As life has become more complicated and demanding, retreats have become an important way to create a space to slow down, listen, and experience restoration. If we consider the environment surrounding life from decades and centuries gone by, we can vividly see how much everything has changed. Centuries ago, life was lived within a natural rhythm of daylight and confined primarily to the immediate community in which one lived.  Decades ago, a lack of transportation limited the area in which people were active. Family activities were primarily centered on chores, family meals, schoolwork, and neighborhood gatherings. Today with limitless sources of energy to power 24/7 activity, sources of transportation to enable expanded activity possibilities, and sources of possibilities for increased activity itself through sports, arts, pleasure, leisure, and entertainment, people have predictably embraced the challenge to fill schedules to the brim with a bit of everything. Space and time to recharge in silence, solitude, reflection, and soul restoration has been the sacrificial lamb in all of this.

 

Increasingly, churches, retreat centers and other groups are turning to various types of retreats as a way to provide an alternative to the busyness syndrome that envelops all of us. And in a rather fitting and somewhat ironic way, it seems as though the only pathway out of the complex lifestyles we’ve adopted is to schedule an escape alternative on the calendar.

• Retreats can be multiple day events, (three or more is most effective for Silent Retreats) creating sacred space for prayer, reflection, and personal spiritual direction.

• Retreats can be single day, or overnight events formed around a specific spiritual topic and offered in a presentation—practical application format.

• Retreats can be partial or full day events devoted to training, envisioning, inspiration or activation.

 

I am trained to provide all of the necessary components for silent retreats as well as spiritual direction to retreatants. I have experience in facilitating retreats focused on envisioning and equipping. I also have experience in retreats designed to introduce people to deeper expressions of spiritual practice. Whatever kind of retreat that your church or group plans, I would be honored to assist you in making it the best possible experience for your participants.

​