Programs - Winter/Spring 2011

Friday, January 20 through Saturday, January 21 Yoga & Centering Prayer Retreat Begins Friday at 7:00 pm and continues through 4:00 pm Saturday Nancy Diment and Betsy Meagher, CSJ This program is full. Any future registrations will be added to our waiting list. Expand your New Year celebration and resolutions by coming away for a winter weekend to relax and renew with this unique retreat that draws upon the experience and wisdom of your whole body. Our time together will focus on centering exercises of gentle yoga, breathing, relaxing, along with the contemplative experience of centering prayer practice as we touch into a deeper place of wholeness and sacred peace. $130 when registration is paid by December 30, $140 after Registration includes meals, overnight accommodations, instruction and materials. Please register by January 9

Wednesday, January 25 Group Spiritual Direction Orientation 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm     Christine Parks, CSJ and Gertrude Maurer, CSJ Whether you are racing through your busy day or sitting quietly in prayer, Spiritual Direction can assist you in becoming more aware of the many ways God is present with you, and reaches out to you in your daily life. Your time in Spiritual Direction can help you realize how the Spirit is speaking to and through you. Because they’re now more aware of their actions Spiritual Directees often experience an easier time discerning direction in life’s difficult and ordinary times and move toward achieving greater consistency between deeply held values and the actions they take. Spiritual Direction conversations cover topics like the most significant event over the last month and where directees have seen movement within their life. The Spiritual Direction discussions can be shared during one-on-one meetings with a Spiritual Director, called Individual Spiritual Direction, or as a group, Group Spiritual Direction. Group Spiritual Direction is facilitated by a trained spiritual director and takes place in a small group setting. It provides the benefit of shared insights and broadened perspectives among the group. Orientation is a pre-requisite for those new to the group process. Orientation for Group Spiritual Direction Wednesday, January 25; 6:30–8:30 p.m. Led by: Gertrude Maurer, CSJ and Christine Parks, CSJ This orientation session provides an introduction to the Group Spiritual Direction process along with the opportunity to experience the process. It is a prerequisite for those new to Group Spiritual Direction, and may lead to the formation of new groups or placement in ongoing groups. $5 due with registration by January 16; $10 after Please register by January 21

Thursday, January 26 Men’s Spirituality—the False-self/True-self Dynamic 6:00 pm - 9:00 pm     Rev. James O'Leary and Rev. Jim Dyke Take a break from snow-shoveling and football to join us for an inspiring winter evening with Fr. Jim O’Leary & Rev. Jim Dyke and their lively, engaging and ongoing conversation on Men’s Spirituality. The theme this evening will be exploring, recognizing and coming to better understand the false-self/true-self dynamic contained in all of us. During his time with us, Jesus said: “All that is hidden will be uncovered, what is spoken in solitude will be shouted from the house tops.” We are probably not comforted by this saying, as we tend to fear revealing our secret self to ourselves as well as others. We learn to project a false self for others to see—to put our ‘best’ foot forward. God sees our true self, and wishes us to uncover and see our true self also. That is the work of our spiritual life and the work of our retreat evening. Wherever you are in your spiritual journey you will find this an evening well spent. $35 when registration is paid by January 5, $40 after Registration includes supper. Please register by January 12

Tuesday, January 31 Centering Prayer Introduction 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm     Silence is often described as the language of God. If your spiritual journey has led to a hunger for a deeper experience of prayerful silence in God’s presence, join us for an evening on the process and practice of Centering Prayer. Centering Prayer is a spiritual practice grounded in Christian tradition. It can help us enter into God’s silence which then enters us. It can move us through meditation into contemplation. The evening will include teaching on the history, tradition and dynamics of Centering Prayer along with the opportunity to experience this Christian prayer form. It is intended for those who want to learn the practice for the first time as well as those wanting a refresher, or the opportunity to revive their practice. Once you have completed this introduction, or if you already practice Centering Prayer, we invite you to join an ongoing Centering Prayer group at Transformations on Wednesdays, from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. in Unity Chapel. This program is also being offered May 2. $15 when registration is paid by January 17, $20 after Please register by January 23

Monday, February 6 through Friday, February 10 Beyond Words Icon Painting Retreat Begins Monday at 8:00 am and continues through 5:00 pm Friday Diane Hamel If you are looking for a creative way to ‘beat’ the February blahs, consider registering for an Icon Retreat. Our retreat this year will focus on an engaging and inspiring icon of Mary of Magdala. An icon retreat with Diane Hamel is a richly rewarding experience. As a past retreatant observed, "Fantastic lady - fantastic class!!!" And you needn't be an experienced iconographer to attend. In another retreatant's words, "Her ability to teach such a foreign art form to so many beginners was remarkable." This retreat is appropriate for those new to this form of expression as well as those who have previously written icons. Artists and non-artists alike can engage in this process and leave with a completed piece, ready to display. Participants are encouraged to make this a true retreat by staying overnight and to keep outside interruptions to the minimum. Class size is limited so each participant is able to receive individual attention. The prayer and reflection integral to the retreat help to create a receptive frame of mind, and you will be guided to explore a place beyond words via the beauty uncovered in the Christian symbolism of an icon. Experienced painters may choose to explore additional subjects if time permits. Diane is a lifelong artist, who has studied fine art and has a major in theology. She has studied with Peter Pearson, George Drobot, and Xenia Prokovsky. She has written many icons for private collections, churches, and other institutions and her work has been exhibited around the United States. Details $100 Non-refundable deposit due with registration $550 when $100 deposit is paid before Dec. 29, $570 when paid after Final payment due on or before arrival Each day begins at 9 am and concludes between 5 and 6 pm, although participants may wish to work in the evening as well. Although a commuter option is available, you are encouraged to stay overnight to truly enter into the spirit and rhythm of retreat. Interested in coming the night before or staying the night after the retreat? Request accommodations when you register. Additional charges apply.

Saturday, February 11 Centering Prayer Retreat Day 9:00 am - 4:00 pm     Christine Parks, CSJ This Centering Prayer Retreat Day offers a renewing spiritual pause, a time to set aside all the things that often fill our minds and lives. Enter into holy quiet, and be present to God in the practice of centering prayer. Centering prayer is grounded in an ancient and respected experience of silent, deep listening in the Christian tradition. The day will include an overview of the history, practice and discipline of centering prayer as silent communion with God, beyond concepts, words and images. The scriptural basis for, and psychological aspects of, this prayer will be explored, and experiences of centering prayer will be interspersed with the teaching and sharing throughout the day. Come and deepen your prayer life. Listen for the still, small voice of God away from all the day to day things that fill, and sometimes clutter and distract, your heart and mind. The day is designed for any experience level—including those with no prior experience in centering prayer. $45 when registration is paid by January 20, $55 after Registration includes program, materials and lunch. Please register by January 30

Tuesday, February 28 Spiritual Literacy —A Group Discussion of ‘Books You’ve Been Meaning to Read’ “Field of Compassion: How the New Cosmology Is Transforming Spiritual Life,” by Judy Cannato 7:00 pm - 8:30 pm     Gertrude Maurer, CSJ This program meets on Tuesdays, February 28, March 13 & 27. In Field of Compassion, author Judy Cannato examines the intricate connectedness of the physical and spiritual worlds, and the resonance between the Universe Story and the Christian Story. She explores living with the awareness of our connectedness and how, out of an emerging unitive consciousness, we can make choices that are compassionate and life-giving for all. It also explores the emerging awareness of the benefits of meditation and the power of intention. Come to the first evening prepared to share what catches your attention in the 1st four chapters, what evokes “resonance,” “resistance,” or “realignment” in you. $25 when registration is paid by February 7; $30 after Please register by February 20

Saturday, March 3 Lamentation - Prayer for Difficult and Chaotic Times 9:00 am - 12:00 pm     Christine Parks, CSJ [A lamentation] is a trusting utterance set down in the middle of an ongoing friendship of trust and confidence. ~Walter Brueggemann Whatever our life circumstances, we have all had cause to “cry out” on occasion—even if we didn’t call it a lament, or know we were doing it. Lamentations—the passionate and demonstrative act of expressing sorrow and grief—can be found throughout scripture, from the prophets to the psalms. Even Jesus cries out “My God, my God, why have You forsaken me?” A lament is a personal, relational conversation with God, who is not some distant stranger, but a trusted friend who we believe listens and cares enough to respond to our cry. These days it seems there are plenty of situations that call forth the need to lament. Make this morning a part of your Lenten practice, as we pray with the lamentation psalms; learn about the cycle of lament from crying out through sorrow to praise and gratitude; and write our own ‘psalm of lament.’ $30 when registration is paid by February 10; $35 after Please register by February 20

Tuesday, March 13 Creating the Structure of Belonging with Peter Block 9:00 am - 3:00 pm     Peter Block Is herding cats impossible? Not if you tilt the floor, according to acclaimed organizational change leader, Peter Block. Leaders today need a new set of skills to change the conditions within which groups operate so that each person can find their voice and internal motivation to contribute to the collective good. The era of hierarchy is passing, and those who lead today must set aside the role of hero for that of host. Learning to do this is essential given the rapid pace of change we face. The ability to hold paradox, to shape supportive work environments, to coach and inspire, and to respond from a place of deep groundedness are the skills needed for these times. This is the first of four sessions in our Transforming Leadership. Learn more and apply to participate in the Transforming Leadership program. Learn more about Peter and his work at www.peterblock.com. $85 when registration is paid by February 15; $100 after If you apply and are accepted into the Transforming Leadership program, registration paid for this program will be credited toward the total due for Transforming Leadership.

Tuesday, March 13 Transforming Leadership Series Transforming Leadership is a four-part series providing deep, experiential learning to bring about personal, organizational, and community change. Time-honored lessons of spirituality and the wisdom of leading thinkers in shaping livable communities are pillars of this work. You’ll experience skill building and deep reflection to reinforce the courage to lead from your authentic center. From this grounded place, you can more appropriately move between the necessary role of manager—one who organizes; and the essential role of leader—one who fosters relatedness across boundaries; and brings forth the gifts of others. This program is partially underwritten by a grant from The Generous Promise Fund of the Congregation of St. Joseph. We encourage pairs of co-workers to register so skills learned can be honed between sessions. Session 1: Creating the Structure of Belonging with Peter Block Tuesday, March 13; 9am – 3pm See description above. Session 2: Choosing the Possible Friday, June 8; 9am – 4pm Led by Jean Johnson and Mary Heintzkill How will your life be different if it is more oriented toward the possible? Our problem solving models tend to focus on the past, yet the past is an increasingly unreliable indicator of the future. To be effective leaders in today’s reality we must focus on the present and how our choices can lead to an alternative future, one ripe with possibility. Session 3: The Gift of Leading from Your Core Friday, September 14; 9am – 4pm Led by Rev. Doug Vernon and Christine Parks, CSJ What is the story you most often tell about your organization, and what payoff do you get from its repetition? What does clinging to this story cost you? Recognize your gifts and those of others more clearly by recognizing, developing and operating from the core of who you are. Session 4: Moving to Action—What Have I learned? Noon, Friday, December 7 through noon, Saturday, December 8 Led by Thomas Beech, Christine Parks, CSJ and Michele Gossman How can I build on what I have learned in these sessions... About myself, my work world, and the atmosphere I create with others... About the stories that define my life... About the concrete possibilities open to me and my organization... And how can I find the courage to act on this? “The question of what we can create together is at the intersection of possibility and accountability.” ~Peter Block Participation is limited and chosen based upon submitted applications. For an invitation to the online application, please send a request email to leadership@transformationscenter.org. Applications are due March 30, however applicants must attend the March 13 Creating the Structure of Belonging program to qualify. Registration includes the programs, meals and overnight room on December 7, 2012. Parcicipants must attend all four programs in the series. Registration is $325 if application is completed by February 15; $385 after Please pay for the Peter Block program seperately. For those accepted into the Transforming Leadership program, payment made for Peter Block ($85/$100) will be credited toward dollars owed for the series ($325/$385). Payments for the Transforming Leadership program will not be taken until accepted into the program. (PayPal payments made prior will be refunded and checks will be held.)

Friday, March 23 through Saturday, March 24 Everyday Epiphanies - Seeing the Sacred in Every Thing Begins Friday at 7:00 pm and continues through 4:00 pm Saturday Melannie Svoboda, SND Do you ever wonder where or how to ‘find’ God in your everyday life? Have you ever had a sudden insight into a problem you’ve been praying about while doing some mundane task? Or read a familiar passage from scripture and had a word or phrase jump out at you with new meaning? Or been talking with a friend over coffee and looked at something from a new perspective because of something they said? Call these experiences what you will—moments of insight, inspiration, grace. Melannie Svoboda calls them ‘mini-epiphanies’—manifestations of God in our ordinary lives—in relationships, nature, the news, work, leisure, joy, pain and prayer. Join us for this weekend with author and retreat director Melannie Svoboda, as she uses music, stories, and humor, and invites us to see our own everyday life filled with glimpses of the sacred. Read a review and excerpt of the book at Spirituality & Practice. $140 when registration is paid by February 24; $150 after Registration includes private room with bath, program and meals. Please register by March 9

Monday, March 26 John Dear, SJ Returns for an Evening Meditation and Signing on His Newest Book: “Lazarus, Come Forth!” 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm     John Dear Come hear Fr. John Dear speak on his newest book: “Lazarus, Come Forth!” In this book Fr. Dear offers a compelling new reading of the story of Lazarus, which calls us all to pursue a life of peace. The raising of Lazarus in John’s Gospel is one of the most dramatic and poignant episodes in scripture. While traditionally read as a story about friendship and faith, Dear shows through his extended meditations how it also summarizes the persistent theme of the Gospel—“the new life of resurrection peace.” $10 when registration is paid by March 5; $15 after and at-the-door “Lazarus, Come Forth!” will be available for purchase.

Friday, April 13 through Sunday, April 15 Women of Wisdom, Women of Promise A Retreat for Women Actively Working the 12-Steps Begins Friday at 7:00 pm and continues through 12:00 pm Sunday Karen Anne Jackson, CSC The continuous working of the 12-Steps challenge us to mature in sobriety. Wisdom, when understood as an increase in self knowledge and insight, is integral to spiritual growth. The promises enhance our celebration of gratitude as we continue the journey of recovery. This retreat will provide conferences, interactions, quiet and reflective times as well as opportunities for fellowship and laughter. This retreat is designed for women who are actively working a 12-Step program. Karen Anne Jackson is an experienced AA 12-Step retreat facilitator who creates a warm, welcoming and accepting atmosphere, enhanced by a delightful sense of humor. $180 when $50 non-refundable deposit is paid by March 23, $190 after Final payment due on or before arrival, $10 per person discount for sharing a room. Registration includes two nights in private room with bath, meals and materials. Please register by March 30

Friday, April 20 through Sunday, April 22 Living From Within: The Journey toward an Undivided Life 2011-12 Circle of Trust October 21-23, 2011; January 13-15, 2012; April 20-22, 2012 and June 29-July 1, 2012 (a series of four retreats) Marianne Novak Houston Comments from past participants... "It always exceeds my expectations. It is the primary way that I disconnect with life’s mystery and gain clearness around my questions." "It is one of the most respectful processes I have experienced. Courage & Renewal is what I come away with." "Just wonderful to come away and be led by such a sensitive, brilliant woman." "Thank you Marianne for a very special experience. I have been very moved by all of our activities and especially the clearness committees." The more passionate we are about our life and work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits – to reconnect with the wellsprings of our service to others. In this series of four retreats we will focus on the rejoining of soul and role, on reconnecting who we are with what we do. The focus is neither on techniques nor skills required in our work, but on renewing our inner lives. Using individual, small and large group formats, poetry, archetypal and personal stories, we will address basic life questions which, though they are personal and private, are often deeply instructive when shared in a “circle of trust.” This series, led in the spirit of the work of Parker Palmer, is open to those interested in participating in the four seasonal retreats during which a “courage community” will form. In this environment of trust the deep work of soul is given voice. This is the approach which has proven transformational for the numerous participants in these circles which Marianne has led throughout the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Asia. More comments from past participants... "The facility and atmosphere are outstanding. I am so grateful to be able to come to Nazareth - to escape the pressures of everyday life and just be still. The grounds are lovely – what a gift! I also appreciate being welcomed to the Sunday liturgy with the sisters." "The retreat lead me to great new growth!" "This retreat reminded me to stay grounded and to seek what will make me happy." "It’s an outstanding environment-thank you. Imagine if these walls could speak - the history of the Sisters in this community room, the joy of the Sharing Community with the Living from Within members." Learn more about the "courage work" and personal growth experienced during the Living from Within retreats. An interview with Linda Novak Houston and Linda Powell on YouTube. Registration costs include a private air-conditioned guest room with bathroom, meals, snacks, spacious grounds to walk, and time to “be.” Bring a journal, writing materials, and clothing appropriate for variable indoor and outdoor temperatures. Check in between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. on the first day of each of the four retreat weekends. Space is limited so register early. Save money and register for the four part series by September 21. Non-refundable deposit of $240 for the series is due with registration. Register after September 21; non-refundable deposit of $360 due with registration. Balance of $230 due upon arrival for each of the four weekends. Register by September 30.

Saturday, April 21 Treasures of Celtic Spirituality Exploring Sacred Landscapes of the Celtic World 9:00 am - 12:00 pm     Betsy Meagher, CSJ Celtic Christianity is immensely appealing and inspiring because of its deep respect for and connection with symbols and nature. Come on a journey through the sacred landscapes of Celtic spirituality as we explore the writings, poetry and meditations of several Celtic authors including John O’Donohue, J. Philip Newell and Margaret Silf. This morning will be spent surrounded by the mysteries of our natural world viewed through the lens of Celtic spirituality. It will provide a wealth of wisdom, insight and inspiration for your own spiritual journey. Sr. Betsy will weave strands of the holy throughout the morning, enlivened by the soulful and lilting sounds of Celtic music. $35 when registration is paid by March 30, $40 after Please register by April 9

Saturday, April 28 Awakening the Dreamer - Changing the Dream 9:00 am - 4:00 pm     Christine Parks, CSJ Our earth cries out for people who can find their voice and the courage to act on its behalf. This transformative experience is designed to empower participants to respond to our current global reality with action and informed, grounded optimism about our future. Through dynamic group interaction, leading edge information, and inspiring multimedia presentations, participants are inspired to reconnect with their deep concern for our world, and given tools to make a difference. Designed with the collaboration of some of the finest scientific, indigenous and activist minds in the world, we will explore the current state of our planet from a new perspective, and connect with a powerful global movement to reclaim our future. $45 when registration is paid by April 6; $50 after Registration includes program, materials and lunch. Please register by April 16

Tuesday, May 1 Making it Up as you Go Along Skills for Leading in Uncertain Times 9:00 am - 3:00 pm     Margaret Wheatley This program was originally scheduled for December 8, 2011. It seems that we live in a time of accelerating uncertainty and complexity, a time of ongoing chaos. Join us for this day with acclaimed international organizational consultant Margaret Wheatley in exploring the reality of this perception: How do we maintain our clarity, focus and stamina, inner and outer, as we move with life’s changing rhythms and directions? How do we let go of old patterns and behaviors that no longer serve us or others? How do we find ground (keep our spirit grounded) when it seems the rug keeps getting pulled out from under us? And how do we make meaningful contributions in the midst of all the instability and chaos? In the face of questions like these, she will lead us in looking at some of the tools and skills essential for living and leading in these complex and ‘uncertain times.’ Learn more about Margaret Wheatley at www.margaretwheatley.com. A sample of her work on YouTube. $80 with paid registration by April 3; $90 after Registration includes program and lunch. Please register by April 16

Wednesday, May 2 Centering Prayer Introduction 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm     Silence is often described as the language of God. If your spiritual journey has led to a hunger for a deeper experience of prayerful silence in God’s presence, join us for an evening on the process and practice of Centering Prayer. Centering Prayer is a spiritual practice grounded in Christian tradition. It can help us enter into God’s silence which then enters us. It can move us through meditation into contemplation. The evening will include teaching on the history, tradition and dynamics of Centering Prayer along with the opportunity to experience this Christian prayer form. It is intended for those who want to learn the practice for the first time as well as those wanting a refresher, or the opportunity to revive their practice. Once you have completed this introduction, or if you already practice Centering Prayer, we invite you to join an ongoing Centering Prayer group at Transformations on Wednesdays, from 12:15 to 12:45 p.m. in Unity Chapel. $15 when registration is paid by April 4, $20 after Please register by April 9

Saturday, May 19 Watercolor: The Free Flow of Letting Go 9:00 am - 3:30 pm     Frankie Dutil, CSJ Our spiritual traditions bring us to the truth that the deeper beauty and substance of life often emerges when we stop grasping and struggling for control in our lives. Watercolor painting is a truly experiential metaphor for the spiritual journey. This medium defies precise control yet yields wonderful results when we are able to let go. Prior experience with watercolor is not necessary to enjoy this day. Beginners will learn basic techniques, so whether you have previous experience, or just want to try watercolor for the first time—come, and let yourself go! Register early – participation is limited to 14 to allow individual work with the presenter. Payment is due with registration to guarantee your place. $75 when registration is paid by April 27, $85 after Registration includes program, materials and lunch. Please register by May 9

Friday, June 22 Crossing Thresholds with Paula D’Arcy 2012 Voices of Wisdom Presentation 9:00 am - 3:00 pm     Paula D'Arcy “Paula D’Arcy is a true second half of life teacher. Her work and experiences are a beacon for those of us striving to live a full life along the journey. We first collaborated at year end 2003-04 on the “Spirituality of the Two Halves of Life” 3-day retreat and have greatly enjoyed occasionally teaching together since.” ~Richard Rohr Life is full of change and the continual challenge to grow up. In spite of that our hearts remain determined to find guarantees and security. How do we stop resisting life’s force and flow and learn to step across the thresholds to our own growth? Which is greater in your own life, fear or love? Who would you be if you were no longer afraid? What would you know if your beliefs no longer limited you? Join us for our 3rd annual ‘Voices of Wisdom’ presentation. It will be an inspiring day spent with Paula D’Arcy, President of the Red Bird Foundation, which supports the growth and spiritual development of those in need; author of eight books and a one-act play called, “On My Way Home.” A much sought speaker; Paula travels extensively to churches, seminaries and retreat centers with her message of hope, healing and courage. Learn more about Paula D’Arcy at her web site redbirdfoundation.com. $50 when registration is paid by May 25, $60 after Registration includes materials, program and lunch. Please register by June 4

Sunday, July 8 through Friday, July 13 Intensive Centering Prayer Retreat Katheryn Ann Kobelinski, SSND Intensive Centering Prayer Retreats provide in-depth exposure to the contemplative dimension of the Gospel through several increased periods of Centering Prayer each day and the viewing of a video lecture series by Fr. Thomas Keating on the contemplative dimension of the spiritual journey. This program is presented in collaboration with Contemplative Outreach of West Michigan. Prior Centering Prayer Retreat experience is required. Registration includes program, meals and ovenight accommodations in a private bed and bathroom. $465 when $50 non-refundable deposit is paid by June 1, $500 after

Friday, October 12 through Saturday, October 13 Making Sense of Our Experience: Surviving and Thriving with Mark Nepo Mark Nepo Mark Nepo is a poet and philosopher who has taught in the fields of poetry and spirituality for over thirty-five years. A New York Times #1 bestselling author, he has published thirteen books and recorded eight audio projects. About his new book As Far As the Heart Can See, Publishers Weekly said, “Nepo is a consummate storyteller with a rare gift for making the invisible visible.” The cover for this book is a print by woodblock artist Mary Brodbeck, also from Kalamazoo. During 2011, Mark sat down for his second interview with Oprah Winfrey as part of her SIRIUS XM Radio show, Soul Series, and was interviewed by Robin Roberts on Good Morning America about his New York Times bestseller The Book of Awakening. Follow Mark's posts at The Huffington Post.

Friday, October 26 through Monday, October 28 Living From Within: The Journey toward an Undivided Life 2012-13 Circle of Trust A series of four retreats: Oct. 26-28, 2012; Feb. 1-3, 2013; April 19-21, 2013 and June 28-30, 2013 Marianne Novak Houston Comments from past participants... "It always exceeds my expectations. It is the primary way that I disconnect with life’s mystery and gain clearness around my questions." "It is one of the most respectful processes I have experienced. Courage & Renewal is what I come away with." "Just wonderful to come away and be led by such a sensitive, brilliant woman." "Thank you Marianne for a very special experience. I have been very moved by all of our activities and especially the clearness committees." The more passionate we are about our life and work, the more vital it is that we take time to renew our own spirits – to reconnect with the wellsprings of our service to others. In this series of four retreats we will focus on the rejoining of soul and role, on reconnecting who we are with what we do. The focus is neither on techniques nor skills required in our work, but on renewing our inner lives. Using individual, small and large group formats, poetry, archetypal and personal stories, we will address basic life questions which, though they are personal and private, are often deeply instructive when shared in a “circle of trust.” This series, led in the spirit of the work of Parker Palmer, is open to those interested in participating in the four seasonal retreats during which a “courage community” will form. In this environment of trust the deep work of soul is given voice. This is the approach which has proven transformational for the numerous participants in these circles which Marianne has led throughout the U.S., Australia, Canada, and Asia. More comments from past participants... "The facility and atmosphere are outstanding. I am so grateful to be able to come to Nazareth - to escape the pressures of everyday life and just be still. The grounds are lovely – what a gift! I also appreciate being welcomed to the Sunday liturgy with the sisters." "The retreat lead me to great new growth!" "This retreat reminded me to stay grounded and to seek what will make me happy." "It’s an outstanding environment-thank you. Imagine if these walls could speak - the history of the Sisters in this community room, the joy of the Sharing Community with the Living from Within members." Learn more about the "courage work" and personal growth experienced during the Living from Within retreats. An interview with Linda Novak Houston and Linda Powell on YouTube. Registration costs include a private air-conditioned guest room with bathroom, meals, snacks, spacious grounds to walk, and time to “be.” Bring a journal, writing materials, and clothing appropriate for variable indoor and outdoor temperatures. Check in between 5:30 and 6:30 p.m. on the first day of each of the four retreat weekends.