Spiritual Formation

Silence is how it all begins. Putting space between us and the everyday allows us to bear witness to our life. We are reminded that in the stillness, brought on by an intentional stepping out of the daily grind and into solitude, we can hear our own voice echoed in the Divine.

Consider this your invitation to separate from the world – just for one weekend – and find space apart from the constant thrum of convention and the need to conform. Find for yourself something sacred in the silence.

In "Understanding Death and Passing for Everyone", we will explore ways to become more compassionate with others and ourselves during the end-of-life season. From a holistic perspective, we will discover ways of dealing with our intimate needs and feelings. We will draw on a non-denominational spiritual nature, including a First Nations’ talking circle, as we find the wisdom available to us from within. We will explore caring for loved ones and ourselves while making the end-of-life journey.

Join us for virtual silent meditation in honor of John Howie as he retires from GilChrist after 28 years of contemplative labor and service. John has led meditation in various forms at GilChrist, including the long-term practice from 2:00-2:30 p.m. on weekdays. This virtual “big sit” will bring the blessing of silence across the continent and the world as we send our friend into his next phase of life with peace and joy.

Zoom link: https://us06web.zoom.us/j/87061684800

When we think of "resilient” people, we generally think of individuals who adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, stress and/or tragedy, Resilience is a capacity that each of us can build within ourselves through our thoughts, behaviors, habits, and actions. The goal of our time together will be to explore strategies to deepen our commitment to live authentically and to undertake challenges to transform cultures to become more just.

When we think of "resilient” people, we generally think of individuals who adapt well in the face of adversity, trauma, stress, and/or tragedy. Resilience is a capacity that each of us can build within ourselves through our thoughts, behaviors, habits, and actions. Stoicism is a rich philosophical tradition that emphasizes the importance of cultivating four virtues – wisdom, temperance, courage, and justice – to build our resilience, to live well, and to live authentically in the face of life’s challenges.

NOTE: This retreat is fully booked. If you are interested in being added to a waitlist, please reach out to the facilitator using the contact information below.

Silence is how it all begins. Putting space between us and the everyday allows us to bear witness to our life. We are reminded that in this type of stillness, brought on by an intentional stepping out of the daily grind and into solitude, we can hear our own voice echoed in the Divine.

This retreat is for any woman going through an important life transition, and wanting to consciously choose the next chapters of her life instead of letting life choose for her.

As women mature, we move into the phase of creativity and purpose... yet it can be hard navigating this transition when we have spent so many years giving to our families and/or careers, often being stuck in survival mode or even burnt out. How do we find our way back to ourselves? What is your calling for the next season of your life?

"Imagination is evidence of the divine,” wrote poet and visionary William Blake more than 200 years ago. And yet we experience the world, imagine, and create through our very human bodies. In this retreat designed for artists and dreamers of every ilk, we will drop into the body and connect to the deepest parts of ourselves.