Hildegard. Catherine. Teresa. Thérèse. Each of these women has significantly changed the course of history within the Church and around the world. The ways in which they struggled, persevered, and said ‘yes’ to God and God’s call for each of their lives is nothing short of inspirational. Their generous sharing of Spirit-formed gifts — alongside their patronage beyond death — powerfully reflects the deposit of God’s grace in their unique experiences and their respective examples of living faithfully.
What exactly do these female Saints and Doctors of the Church have to contribute to our Lenten journeys in 2025? Join us for a weekend retreat filled with diverse opportunities to explore some possible answers to this inviting question. A brief survey of the wisdom-filled writings of these mystics will be considered and contemplated throughout the program. Reflective exercises from editor Vinita Hampton Wright’s Set the World on Fire will inform our dialogue and inspire our prayer. Participants will be invited to connect with these rich resources while deepening their spiritual intentions for Lent. Various rituals will offer participants a space to articulate personal takeaways and integration of what these incredible women are still offering to contemporary spiritual seekers and sojourners. Please bring along a journal for use during the program and comfortable attire for spending (optional) time in nature. Guided by Gordon Creamer.
Check-in begins at 4pm. There will be a brief welcome session at 5:30pm, followed by dinner at 6pm. The retreat begins after dinner at 7pm on Friday and concludes before lunch on Sunday. Mass will be celebrated in the Chapel on Sunday morning for those who would like to attend.
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. 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.