In a society bombarded with the allure of external validation and perpetual striving, we often find ourselves caught in the relentless pursuit of relevance, accomplishment, and fleeting happiness. Yet, amidst this tumult, there exists a timeless wisdom that transcends the ephemeral promises of the world—a wisdom that beckons us to turn inward, to listen to the Holy One’s heart in the depths of our being.

Drawing from the insights of contemplatives, mystics, and Wisdom teachers, this retreat offers a space to pause together with others to engage contemplative wisdom practices and inner exploration. Inspired by the teachings of luminaries such as Thomas Keating, Henri Nouwen and Cynthia Bourgeault, we embark on a transformative journey to recalibrate our gaze, redirecting it from the external trappings of success to the quiet rhythm of the heart, our organ of spiritual senses.

Throughout our time together, we will engage a rhythm of guided discussions, contemplative practices, and silent reflection that cultivates the inner postures of surrender and receptivity.  At the heart of this retreat lies a profound invitation—to unravel the layers of conditioning that bind us, to relinquish the need for control, and to trust in the unfolding of life.

Join us on this sacred journey of profound surrender to the wisdom that resides within. Come tap into a deep wellspring of resilience and inner peace, unveiling the essence of our true nature. Together, let us embrace the transformative power of contemplation..

Facilitators

Heather Ruce is a Wisdom Spiritual Director who offers Wisdom Practice Circles, Retreats, and Wisdom Schools focused on the expansive Christian Wisdom Tradition. She works within the lineage of Wisdom Teacher Cynthia Bourgeault whom she has been a student of for over a decade. Heather weaves her Masters in Marital & Family Therapy and training in Somatic Experiencing, Organic Intelligence & Spiritual Direction into her teaching and guidance in various Wisdom practices, all in service of waking up and putting on the Mind of Christ. Find out more at heatherruce.com.

Colleen Thomas is a Spiritual Director and long-time practitioner of Centering Prayer who delights in companioning others on their spiritual journey facilitating contemplative prayer groups, workshops and retreats. Her particular passion is for widening the reach of contemplative practice and teaching to younger and BIPOC communities. Colleen earned her MA in Theology and Art from Fuller Theological Seminary. She worked in television in Los Angeles for 15 years before relocating to her hometown of Washington D.C. where she continues to explore her creative passions while enjoying the close companionship of her family. You can discover more about her work at https://soulcarela.com/and hear her in conversation about Centering Prayer and the contemplative life on the Opening Minds, Opening Hearts podcast.

Schedule (subject to change)

Thursday,  July 11th

5:30     Dinner

7:00     Welcome & Introductions, followed by Centering Prayer & Practices

Friday – Sunday, July 12th-14th

7:30     Breakfast in Silence

9:00     Centering Prayer & Other Wisdom Practices

9:45     Silent Break

10:00   Theme and Reflection Session One

11:15    Silent Break

11:30   Centering Prayer & Other Wisdom Practices

12:00   Silent Lunch followed by Silent Contemplative Free Time with reflection questions

3:00     Centering Prayer & Other Wisdom Practices

4:00     Silent Break

4:15     Theme and Reflection Session Two

5:30     Silent Dinner

7:00     Theme and Reflection Session Three, followed by Centering Prayer & Practices

Monday, July 15th

7:30     Breakfast in Silence

9:00     Centering Prayer & Other Wisdom Practices

9:45     Silent Break

10:00   Theme and Final Reflection Session

11:00   Silent Break

11:15    Closing Reflections & Circle

12:00   Lunch

Registration closes on June 27, 2024 

Minimum of 25 participants.