Reading the Sunday Scriptures with a Contemplative Spirit is designed to encourage us to listen to the weekly scripture readings in a new way, with a contemplative heart and mind.

Contemplation, according to Walter Burghardt, S.J., means taking a long, loving look at the real.

Utilizing the cultures out of which the bible emerges, we will take a contemplative look at the Sunday scriptures to understand them, and to discern how we are called to live them.

We meet each Friday from 11:30 am to 12 noon. These sessions are held online via Zoom. All are welcome!

Date/Time: Friday, September 18, 2026 thru May 27, 2027 (except on holidays)

Presenters: Gaynell Cronin and Br. Jack Rathschmidt, OFM, Cap.

Upon Registration: Please consider donating upon registration. Dominincan Sisters of Hope, please use promo code to register.

If you are interested in attending this program but are unable to afford the cost of the ticket noted below, please contact Liam Myers at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . We wish you all good health, and hold you in our prayers.

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About the Presenters:

Gaynell Cronin has been trailblazing leader in the field of religious education and pastoral ministry. The author of 12 books and creator of numerous videos on a variety of topics relating to ministry and faith formation in the Catholic tradition, she has spoken and presented at numerous church conferences and meetings. At Mariandale she has served as a spiritual director and retreat leader and is a founding member of our Contemplative Formation Team. Gaynell initiated Mariandale's weekly prayer service– Contemplative Prayer for the World – which she now leads online. Each week she co-presents Reading the Sunday Scriptures with a Contemplative Spirit, and offers Morning Prayer throughout various seasons of the liturgical year.

Jack Rathschmidt, OFM, CAP, holds an MTh in spirituality from the Weston College School of Theology and a PhD from Fordham University in Historical Theology. He is the Director of Post Novitiate Formation for the Capuchin Franciscan Friars of New York/ New England. Writer, teacher, and spiritual director, he is vitally interested in empowering lay people in the church.

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How the Online Program Works

Once registered you will receive an email each week with the Zoom link, meeting ID, and simple instructions in a reminder on Friday morning. If you are interested in attending this program but are unable to afford the cost of the ticket noted below, please contact Liam Myers at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Please make sure you add This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to your email contact list, so that you receive confirmation and reminder emails.

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