Step by Step: A Retreat for leaders of Small Congregations

Much like the prayer of the Labyrinth, we believe that the faith formation of small congregations develops step by step. First, we walk inward toward the center in God, and then we return outward to build up our communities. Sometimes we walk alone, other times together. Sometimes the path feels like we are far from God on the outside edge, other times God feels quite near. This gentle pace can be misunderstood by the world as moving far too slow, and taking way too long to incorporate new ideas. But we remain confident that the lilies bloom in their season and that God maintains a watchful eye on the tiniest of sparrows. As the world tells us to go fast, get big, or go home, we will joyfully choose home every time, and put our trust in God’s plan that is constantly unfolding, but not in such a rush.

If you either serve in, work with, or hail from a small congregation of any faith tradition, and you are committed to centering in God and living fully in your community, this retreat is built just for you. So, come and join Pastor Kerra and several members from Ashland Presbyterian Church as we seek to broaden the conversation and reflect on what it means to be people of faith in today’s changing context.

This year’s theme is Mentoring: Biblical, Theological and Practical Perspectives. We will utilize the book of the same title edited by Dean K. Thompson and D. Cameron Murchison.

In this retreat, you will be:

• Challenged to find your center and know your strengths in God.
• Encouraged in your efforts to develop faithful relationships as mentors and recognize the times you have been supported by mentors.
• Invited to share your stories of hope for your congregation.
• Called to pray into one another’s stories of grief, frustration, or despair.
• Connected with congregations of similar size and scope who share the same practical concerns about budget, leadership, worship styles, generational differences, and preparing for the future.
• Welcomed to laugh, cry, be silent, be loud, and be yourself among friends.

This retreat intentionally does NOT have a keynote speaker because YOU are the experts of your own congregational life. In this retreat, and hopefully in the years to follow, Ashland Presbyterian Church will provide hospitality, conversation starters, and a loosely held schedule for prayer and reflection – hoping that y’all will come and make it your own!

Though not required reading to attend, Mentoring: Biblical, Theological, and Practical Perspectives will be a helpful read either ahead of time or for follow up.

Location:  Richmond Hill Retreat Center, 2209 East Grace Street, Richmond, VA 23223

Duration for ALL participants: March 15, 2019 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.  ($30 cost, includes lunch)

NEW THIS YEAR:

*Optional for clergy: 

For clergy who would like to extend the experience…

Pastor Kerra will be available from 9 a.m. through 5 p.m. Thursday March 14 for Spiritual Direction (6 possible slots) and to host an evening gathering 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. for clergy who would like to add a “clergy-only” option to the experience. Richmond Hill is a great place to spend the day in silence, reflection, and with spiritual direction to enhance your time of reflection.

Accommodations for anyone wishing to spend the night: Modest rooms are appointed with one or two single beds and a desk. Four individual hall bathrooms (shower or shower/tub combo) are located on each floor. A few handicap accessible rooms with private bathrooms are available and priority is given to those who require them. (There will be an additional cost for staying overnight or Thursday meals.)

To complete arrangements for the clergy add-ons: spiritual direction, meal/evening discussion on Thursday, or overnight accommodations Thursday night, contact Kerra Becker English to confirm your spot.   kerra.english@gmail.com

REGISTER ONLINE HERE: