The August 2014 Nashville Soul Care Retreat is being rescheduled due to a conflict at Scarritt-Bennett Center. Check back for details!
Who is invited? You! Exploring Peace quiet retreats are open to anyone who wishes to make time and create space to commune with God. You are invited to listen and explore God's activity in your life during this time of retreat.
What is a Quiet or Silent Retreat? A quiet retreat is an opportunity to spend an extended period of time in silence and prayer. It is a chance to escape your "to do" list and simply "be" with God. It is a chance to savor God and find a moment of peace. It is an opportunity to listen and to care for your soul. Dedicated time such as this seems almost unimaginable in our loud and busy world. The retreats offer a devotional guide an optional soul care activities (labyrinth walk, yoga, and a prayer room) yet include lots of unstructured time for silence and prayer. While there will be offerings for an outdoor guided labyrinth walk and a yoga worship experience, you are not required to attend or participate. The entire day is time set aside for you to explore your relationship with God and the yearnings of your soul.
Where is this quiet day hosted? The beautiful Scarritt-Bennett Center in Nashville, Tennessee. Overnight stay is an option if you would like to turn your retreat day into a retreat weekend. If you choose to stay overnight, you are to reserve your room on your owndirectly through Scarritt-Bennett Center.
What does it cost and what is included? The cost of your quiet retreat is only $25 and includes a retreat devotional guide and optional activities (a labyrinth walk and outdoor yoga). However, you must RSVP, and space is limited. What are the times of arrival and departure? 9 AM until 2 PM (come and go as your schedule allows, an agenda of activities will be made available to those registered).
How do I pay? You can RSVP and pay your retreat fees online or via check.
Are scholarships available? Yes! A limited number of scholarships are available for Saturday. If you would like to request scholarship funds for yourself or for a friend, contact Whitney.
What will I spend my time doing? To get the most out of your quiet retreat, it is best to fight the instinct to accomplish a list of tasks. Plan to "spend your time" by following whatever the Holy Spirit leads you to - and that may be a nap in your private room or under a shade tree. You may choose to reflect on the scripture provided in your retreat guide or simply go for a long walk. Some people choose to journal, write, or draw.
What do I bring (or not bring)? You may wish to bring a blanket to enjoy the grounds outdoors. You can bring a journal, a sketch pad, your Bible, or a refreshing book (not one you "have" to read for school or work). You may wish to pack a snack and a bottle of water. Please do not bring a computer, phone, iPod, mp3 player, your to-do list, etc. If you plan to participate in our yoga worship time, bring your yoga mat (a few mats will be available if you do not have your own).
Is lunch included? For several reasons, lunch is not included in the cost of the Saturday retreat. Scarritt-Bennett does not allow outside food and beverage and only offers catered meals for larger groups. The staff at Scarritt-Bennett will provide a list of local food choices within walking distance of the center or you could pack a snack and grab a late lunch at the conclusion of our day.
How do I prepare for my silent retreat? Let your silent retreat be a time of prayer and openness to God. It is an opportunity to give your full attention to God and really listen to Him. Commit: The most challenging part of making soul care a priority is often setting the time aside to be still. Commit to make it happen. Unplug: Turn off your phone and computer. It may be tough at first but you will likely find this time of unplugging very refreshing (an emergency number will be available). Let Go: Let go of expectations, say goodbye to distractions, offer your soul a bit of attention, and make plans to be still with God.