Member for

5 years 2 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
Engagement Results Display
Off
Staff Department
Department or Org
GilChrist
Email
dhaak@fetzer.org

Forgiveness is underrated and misunderstood! It is a remarkably potent tool that has come to us in wisdom literature as well as in current science. Healing effects have been documented in relationships, decreasing susceptibility to disease and increasing recovery from disease. Forgiving unleashes spiritual energy, opening connections within us, between us, God, and the planet. It sets us free. It’s a form of spiritual nurture and strength that unblocks our energy systems and keeps them flowing. We will look at pungent ideas from Jesus and author Caroline Myss, who describes forgiveness as “healing... a necessity, a Mystical Law.” Of course, we resist forgiveness when we believe ‘forgiveness falsities’ like the myth that forgiving means I’m telling one who wronged me that it doesn’t matter

We will focus on melting resistance through stories, gentle humor, and moments of prayerful meditation when we invite our angels to assist us. Opportunities to experience forgiveness in a supportive environment will be provided through guided and open-ended meditations, silence, journaling, and a unique sound immersion. The presenter discovered the power of forgiveness during a health crisis. She now feels called to facilitate others healing, renewed energy, and freedom.

An incredibly special SOUND IMMERSION SESSION will be provided by Awaken to Sound, comprised of five sound practitioners playing sacred singing bowls. These bowls were hand-made by Tibetan monks as they chanted prayers for health, abundance, and peace, and these are the vibrations that will emanate from them. Please bring a journal and blankets for floor relaxation and Sound Immersion. Lunch, tea and coffee will be provided.

This is a transformational, experiential retreat. Cradled in the solitude of Gilchrist Retreat Center, you will have space and considerable silence to discover what actions are right for you and encouragement to implement them. Wonderful cabins may be available for you to stay overnight. Our reconciliation work will send healing vibrations into our war-torn world. You are invited to practice forgiveness privately, even if you cannot attend!

Retreat Schedule

Wednesday, March 13, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Lunch will be provided.

Registration

To register for this day-long retreat, contact Tere (“Terri”) Krueger via email (click here), or call/text 269-329-9494. The cost for participation is $95.

If you’d like to reserve an overnight stay, once you have registered for the retreat, contact GilChrist using the online registration form or by calling the main office at (269) 244-1130 with any questions. Space is limited. Shared cabins are available if you want to come with a friend. Lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the program fee, payable by cash or check at the end of the retreat. 

Event Type
Start Date
End Date
Join
On
Event Category
Location

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