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Contemplative Writing as Spiritual Practice

September 27 @ 9:30 am - 4:00 pm

$70

letting go

EVENT DETAILS

Date: September 27

Time: 9:30 am - 4:00 pm

Cost: $70

Sale: Take advantage of our Earlybird special rate of $60 through 8/27/2025.

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Presenter: Debra Donnelly-Barton

Sale: Take advantage of our Earlybird special rate of $60 through 8/27/2025.

To Pray into Beauty

Terry Tempest Williams writes that “Finding beauty in a broken world is creating beauty in the world we find.” Finding beauty in a broken self, a broken heart, and a broken community is also an affirmation that we are the image of God, wonderfully made, beautiful and beloved.

Daily writing can help move us into our heart’s song. We begin with a word or a thought and then let it bloom; as we ponder, pray, and write, we receive healing for our tired souls — we begin to see the beauty within. We notice and we wonder, then write it down.

During this day-long retreat, we will practice contemplative silence together, complemented with reflections that invite us to practice looking and seeing with curiosity. Writing prompts will be offered, and we will write and share as we feel led. Lunch is included. Guided by Debra Donnelly-Barton.

Debra Donnelly-Barton, MA has led pilgrimages, workshops and retreats across the country for several Christian denominations. She has a private practice in Spiritual Direction, which informs all her ministries, emphasizing deep listening with others for whispers of the Spirit. Debra is a seminary trained Spiritual Director with 30 years of experience. She has studied at Stillpoint, Sewanee, University of the South, and General Theological Seminary in New York. Her master’s degree in Theology is from the Ecumenical Institute, St. Mary’s Seminary & University. She is a Doctor of Ministry candidate in Creative Writing and Public Theology. Debra writes a daily meditation, which she shares through social media.

Take advantage of our Earlybird special rate of $60 through 8/27/2025.

You will be entering your information for registration and payment next. If you would rather call us, please contact our Welcome Center at 410-442-3120 and they can accept credit card information over the phone. You can also contact them with your information and mail a check to: 1525 Marriottsville Rd., Marriottsville, MD 21104. Please note that your registration is not complete until payment has been made.

If you would like to register a group to attend this retreat, please call our Welcome Center at 410-442-3120 or email Doris Gallagher, Manager of Marketing & Events, at Doris.Gallagher@BonSecoursRCC.org.

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What our guests are saying about their stay at The Bon Secours Retreat & Conference Center
"A serene and beautiful facility where spirits can be renewed."
— The Alleluias
"Everything went very smoothly. The presentations were excellent. The bookstore had a great supply of the recommended books."
— Making All Things New
"The Retreat Center is spotless, offers good food, private full baths, seems to have a “happy” staff, persons from office, persons to do housekeeping and all. The hospitality of all is 'tops'. I love the quietness that is encouraged."
— Aging with Wisdom
"Everyone goes out of their way to be helpful and makes guests feel welcome."
— A Path and a Small Light
"Loved your retreat center! Thank you for delicious meals and happy employees/facilitators!"
— Immaculate Heart of Mary
"Could not have been better in any way."
— Gift of Animals: Our Spiritual Companions
"A wonderful, peaceful experience. Very comforting atmosphere."
— Johns Hopkins
"Thank you for the comfort and warmth. The grounds are wonderful."
— Hempfield United Methodist Church
"Beautiful campus. Food was outstanding. Thank you for being so welcoming."
— School of the Cathedral
"Really helped in my continued grieving process. Very helpful. Grace filled retreat."
— August Directed Retreat
"Beautiful facility inside and out! Peace is felt as soon as I arrived."
— Meditators for Better Living
"Everyone was tremendously friendly and accommodating. Such a beautiful, welcoming place."
— Finding Your Way
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