Have you ever felt harried and overcome by the needs of life?
Do you find yourself longing for a moment to pause the treadmill of the world and step off for a second?
Are you seeking space to step back and reconnect with God and pray for your own needs and those of others?
Retreat
There is a long history in our Christian spiritual tradition of making a retreat for just these reasons.
A "retreat" is a 'going back', a moment to be still, a moment to release all the things you are engaged in to be refreshed and encouraged.
First, find a space to retreat to.
- a nature space.
- a place food and needs will be taken care of for you.
- a place you will turn off your phone.
- Go on your own, or find a group to retreat with.
Next, set aside the time.
- Take care of business, family, and other practical needs so that you can truly step away.
- Plan what you need to be well and undistracted while on retreat.
By now, you are most of the way there! This 'setting aside' work is critical to the work of retreat. The rest is about engaging the space and content of the retreat while you are there. Enjoy the food. Take in the world and sounds and song of the forest. Pray and trust God.
The St. A's Spiritual Retreat
The St. A's Spiritual Retreat has been an institute of the parish since the 1980s. Each year a small group of folk pool funds to step back together. Often it is the rector of the parish who leads the retreat process and content, occasionally, others have been brought in.
A typical schedule is this:
7pm Friday - settle in and gather for a retreat introduction. Go to bed in silent prayer.
Saturday morning - breakfast, morning prayers, and a first meditation followed by silent reflection time.
Lunch
A second meditation and reflection time
A late afternoon Eucharist and healing service.
Supper
Social time
Night prayers and sleep
Sunday Morning breakfast and a last meditation with reflection time
mid-morning Eucharist.
Lunch, final debrief, and departure
Details this Year
If any of this draws you in please contact Joanne Hoch, Pat Jameson, or send an email to office@staugustinesedmonton.com.
Space is limited, so please jump at the chance and let us know before May 11 to confirm your attendance.
St. A's Spiritual Retreat
May 30th-June 1
Strawberry Creek Lodge (a beautiful log-built lodge near Calmar AB)
Bedding, food, content, and good company is provided. Shared washrooms, solo rooms.
COST: The total cost of the lodge is shared and, depending on attendance, cost will be between $200-$400. Financial assistance is available. So, bring a friend at it will be cheaper for you!
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Location