2026 Women’s Connection

Horizon Gazing: Hope in the Here and Now

August 14–16, 2026AdultSummer
A Montreat Conference Center event

Women’s Connection 2026 will be a time for women to connect with old and new friends; a time to care for yourself; a time for space and Sabbath. As in years past, we will gather through powerful and authentic worship led by women, space for honest and faithful conversation, and time for discernment and renewing rest. Our hope is that you will experience spiritual nourishment, inspiration, and clarity as you pause, reflect, and lift your eyes toward what God is doing.

We are invited into a journey of faith that calls us beyond the immediate chaos, and to trust the soul-steadying truth of God’s presence in our lives. From personal struggles to the news cycle to strained relationships to everyday worries and responsibilities, the overwhelm is real. And yet, God continues to invite us to lift our eyes.

Join us in the quiet beauty of Montreat for “Horizon Gazing: Hope in the Here and Now.” Together, we’ll slow down, worship, find our footing, and look toward the horizon of faith with steadiness and authentic hope. As we gather, we’ll consider what it looks like to raise our gaze, find perspective, share our burdens and our hopes in the here and now. Designed for women at every stage of life, this retreat offers space to breathe, reflect, and be renewed—grounded in community and anchored in God’s faithful presence.

We’re excited to share that we’re putting together an exceptional lineup of workshops and engaging experienced leaders. To allow time to finalize these offerings, workshop registration will open on Monday, May 11 at 10 am Eastern.

If you are already registered for the conference, you’ll receive additional details by email soon about how to register for workshops.

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Women's Connection

 

Leadership

Rates & Registration

Registration for the comprehensive package will open Monday, February 2nd at 10 am Eastern. Registration for commuters opens on Monday, February 9th at 10 am Eastern. Don't worry commuters, we have saved plenty of space for you! 

You are able to register for a comprehensive package which includes your conference fee, room, and meals, or if you have your own housing, you may register for the commuter rate.

Comprehensive Package

Comprehensive rates below include the Women’s Connection conference fee, room in Assembly Inn, Winsborough, or Glen Rock Inn, meals in the Katherine "Kat" McKay Belk Dining Room (Friday supper through Sunday breakfast), plus a $2 community services fee per person for public services provided by the Town and the fire district. Rooms are assigned on a first come, first served basis. After June 25, these rates will increase by $25 per person. Room check-in AFTER 4:00 pm on Friday. Room check-out BEFORE 10:00 am on Sunday.

Assembly Inn is currently at capacity. If you would like to be placed on the wait list, please use the button below.

Single Occupancy Double Occupancy
Assembly Inn

  • Private Bathroom
  • Limited Availability; goes quickly
BOOKED BOOKED
Assembly Inn

  • Shared Bathroom
  • Limited Availability; goes quickly
BOOKED BOOKED
Winsborough*

  • Shared Bathrooms
  • Modest Housing
$447 $387 per person
($774 total)
Glen Rock Inn**

  • Shared Bathrooms
  • Modest Housing
$464.50 $395.75 per person
($791.50 total)

*Please note that the Winsborough does not have central AC or elevator access.
**Please note that the Glen Rock Inn does not have elevator access.

Commuter Rate

Commuter rates below include the Women’s Connection conference fee plus a $2 community services fee per person for public services provided by the Town and the fire district. This rate DOES NOT include room or meals. After June 25, this rate will increase by $25 per person.

  • On or before June 25: $252 per person
  • After June 25: $277 per person

Other Housing Options in the Town of Montreat*

*Montreat Conference Center is not responsible for the rental of these properties or the condition of the premises. Arrangements must be made by the renter, directly with the property owner/manager or realtor.

Other Housing Options in the Town of Black Mountain

Refund Policy

Cancellations must be received by June 30 to receive a full refund less a $75 administration fee. Cancellations received after June 30 but on or before July 15 will receive a 50% refund of the conference fee and payments made toward room and meal charges (if applicable) less $75. No refunds will be issued after July 15. All requests must be in writing and received via email or U.S. mail.

Contact the Registrar

Questions about conference registration, housing, or meals? Please email justinkp@montreat.org or call 828.419.9829.

Tentative Schedule

 

Friday, August 14, 2026
4:00–6:00 pm Registration & Check-in (room check-in at 4pm)
5:30–6:30 pm Dinner
7:30 pm Opening Worship in Anderson Auditorium
9:00 pm Social Gathering
Saturday, August 15, 2026
7:30–8:30 am Breakfast
9:00 am Morning Gathering
10:15 am Break
10:30 am Workshop Session I
12:00–1:00 pm Lunch
2:00 Workshop Session II
3:30 pm Free Time
5:30–6:30 pm Dinner
6:00 pm Will Call in Lobby of Anderson Auditorium
7:15 pm Doors to Anderson Auditorium Open
7:30 pm Keynote Presentation
9:00 pm Social Gathering
Sunday, August 16, 2026
7:30–8:30 am Breakfast
9:00 am Closing Worship in Anderson Auditorium
10:00 am Check-out time

Lunch is on your own. Safe travels, and see you next year!

Workshops

Workshop registration opens May 11 at 10:00 a.m. Eastern. Workshops are open only to guests who are registered for the conference. Registered participants will receive an email with workshop registration details soon.

Practicing Presence with God: Guided Mindfulness Practices for Daily Life
Led by Lesley Rink

Do you find yourself caught between replaying the past and worrying about what’s ahead, rather than trusting God’s loving presence here and now? If so, you’re in good company. This workshop is for women who feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or not quite like themselves, especially in seasons of transition, including midlife and hormonal shifts. Through simple mindfulness and contemplative practices, you’ll learn to calm your body, relate to your thoughts with greater steadiness, and reconnect with God’s presence. Join us for a 90-minute experience that offers practical tools to help you return to God’s presence, even when the mind and body feels busy or unsettled.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 25

The morning and afternoon sessions are fully booked.


When God Slows the Story: Sacred Interruptions in Scripture
Led by Rev. Khalia J. Williams

We often move through life believing that urgency is faithfulness and productivity is purpose. Yet throughout Scripture, God repeatedly interrupts the rush - through wilderness, waiting, Sabbath, silence, prayer, and stillness. What if these sacred interruptions are not obstacles, but the very places where transformation begins? In this workshop, we will explore biblical stories where God slows the story long enough for people to see more clearly, listen more deeply, and discover new possibilities for hope and faithful living.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 100


Carrying Grief, Lifting Our Eyes: A Spiritual Practice for Grief, Anger, and Hope
Led by Sarah Skinner, Kaleidoscope Institute)
Many women today carry long grief: the quiet ache of personal loss, the weight of the world’s suffering, and the exhaustion of tending others while holding so much themselves. This workshop offers a gentle, embodied spiritual practice for naming what we carry without being consumed by it. Drawing on Kaleidoscope Institute tools and a reproducible ritual of breath, blessing, communal naming, and sacred release, participants will explore how to witness pain without breaking and how to lift their eyes toward a horizon of authentic hope. Come experience a practice you can take home to your church or community—one that honors grief, steadies the nervous system, and makes space for the Holy One’s presence in the here and now.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 25


A Walk in the Woods
Led by Lisa Foose

Let’s get some fresh air, stretch our legs and enjoy a leisurely walk in the woods along Flat Creek. We’ll meet at the Nature Hut below the Lake Susan dam and follow Elizabeth’s Path walking almost a mile towards the Montreat gate. The path is mostly flat but there are roots, rocks and a few steps. It is a beautiful area and we will enjoy the sounds and views of the creek. We will return to the Nature Hut by foot! So, bring a water bottle, wear sturdy closed toe shoes and let’s enjoy God's creation as we explore Elizabeth’s Path together!

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 20


Take a Hike, Sister!
Led by Sarah Akin
Join us for an intermediate 1.5‑mile hike through the beautiful Montreat wilderness. This moderate to challenging hike includes steady elevation gain and an uneven trail with visible roots and rocks underfoot, making it a more physically engaging experience. The route is designed to get your heart rate up and will lead us to a scenic natural feature at the end. We’ll trek together, enjoy conversation along the way, and take in the sights as time and trail conditions allow. This hike is best suited for participants who are comfortable navigating uneven terrain and sustained uphill walking. Please wear sturdy, closed‑toed shoes and bring a water bottle. 

Offered in both AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 25

The morning session is fully booked. Space remains available in the afternoon session.


Miles per Stitch: Narrative Quilting
Led by Rev. Katherine Johnson
At different points in history women have turned to fiber arts as a way to express their hopes, fears, opinions, and celebrations. In this workshop we will look at examples of narrative quilts from the past, and some contemporary examples that are shaping new creative landscapes. All sewing levels are welcome in this workshop as we use the simple tools of a needle and thread to explore the stories we might be called to share. Participants are encouraged to bring scraps of their own to use, but materials and fabric will be provided. You will leave the class with a small piece of textile art.

Offered in both AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 25


Nature and Forest Therapy
Led by Dr. Mattie Decker, certified Nature and Forest Therapy Guide

“Forest bathing” (Shinrin Yoku in Japanese) is an experience of being in nature that is not a “hike” but more of a mindful “saunter” designed in a way that participants are led through “invitations” along the way, being in Nature in a standard sequence that ends with a “tea ceremony” with a native tea from the area. Sharing circles and slowing down to allow all the senses to open and experience our relationship with the “more than human” world brings awe and wonder as well as revelations of how we are all connected. Please wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a water bottle.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 20


Maintaining Empathy
Led by Paula J. Swindle, PhD, LCMHCS

Is it possible to maintain empathy in a world that often feels rushed, divided, and emotionally draining? How can we remain tenderhearted and connected without neglecting ourselves? Join us for a discussion on the connection between empathy, emotional health, and vulnerability. We’ll explore how empathy can be both a gift and a challenge, and what we can learn about examples of empathy and compassion in our scriptures and faith traditions.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 35


A Taste of Fruit… of the Spirit
Led by Rev. Dr. Laura Cunningham

The world’s rancor, meanness and vitriolic attacks contradict hope and strangle our spirits. But what if the Holy Spirit is already at work in us, bearing life-giving fruit? How can we connect with the Spirit in practical ways that become the needed antidote? Trusting that God wants to change us personally for the sake of the change in the world, this “going-deeper-encounter” with Galatians 5 encourages playful, prayerful experiments in “love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.”

Offered in the AM only. Limit: 50


The Spiritual Art of Listening: Becoming a Compassionate “First Responder”
Led by Rev. Dr. Laura Cunningham

In the noise of the world, many of us long to be truly heard. Yet Scripture reminds us to be “quick to listen, slow to speak.” Come explore how to listen, not to fix another person’s problem or have all the answers, but to show up for someone and respond with compassion. We’ll consider the spiritual work required to be a listener and practice slowing down, being present, and listening with grace. Come as you are—no preparation needed, just an open heart.

Offered in the PM only. Limit: 50


Manifesting Mandala

By Cantey Smith

We will focus on the revelation of color, blending and structure as we use creative prompts from scripture, poetry, images and objects to make many cohesive layers to compose a mandala. A mandala is a geometric, symbolic pattern; often a circular shape within a square with a central point. It frequently represents the universe, and is used as a gazing point for meditation, spiritual rituals and art. Enjoy creating your own representation of your journey from the outer world to the inner enlightened self. This experience will be suitable for creatives (or “want to be” creatives) of all levels. 

 Offered in the AM only. Limit: 25


Growth Rings

Led By Cantey Smith

With a variety of creative prompts from scripture, poetry, images and objects we will use creative marks made in unusual ways and translucent color to compose an organic medallion.  Let’s explore how combining acrylic paints, markers and primitive images with these prompts create an air of spirituality and creativity which could become a revealing practice for your soul. This experience will be suitable for creatives (or “want to be” creatives) of all levels. 

Offered in the PM only. Limit: 25


Each Journey, Each Story, Each Hope

Led by Julie Ferguson
Every person’s life is unique and filled with experiences that can include loss and grief. Each journey through grief is as unique as each person and that journey may include many aspects of a person’s story. This workshop will explore some of the many types of grief experienced in everyday life and the hope that can be found in the journey through grief.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 35


"Slow Down Into the Flow" Yoga
Led by Martha Nelson

Please join this heart-centered Yoga class for ALL.  Through mindful movement we will nurture our bodies, calm our minds, and reach within to touch God's presence.  This class is calming, joyful, and honoring to all bodies. We will move from grounded postures to warm the hips, legs, back, and arms to standing postures for balance and then back to the floor for deep relaxation. You will feel complete, whole, connected and revitalized after our session together! Expect to connect to your breath and voice to guide you inward. All props provided: mat, bolster, blanket, blocks and eye pillow. Bring a journal to reflect if you desire.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 20


Gentle Flow Yoga
Led by Heather Wallace

This 60-minute slow-flow yoga class will offer a balanced blend of strengthening sequences, lengthening stretches, and moments of stillness, all designed to leave you feeling grounded, refreshed, and restored. With a focus on mindfulness, we will move with the breath, allowing you to fully settle into your body and release tension. Modifications and variations will be given to support different experience levels so each participant can tailor their practice to their desired level. All are welcome.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 20


Joyful Resistance- Dancing it Out!
Led by Megan Dominy

Description: Feeling overwhelmed by…everything? You’re not alone. Step into this Zumba breakout session to move your body, lift your mood, and reconnect with your resilience. Through energizing cardio dance, you’ll spark those feel-good endorphins and rediscover the power of joy—because joy itself can be an act of resistance. Come ready to shake, shimmy, and leave feeling refreshed (and possibly a bit sweaty!) Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothes and supportive shoes for dancing!

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 35


Voices of Hope
Led by Betsy Homer

Calling all singers: join us as we gather together to make music through song as we prepare music for worship leadership on Sunday morning. We will experience ways to bring out artistry and tone quality in our singing voices while providing space to grow in community. Choral experience is not required, but each singer should match pitch and read printed music.

Offered in the AM session only. Limit: 45


PW/Horizons Bible Study: United in Christ: Paul’s 1st Letter to the Corinthians
Led by Cheri Harper

 Although First Corinthians contains familiar theology and passages we easily recognize—like the words of institution for the Lord’s Supper and the meditation on love—readers often don’t realize that Paul wrote this letter to a church in conflict. This introduction to the 2026–2027 PW/Horizons Bible study includes an exploration of the setting for Paul’s letter, discussion on the divisions and a lack of love that Paul said betrayed the gospel and, ultimately, appreciation for the gifts sent to us through Christ. You don't have to be involved in Presbyterian Women to benefit—everyone will be fascinated by this journey to Corinth and Paul’s resonance for the church today, and will bring home tools for sharing this powerful, timely message.

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 35


Writing for Resilience
Led by Heidi Gessner

When life feels like too much, writing can bring you back to yourself. In this workshop, we will explore reflective writing as a spiritual practice — a way to quiet the noise, process what you are carrying, reconnect with your own voice, and blur the line between the everyday and the sacred. Simple prompts from poetry, images, and more will open the door to clarity, buried wisdom, and what matters most. No writing experience necessary. 

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 30


Navigating Friendships & Social Growth: Helping Kids Thrive
Led by Laura Brimberry
Parenting is hard.  Yes, it's full of joys and celebrations, but we don't spend enough time talking about the hard stuff.  Join us for this workshop to dive deeper into the emotional growth of children, but the growth of parents as well.  We will talk about how our relationships at home inform our children's understanding of what relationships look like as they grow into social beings in their own right.   Our children will experience friendships that stand the test of time and also those friendships that don't.  The Holy Spirit will inform us as we bear witness to the beautiful unfolding of human development in our children, but also in ourselves.

Offered in the AM session only. Limit: 35


Guiding Independence: Encouraging Responsibility and Confidence in Every Age
Led by Laura Brimberry
We live in a confusing and challenging time to raise children.  Pressure, expectations, anxiety, and the urgency of a fast-paced culture.  In this workshop we will explore the need for understanding the blessing and science behind instilling independence in our children.  What did we learn from previous generations?  What can we hold onto, and what should we re-evaluate?  In a world of information and scholarship on this topic, we will distill it down to the essential information to encourage interdependence in the way that God hopes for us all.  

Offered in the PM session only. Limit: 35


Mustard Seed Faith in Action
Led by Velma Tilley

Feeling overwhelmed by the current state of our nation and world? Wondering, "What can I possibly do?," when both public and private spaces are full of distress, anger, anxiety, grief, and fear? You are not alone. Inspired by those mustard seed parables from the Bible (Matthew 13:31-32; 17-20, Mark 4:30-32, Luke 13:18-19), this workshop aims to remind us that even small efforts matter. And that the world needs our efforts, no matter how small. Together, we will discuss what you and your church can actually do to be a positive and effective agent for change. Come ready to chat, muster up some authentic ideas for faithful action, and share hope!

Offered in both the AM and PM sessions to different participants. Limit: 35


Horizonless Hope: A Message from Syria
Led by Jihyun Oh

Come Learn about “Horizonless Hope,” a concept introduced by a pastor in Syria in the midst of all of the unknowns of life and ministry for Syrian Christians. We’ll consider biblical stories through the lens of horizonless hope and share how this theological idea might help ground us in faith and life, here and now. 

Offered in the PM session only Limit: 75


The Enneagram System of Personality and Essence
Led by Carol Hovis

The Enneagram is a dynamic system which identifies nine personality types. (Ennea is Greek for nine and grammos is Greek for written symbols.) Although the symbol has been around for centuries, the Enneagram of Personality was “discovered” in the 20th century. It is spiritually rich because of its commitment to transformative growth and its ability to name personality habits & patterns which keep us from living more authentically. Knowing & working with our ennea-type enhances how we show up in relationships, in work and in the world. We will learn about the 9 personality types & 27 subtypes using the Narrative approach. We will explore type and subtype in a spirit of compassion and curiosity.

Offered in the AM session only. Limit: 75


Focus of Attention: Vice and Virtue within the Enneagram
Led by Rev. Carol Hovis

We will continue the Narrative Enneagram approach to explore the Focus of Attention and the Vice & Virtue for all 9 types. We will learn how the Vice and the dominant Instinct mix energetically to form one’s Enneagram Subtype.

Offered in the PM session only. Limit: 75

Main Phone Number

Physical Address

401 Assembly Drive
Montreat, NC 28757

Mailing Address

Montreat Conference Center
PO Box 969
Montreat, NC 28757

Business Office

Montreat Conference Center
318 Georgia Terrace
Montreat, NC 28757

Business Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:30 am–4:30 pm

The Montreat Store

Phone: 828.669.5298

Moore Center, Second Floor
303 Lookout Road
Montreat, NC 28757

Store Hours:
Monday–Saturday, 10:00 am–5:00 pm
Sunday, CLOSED

The Huckleberry Cafe

Phone: 828.419.9880

Moore Center, Third Floor
303 Lookout Road
Montreat, NC 28757

Year-round Cafe Hours:

Tuesday–Friday, 8:00 am–3:00 pm
Saturday, 8:00 am–6:00 pm
Sunday–Monday, CLOSED

Summer Cafe Hours:
Monday–Friday, 8:00 am–9:00 pm
Saturday, 8:00 am–3:00 pm
Sunday, CLOSED