Member for

5 years 7 months
Photo
Cover Photo
bergamot blooms in a summer field
First Name
Deborah
Last Name
Haak-Frost
Biography

If you make a reservation for a retreat at GilChrist, you will most likely see my name on the email signature, talk with me on the phone, or see my face when you arrive. I’ve always delighted in being able to connect people with the natural world in ways that allow them to experience their environment deeply and meaningfully. My undergraduate degree in psychology and environmental studies paved the way for this beautiful integration of two passions of mine. The principles of permaculture – earth care, people care, and fair share – also shape my approach to my work. Making rest and retreat more accessible for all is something I try to work toward.

I also do a lot of the behind-the-scenes logistics and administrative work at GilChrist: working with group retreat facilitators, handling billing, managing social media, keeping the website up to date, cataloging the library, and also pitching in with cabin cleaning and feeding the goats.

When I’m not at work, you can find me volunteering in my Three Rivers community, cooking and baking in my kitchen, taking in thought-provoking television and movies with my husband, or daydreaming about grand garden plans for my backyard.

Job Title
Caretaker for Community Engagement
Cover Caption
Bergamot blooms in this summer view from the GilChrist office
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Staff Department
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org

Do you ever feel like you're pushing the river instead of being in the flow? Despite your best efforts, you just continue to struggle? Join us as we explore how to make space for grace to flow in our lives through movement, breathing, mantra, journaling, and silence.

This retreat is open to all regardless of experience. There will be group practices and discussion as well as time for you to wander the beautiful grounds of GilChrist.

About the Facilitator

Mary Beth Thomas (E-RYT 500) has been touching hearts and minds with her gentle yoga and meditation teachings since 2012. She is passionate about making yoga and meditation accessible to everyone, regardless of their physical condition or previous experience. She partnered with Transformations Spirituality Center to offer the Yoga and Centering Prayer Retreat for a number of years, but now that Transformations is no longer offering retreats, Mary Beth is pleased to find a home for the retreat at GilChrist.

Retreat Schedule

The group will gather at the following times:

Friday, Nov. 7, 6:00 - 9:00 p.m.
Saturday, Nov. 8, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 2:30 - 5:30 p.m.; restorative yoga 7:00 - 8:30 p.m.
Sunday, Nov. 9, 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Registration and Lodging Details

Early bird registration for the retreat program is $275 (or $250 for online attendance); on September 1, the cost increases to $325 (or $300 for online). In-person space is limited, so please register early. Please inquire about options for financial accessibility. Registration form, lodging details, and payment options can be found at mbtyoga.com.

Once you have registered and paid for the program, if you intend to stay onsite at GilChrist, you can contact them to reserve your cabin using the online registration form or by calling the main office at (269) 244-1130 with any questions. Lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the program fee, payable at the end of the retreat by cash or check.

Participants will check into their cabins between 4:00 and 5:00 p.m. on Friday, November 7 at a time you communicate via your cabin reservation. Cabin check-out is at 12:30 p.m. on Sunday, November 9. Each guest space at GilChrist is equipped with a complete kitchen. See the complete GilChrist FAQ for more information about the facility.

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GilChrist Retreat Center
56265 Day Rd
Three Rivers, MI 49093-9535
United States