Facing Fear, Finding Faith
In a world filled with uncertainty, fear often takes root in our hearts — fear of failure, loss, change, or the unknown. This retreat invites you to step away from the noise and enter a sacred space where you can honestly face your fears and discover the deep well of faith that God offers.
Through scripture reflection, guided prayer, and soulful practices, we will explore how fear can become a doorway to trust, courage, and hope. Drawing inspiration from biblical stories such as Jesus calming the storm and God’s promise of presence, we will learn to anchor ourselves in God’s love when life feels overwhelming. The day will include a biblical foundation from Old and New Testament for overcoming fear and cultivating faith. There will be small group sharing, journaling, and prayer experiences that help transform fear into faith. This day of prayer will include breath prayer, body prayer, silent reflection, and blessing rituals. Come ready to release what holds you back and embrace the peace that surpasses understanding. God is calling you to live not in fear, but in faith.
All are welcome to attend the Friends Day of Prayer retreats, held monthly on the first Wednesday of the month. It is not required to attend every month, so register for one or more sessions as your schedule allows. While the presenters and topics vary, each Friends Day of Prayer typically includes pastries and conversation at 9:30am, a morning presentation at 10am, an optional Mass, a delicious lunch, short periods of free time to enjoy the grounds or shop in the bookstore, and an afternoon presentation.
Rev. Mary Ka Nippard Kanahan is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church. Her first career in public parks and recreation in the DC Metropolitan area informs her wholistic understanding of what it means to live an abundant life. She completed her MDiv degree at Wesley Theological Seminary. Mary Ka has been the Director of Women’s Retreats for a national non-profit organization and led numerous spiritual retreats for all people. She has also completed training in mediation and conflict resolution, spiritual direction, and coaching. Mary Ka has served in a variety of ministry settings and is currently lead pastor for The Sykesville Parish at the historic St. Paul’s United Methodist Church on Main Street in nearby Sykesville, MD. She enjoys spending time with her growing family and traveling with friends, attending theater, concerts, and sporting events, and cooking, dancing, and spending time outdoors. Her primary individual spiritual practices involve biblical study, prayer, lectio divina, small group participation, and regular retreats, as well as community organizing for social action. She is a 40+ year resident of Howard County, MD and will soon be spending more time on the Delaware shore in retirement.