The Holy Pause: Nourishment for the Journey

The past year has been one of political chaos, social unrest, dramatic climate events, and on-going wars in Europe and the Middle East. The headline, “Breaking News” disrupts our nervous systems and leaves us glued to news sources. Our communities, our nation, our world, and the precious planet we call earth are being upended. We are tired, afraid, disheartened and often cycle from anger and alarm to inertia. How might we sustain our souls, and our relationships over the long haul?

This retreat will give us an opportunity to slow down, pause and orient towards the Holy and Sacred and to that which nourishes our hearts and souls. So much distracts us and we can easily be drawn into negativity and fear. Together we will practice pausing as a critical tool as we seek to train our brains and focus our attention into the “cave of the heart”. Within the safety and confidentiality of the retreat community we will identify the triggers that keep us from pausing long enough to restore our souls. Our time together will include brief teachings, small listening groups, group reflection times, and opportunities to experience a variety of practices that can help us pause. Afternoons offer optional opportunities for rest, for exploring contemplative movement led by Charlie Butler and visual arts led by Susan Michie-Bent.

Retreat Leaders

Pattie Butler, MSW

Anne Findlay-Chamberlain, M.Div.

Susan Mitchie-Bent

Charlie Butler, MSW

Cost

$550 Single Occupancy, $425 Double Occupancy

The price includes housing, three dinners, three breakfasts, and three lunches, the use of St. Francis Springs beautiful grounds, meaningful large and small group sessions, opportunities to explore a variety of contemplative practices, and an invitation to explore and enhance our ability to cope with and thrive with uncertainty.

To register, email retreat leader Pattie Butler.