Practicing the Sacred Art of Silence

NOTE: This retreat is fully booked. If you are interested in being added to a waitlist, please reach out to the facilitator using the contact information below.

Silence is how it all begins. Putting space between us and the everyday allows us to bear witness to our life. We are reminded that in this type of stillness, brought on by an intentional stepping out of the daily grind and into solitude, we can hear our own voice echoed in the Divine.

Consider this your invitation to separate from the world – just for one weekend – and to find space apart from the constant thrum of convention and the need to conform. Find for yourself something sacred in the silence. We will be considering two questions: What do I truly need? What do I need to remember?

Guided meditations, journaling, and art will frame the experience. Communal meals will offer a balance between solitude and social interactions.

No previous experience is required; just an acknowledgement that it is time to step away and find quiet in the natural surroundings of GilChrist. Cabins are available for you to rent. Each is nestled into the rolling hills and meadows typical of southwest Michigan landscape. Nature will be our backdrop and will guide us as we learn how to practice the sacred art of silence.

About the Facilitator

Terri Hebert (she/her/hers) was trained and certified as a Spiritual Companion through the Haden Institute of North Carolina. She has spent almost 38 years in education having worked in both public and private K-12 schools, as well as in higher education. Terri is currently serving as Director of the Center for Academic Innovation on the campus of Saint Mary’s College located in Notre Dame, Indiana. Her hobbies include photography, traveling, and writing/reading. She is passionate about the healing aspects nature can provide to individuals. Terri is married to her wife of four years, and between them they have three adult children (and their spouses), five grandchildren, two dogs and two cats.

Retreat Schedule

Participants arrive Friday, July 28 between 4:00 pm and 6:00 pm and are invited to gather at WindHill for a relaxed dinner beginning at 6:30 pm. We will get to know each other and introduce the weekend’s focus on the sacred art of solitude. A relaxing meditation will conclude the evening together.

Saturday through Sunday at noon, participants will be alternating between group interaction and periods of personal reflection. Details will be provided to participants prior to the start of the retreat.

On Sunday, we will open with brunch, and afterwards, a communal time of companionship and sharing will conclude the weekend. Participants will be expected to clean their cabins and depart by 2:00 pm.

Registration and Lodging Details

Step One: Please email Terri or call her at (501) 412-5841 for additional retreat information and/or to register for the weekend event. Be aware that space is limited. Early bird registration (before March 1, 2023) is $300. Regular registration (March 2, 2023 and after) is $375.

Dinner on Friday and Saturday, as well as breakfast on Saturday and Sunday will be communal. Please let Terri know if you have any food restrictions. Other than these times, participants are responsible for their own food and snacks. Each guest space at GilChrist is equipped with a complete kitchen. See the complete GilChrist FAQ for more information about the facility.

Step Two: Lodging is NOT included in the price of the retreat. It is separate and managed by GilChrist. Once you have registered and paid for the program, you are directed to contact GilChrist to reserve your cabin using the online registration form or by calling the main office at (269) 244-1130. Lodging is $60/night per person in addition to the program fee, and payable by cash or check at the end of the retreat.

Participants will check into their cabins between 4:00 and 6:00 p.m. on Friday, July 28 at a time you communicate via your cabin reservation. Cabin check-out is between noon and 2:00 pm on Sunday, July 30.

Note: All group participants are required to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19.