Bookends: Ending and Beginning with Compassion

Come to GilChrist for an end-of-the-year retreat focused on parting well with 2019 and setting intentions for 2020, with an eye toward one's true nature. Using a combination of loving kindness meditation, sharing in community, and other contemplative activities, we will clarify thoughts and focus intentions.

About the Facilitator

John Howie began meditating in 1975 when he read the book The Relaxation Response by Herbert Benson. He has continued practicing since then, including extensive training from Naropa University. John has led retreats and weekly meditation sessions and has provided spiritual guidance for GilChrist Retreat Center for over 23 years. He has also completed the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP), developed by Tara Brach and Jack Kornfield and certified by both the Awareness Training Institute and the Greater Good Science Center. In addition to contemplative practices, John has worked as a counselor for over 35 years and has a doctorate degree in counseling from Western Michigan University.

General Information

The cost of $225 includes facilitated programming and three nights’ lodging in a GilChrist cabin. Participants will check in between 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. on December 27 and depart at 4 p.m. on December 30, with the option to extend personal retreat by prior arrangement. Individuals are responsible for their own meals, and each guest space at GilChrist is equipped with a complete kitchen. To make a reservation, please call the GilChrist office at 269-244-1130 or use our online reservation form.