Montreat Conference Center is delighted to welcome back beloved author and teacher John Philip Newell, alongside his colleague Cami Twilling, as they lead The Great Search 1, the first of a new three-part series from Earth & Soul. As in previous Earth & Soul Retreats, participants will be invited into a deeper exploration of spirituality grounded in Celtic wisdom which responds to the needs of our present moment.
For those unfamiliar with Earth & Soul, their retreats offer a meaningful opportunity to engage in spiritual practices rooted in the ancient Celtic tradition. The Great Search, specifically, will address the deep spiritual yearnings of humanity at this moment in time amidst immense transitions in the world and religious exile for many. In the midst of these realities, the retreat gently asks: What new beginnings are waiting to be born within us and among us? Together, participants will explore how reconnecting with the sacredness of the Earth and our own souls can guide us toward healing, belonging, and renewed purpose.
This retreat will draw deeply from John Philip Newell’s latest book, The Great Search: Turning to Earth & Soul in the Quest for Healing & Home, with a particular focus on its opening chapters. In addition, the teachings are also supported by the wisdom of voices such as Thomas Berry, Nan Shepherd, and Martin Buber.
Whether you are new to Earth & Soul or a returning participant, The Great Search 1 is designed to meet you where you are. It can be experienced as a stand-alone retreat or as part of the full series of events, alongside The Great Search 2 and The Great Search 3. Each retreat in the series is offered independently and can be attended in any order. Opportunities are available at Montreat, at other retreat centers across the country, and online.
So, what can you expect during the event?
Each day begins and ends with prayer and meditation, incorporating chant and stillness to help center the mind and open the heart. These practices create space for reflection and deepen participants’ awareness of the sacred presence within and around them.
Throughout the retreat, John Philip Newell and Cami Twilling will guide engaging discussions that draw on ancient Celtic wisdom. Their teachings invite participants to consider how these timeless insights can be applied to modern challenges, offering practical and spiritual tools for navigating today’s complex world.
Equally important is the sense of community that emerges during the retreat. Participants are invited into a shared experience marked by meaningful conversation, mutual support, and a collective reverence for the sacred. In this welcoming environment, connections are formed that often extend far beyond the retreat itself.
The Great Search 1 is more than a retreat. It is an invitation to listen deeply, to reconnect with what matters most, and to step into a new chapter of spiritual discovery. Montreat Conference Center looks forward to welcoming you on this sacred journey! To learn more about the event or to register, please visit our website using the link below.
This article was originally published in the April edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Engaging Grace which highlights conference and event opportunities for adults. Sign up to receive Engaging Grace directly in your inbox by clicking here.