Retreat: Welcome Home

Service Description

You are warmly invited to our upcoming Franciscan contemplative retreat, "Welcome Home," taking place on the evening of Friday, November 1, and all day on Saturday, November 2. We join in spirit with St. Francis by offering an opportunity to deepen our connection to ourselves, to others, and to the whole of creation, by being present and embracing the wisdom that is being reflected at us within it. Francis is famously known for his Canticle of Creation, in which he lovingly refers to all creatures as his family and we will explore what this means together. Family, whether human or nonhuman, are those we turn to for wisdom and support, drawing out the Divine love within us. We know Francis as someone profoundly aware of our intricate connection to all living things, recognizing that every part of creation is imbued with God's love and image. Together we will explore why this intricate connection is not only relevant, but essential in the 21st century. In our current time, our country yearns to remember our unity. We can foster this unity through our daily practices and choices that honor ourselves, the human family, and the whole of creation. During this retreat, we will explore how to harness this transformative energy, allowing love to shine through us. Love is indeed contagious, and it starts with each of us. On Friday, November 1, you will be invited for a brief introduction in St. Catherine’s at 4:30pm and then join us for the Franciscan Center’s First Friday labyrinth walk, simple supper, and Taize service. We will also meet for a debrief afterwards. On Saturday, November 2, there will be a day-long retreat in Willow. You will be invited to bring your own lunch but we will provide snacks and beverages in the morning. We will consider the following: What does it mean to be at home in the family of creation? How can we remember our interconnectedness by reconnecting with the Earth? Space is limited to 15 participants, so please register by October 29. The only materials you will need to bring are a journal and your own lunch on Saturday. We look forward to welcoming you! This retreat will be hosted by Nichole Carrubba and Mark Lesniewski. Friday, November 1, 4:30 - 9:00pm Saturday, November 2, 9:00am - 6:00pm Location: 3159 Furman Dr, Marylhurst, OR 97036 Materials needed: Journal, lunch for Saturday Dress appropriately for the weather. Cost: $75