Comfort: console; cheer; give strength and hope
Joy: long lasting state of being content; contentment
Comfort and joy are more than nice words shared in song during the holiday season. They are “ways of being” that we seek…and a place we want to dwell. Comfort and joy can evade us in the ebb and flow of daily life — and most especially during times of transition, struggle, and chaos. Through it all, we can give and receive comfort. We can dwell in joy. The invitation to recognize, remember, and recommit is always present.
This weekend is an opportunity to accept that invitation. We will recognize those times when life drains our comfort and joy. We will remember those moments, events, and seasons of life when we gave and received comfort, when we experienced joy. We will explore ideas and share practices to help us strengthen these ways of being and recommit to remaining rooted in comfort and joy.
In the company of friends old and new, as a community of women, we will tell stories, laugh, reflect, and celebrate. Our departure will turn us toward the days ahead to console and cheer, give strength and hope, and live into lasting contentment.
Thursday and Friday
This early arrival option begins with check-in as early as 4pm on Thursday so that you can have an extra day to unwind. We will have a prayer gathering after dinner on Thursday. On Friday during the day, you’ll have free time to walk around the Center’s beautiful grounds, shop in the bookstore, or stop by one of our guest vendors that afternoon.
Massages are also available on Friday to schedule on your own for an additional fee. THREE massage therapists will be available again this year, but it is important to schedule early as slots fill quickly. Prices are: 30-minute session for $45; 60-minute session for $85. Payment may be made directly to the therapist at the time of your appointment. Michelle Lisenbee, RN, LMT will be coordinating appointments for all three therapists, so please email her at michelle.lisenbee@gmail.com with your request to schedule.
Friday-Sunday:
The retreat begins with dinner, and then we’ll have a social time of games, activities, and laughter. Saturday begins with a feature presentation, followed by a choice of workshops to attend throughout the afternoon. You will be emailed a list of choices a few weeks before the retreat. Saturday evening will be a time of socializing, crafts, and a movie. On Sunday, the presenter will close the weekend with a special presentation. Guests will depart after lunch.
You won’t want to miss this special annual retreat. Many guests return year after year, and we welcome new guests too!
If you’d prefer to register for the FRIDAY ARRIVAL OPTION, click here.
About the Presenter
Andrea Springer, MA has spent many years in executive administration and formation. She is a graduate of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland, now Notre Dame of Maryland University, with both Bachelor of Arts and Master of Arts degrees in liberal arts and religious studies. In addition to being a graduate of the University, she is an adjunct faculty member. Andrea designs and facilitates workshops and retreats for a variety of organizations and has been a popular presenter for Women’s Wellness and other Bon Secours retreats.