Group retreats return to GilChrist

We are excited to welcome group retreats back to GilChrist! Group gatherings of all types have been a hallmark of the hospitality we provide, and over the past two years, we’ve missed the connection and renewal they offer to guests. While solo retreats give much-needed respite from the rigors of daily life, a group retreat has a special way of building community through shared contemplative practices. In January, it was so good to see participants gathering again in WindHill – safely and joyously!  

To make our shared space in WindHill, including the downstairs apartment, as safe as possible, we came to a few important decisions after much discussion, based on input from many different perspectives and voices. 

• WindHill access: The building, with its library, meditation loft, chapel, and kitchen, is now open to vaccinated and masked guests.  

• For group retreat participants: Full vaccination against COVID-19 is required.  

• For solo retreat guests: Vaccination and disclosure of vaccination status is optional, and access to WindHill is on the honor system. 

• Vaccine exemptions: Group participants and solo guests with vaccine exemptions due to disability (ADA) or religious conviction (Title VII) are welcome to submit an exemption request. 

If you are seeking connection with others in a group retreat setting, check out the wide range of offerings that facilitators are providing this year! (Got any elementary school teachers in your life? Applications just opened for the week-long teacher residency in July). 

In other updates: 

• We are welcoming individuals to come on retreat for any number of nights. Submit your requests as early as possible! Weekends may be fully booked with group retreats, but weekdays tend to have more availability.  

• We are leaving cabins empty for 24 hours between guests. During that 24-hour period, a staff member will retrieve the laundry, restock supplies, and give the cabin a second cleaning. Based on the latest understanding of the viability of coronavirus in the air, staff will not enter a cabin within three hours of a guest's departure or arrival. 

• If you have any questions about what retreat looks like at GilChrist these days, take a look at our FAQ!