espacio literally means "space" in Spanish, in the context of prayer, espacio means making space and time for God. At the 2000 General Chapter of the Society of the Sacred Heart held in Amiens, France, the term espacio was used to refer to a time of quiet taken by the RSCJ community in the midst of the busyness of an international gathering. It allowed people to make space and time for the inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
The practice has a symbolic as well as a practical meaning because the contemplative foundation of Sacred Heart spirituality is acknowledged as the source which gives meaning and purpose to all activity. As the 2008 General Chapter in Lima, Peru reinforced, the community's spirituality remains "wholly contemplative; wholly apostolic." The Villa Duchesne and Oak Hill School community is using the term espacio during Lent to refer to a time when everyone on campus pauses in the midst of the busyness for five minutes of silent prayer.
Daily School Reflections
February 22-Repent, and believe in the Gospel.
February 23-Blessed are they who hope in the Lord.
February 24-Have mercy on me, O God.
February 27-Your words, Lord, are Spirit and life.
February 28-Take pity on me, Lord, and hear my prayer.
February 29-Lord, give joy to all who trust in you.
March 1-Lord, on the day I called for help, you answered me.
March 2-Lord, deliver me from my distress.
March 5-Lord, have mercy on me.
March 6-I will show the salvation of God.
March 7-Save me, O Lord, in your kindness.
March 8-Happy are those who follow the law of the Lord.
March 12-I hope in the Lord, I trust in his word.
March 13-I will bless the Lord at all times.
March 14-Your words, Lord, are spirit and life.
March 15-If today you hear his voice, harden not your hearts.
March 16-I am the Lord your God: hear my voice.
