“The retreat was a vessel; it provided the excuse for the Presence to come among us.” Anonymous.
The Spiritual Formation Program has been one of the great blessings of my life. I have been attending annual retreats for the last 25 years, facilitating for about 20. Here is what I have learned by “sweet experience.” The facilitators serve only as vessels. Our participants come together on Friday evening, mostly strangers to each other. During the weekend, a transformation occurs. By Sunday’s time of departure, we have learned about the sweetness of each precious Friend and experienced Spirit at the deepest level. That of God in each of us has been coaxed out of the shadows. And there is a great Light. The facilitators may miss the mark. But Spirit’s constant Presence always enables the transformation.
The lovely grounds and buildings of Pendle Hill set the stage for our spiritual deepening.The spaciousness and ambience of this Quaker retreat encourage peaceful reflection and meditation. We can slow the pace of our lives. Each day begins with worship as we enter into the presence of Spirit for the experiences to come. As trust builds among us, hearts and minds open to the wisdom of each other and the Inner Teacher. Workshops give us opportunities to explore our spiritual ground more mindfully through such exercises as spiritual listening, deepening of spiritual friendships, and holding each other In the Light. In addition to workshops, we also delight in delicious, homemade meals and enriching conversations that knit together our precious relationships.
By the time we close and get ready to go home, we know that our experience has been profound, perhaps even life-changing, as we have explored new depths of our own spiritual being and Spirit’s all-encompassing Presence.
As one participant explained, “I was aware of God’s presence. It helped me to be aware of the possibility of transformation. I am trusting in God’s leading and am conscious of the love of God.”
Those interested in attending “Finding Peace and Hope in Spiritual Community,” the PYM Spiritual Formation Collaborative Spring Retreat, on April 4 – April 6, are encouraged to register here.
Friends who have questions about the retreat or the Spiritual Formation Collaborative, you are invited to connect with Jane Cadwallader at jcadwallader220@gmail.com.
