As summer wanes, set aside some intentional time to experience diverse poetry — with creative ways to hear and receive it, as well as various opportunities to reflect upon, respond to, and integrate its respective meanings. The day’s journey will include interweaving times of contemplative prayer/meditation, silence, and writing. Each of these will be accompanied by myriad spiritual practices as possibilities for individual and collective engagement with each of the sacred texts offered. Participants will also be invited to bring along a poem, scripture, or song lyrics for an imaginative exercise that encourages deeper exploration and cultivation of personal, spiritual meaning.
This will be a time of inspiring creativity, collaboration, and community. No prior experience with writing poetry is required or necessary. Participants will leave with an expanded awareness of how experiencing poetry in various formats can be embraced as an ongoing spiritual practice. Those interested in this retreat are encouraged to bring along an open heart, a curious mind, and a journal for engagement throughout the program. Lunch is included. Guided by Gordon Creamer.
Gordon Creamer, MA, creator of the Mission Bridge, currently serves as Program Director at Well for the Journey, a spiritual wellness center in Lutherville, Maryland. As a creative and contemplative builder, he has held leadership roles in healthcare programming and operations since 2001 at various assisted living, skilled nursing, and hospice communities. He earned a Master of Arts in Spiritual & Pastoral Care from Loyola University and a Master of Arts in Theology from the Ecumenical Institute of St. Mary’s Seminary & University. Currently, he is a candidate for the Doctor of Ministry Program at the Ecumenical Institute. Gordon has facilitated numerous retreats and workshops that focus on creating opportunities for participants to explore and enhance their spirituality and well-being through various media and formats. He also participates as a peer group leader in the Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation’s Transforming Community Program. His passions include uplifting the journey of adults, individuals with memory impairment, and members of the LGBTQ+ community, as well as fostering support groups and programs for caregivers and those who are grieving losses. Trained as a spiritual director/companion, end-of-life doula, and Reiki practitioner, Gordon welcomes all in discovering the spiritual life as a means of healing, expanding, and flourishing. For more information, visit TheMissionBridge.com.