Silence

*Silence is God’s first language. Everything else is a poor translation.*
*~ Thomas Keating*

Centering Prayer Extended Weekend Retreat

Centering Prayer is a receptive method of Christian silent prayer which deepens our relationship with God, the Indwelling Presence … a prayer in which we can experience God’s presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. ~ (Contemplative Outreach)

In this extended weekend retreat, participants will be offered opportunities to practice Centering Prayer, be in sacred silence, enjoy the outdoors, and learn more about Thomas Keating’s teachings.

What This Retreat Offers

This extended weekend retreat invites participants into the deep stillness of Centering Prayer — a receptive method of Christian silent prayer that deepens our relationship with God, the Indwelling Presence, a prayer in which we can experience God's presence within us, closer than breathing, closer than thinking, closer than consciousness itself. Throughout the weekend, participants will have opportunities to practice Centering Prayer, rest in sacred silence, enjoy the natural beauty of the South Cumberland Plateau, and explore the richness of Thomas Keating's contemplative teachings. A beautiful way to prepare the heart as the Christmas season draws near.

Retreat Leadership

The Rev. Tom Ward served for many years as Chaplain of the University of the South in Sewanee, and since his retirement has dedicated himself fully to teaching the method of Centering Prayer. A longtime board member of St. Mary's Sewanee and a presenter and facilitator of retreats and workshops for decades, Tom brings an extraordinary passion for sharing the spiritual gifts of Centering Prayer with all who are called to this practice.

Andy Bayard and Frances Jackson serve as support staff, bringing experienced and caring presence to the retreat community throughout the weekend.

Who This Retreat Is For

This retreat is especially suited for:

Those new to Centering Prayer seeking a gentle, supported introduction
Experienced practitioners longing for renewal and deeper immersion
Anyone feeling spiritually weary as the year draws to a close
Clergy, spiritual directors, and those in ministry seeking rest and refreshment
All who are drawn to the contemplative heart of Christian prayer

Financial Assistance

Scholarships are available for those needing financial assistance. For scholarship inquiries, contact Reservations@stmaryssewanee.org | 931-598-5342

Registration Information

After 72 hours of registration, a $100 cancellation fee applies. There are no refunds within 7 days of the program arrival date.

Scholarships are available. Contact Reservations@stmaryssewanee.org for application.

*A minimum registration is required for retreats to take place. If the program does not meet the minimum registration within 2 weeks of the event, there is the possibility of cancellation. If SMS cancels a retreat for any reason, any registered guest will receive a full refund of all payments.