Chautauqua Reflection I: "The Chautauqua Experience"

It's difficult to describe Chautauqua Institution to those who have never been there.  Is it a resort?  Is it a collection of summer homes?  Is it a religious retreat and conference center?  Is it a summer-long academic conference?  Is it a place to bicycle, kayak, and swim?  Is it a relatively homogenous gated community that seems cult-like at times?  What is Chautauqua?

Chautauqua is all of these things, and more.  That's why they call it the Chautauqua Experience - until you immerse yourself into the rhythm of a summer week at Chautauqua, it's difficult to get a handle on its purpose.  According to its own mission statement, it is a non-profit community "dedicated to the exploration of the best in human values and the enrichment of life" through four program areas: The Arts, Religion, Education, and Recreation.  In short, it was created (with Methodist roots) as an experiment in a "learning vacation," and I found it to be the rare place that can nourish MIND, BODY, and SOUL.

Unfortunately, with the busy schedule of the New Clergy Program and my mid-week trip home, my body was drained rather than nourished by Chautauqua.  However, the week was certainly nourishing to both my mind and soul.  There, I had the pleasure of engaging my faith with intellect and reason at a level not felt since seminary.

The rhythm of our week went as follows: each morning began with shared breakfast that encouraged community among our group, followed by morning worship (Barbara Lundblad was the preacher of the week).  There was a morning lecture to follow; this week's theme was "21st Century Women: The Road to Social and Economic Growth."  In the afternoon, we attended the interfaith lectures (theme: Women Transcending Boundaries), then met with either the lecturer or another distinguished guest.  Evenings afforded us opportunities for discussion and learning, and at times allowed us to meet with yet another distinguished religious leader.  Late evenings were free so we could take in the evening performances at the amphitheater: symphony, ballet, choir, or Allison Krauss.

The Chautauqua Experience, especially through this New Clergy Program, was both relaxing and exhausting for me.  But I did enjoy it thoroughly, and do plan to return in future years.

Next Reflection: "Ecumenical Communion at Sunday Worship"