- Personal Renewal through Solitude
- Prayer or Meditation Focus
- Nature Immersion
- Couple Connection
- Group Enrichment
- Art Exploration
- Writing Intensive
Simply put, retreat is time apart and away from the routines and environments of daily life. For many, retreat is a regular practice to support a general well being. Others choose to retreat while in the process of discerning a life change or new direction. Retreat experiences are also helpful for groups of people to foster healthy community among the group members.
Designing Individual Retreat Time at Cedar Cross
There are a number of reasons individuals choose to set some time apart for rest, reflection, and renewal. Perhaps you feel the need for a restorative rest; or maybe you are facing significant decisions around work, relationships, life style, or your spiritual journey. Below are some ideas to consider as you plan your personal retreat.
- Carving out sufficient time to really settle into quietness and nature seems to work best. We suggest planning for 1-3 days which works well at Heron’s Nest or one of the suites in the Lodge. If you are crunched for time, a half-day in the Garden Loft may be the best setting.
- Sometimes, talking with a trained individual regarding your spiritual journey is helpful. Spiritual guidance, often referred to as spiritual direction, is typically available by appointment during your retreat time.
- Make prior arrangements with the Retreat Coordinator to schedule time in the Art Studio for an imaginative experience using a variety of art media.
- Spending time in prayer, meditation, and/or journaling can often center an individual and help bring focus to what is important.
- Taking time to enjoy nature and feeling more connected to creation and God may be aided through walking the trails, the labyrinth, or the “Way of Jesus.”
If you are unsure as to how you might structure your individual retreat time, our booklet – “Designing Your Own Retreat” – is available in the Cedar Cross Nook or you can talk with Retreat Coordinator, Jimmy Allen.
Enhancing a Group Retreat
Below are a few suggestions for enriching your group retreat gathering. We have found that relying heavily on presentation materials may limit the value participants experience during the retreat. Varied activities which involve participants directly can have a greater impact.
- Nature – Invite participants to take a reflective walk along the trails, encouraging the use of the labyrinth or the “Way of Jesus.” Retreatants might find a spot to stop and reflect along the way or return with a symbol from nature signifying their experience. Allow sufficient time for this activity.
- Creativity – Make prior arrangements with the Retreat Coordinator to have retreatants visit the Art Studio for an imaginative experience using a variety of art media.
- Sharing – Often, it is uncomfortable to share in the whole group. Begin sharing by paring up individuals to answer questions and then in groups of four. Whole group sharing might be facilitated by asking participants to reflect for a minute and then share a word or phrase that reflects what was discussed.
- Reflecting on a Reading – A Scripture story, parable of teaching can be read, preferably slowly and more than once. Invite retreatants to listen for a word or phrase that touches them to possibly share with the group. This process can also be used with a contemporary reading or poem.
- Journaling – Provide time for participants to write reflectively on what was shared, what they learned, and what questions remain.
- Silence – Some individuals are uncomfortable with silence and desire to fill all space with words and noise. It is often a challenge to quiet the internal dialogue that constantly runs for many of us. Using some quieting techniques such as paying attentions to one’s breathing, focusing on a sacred word or a candle, or repeating a simple prayer can gradually slow down the inner voices and distractions, and allow one to become fully present.
Incorporating a range of experiences will often facilitate coming to consensus, feeling supported and connected to the group, finding greater creativity in solving problems, or coming together around new ideas. Giving everyone an opportunity to be heard can also reduce posturing and conflict. Feel free to discuss any of these ideas with our Retreat Coordinator, Jimmy Allen.