As we approach the one year anniversary of Hurricane Helene, we cannot help but be reminded of the storm’s devastating impact on our community. Like many of you, we have spent months in recovery mode — cleaning up, rebuilding, and offering support. We know from first hand experience that if you’ve been in recovery mode for the last 12 months, you are likely feeling tired and weary. And that’s understandable! When you are busy caring for others, it can be hard to care for yourself as well. That’s why we decided to offer an additional Discovering Renewal retreat this fall — to provide a space for the “helpers.”
To this end, we have partnered with Presbyterian Disaster Assistance, an emergency and refugee program of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A), to offer a new “resiliency” track for those engaged in long-term disaster recovery. Participants will engage in storytelling as well as resilience and centering practices as they explore burnout, compassion fatigue, and recovery dynamics within their congregations and organizations. Additionally, Rev. Paul Roberts will lead daily devotional sessions each morning.
But what if you need a break from recovery work altogether? What if you weren’t affected by Hurricane Helene but are still experiencing the effects of burnout? Then we have a space for you, too! In addition to the resiliency track, this edition of Discovering Renewal will feature a number of other activity tracks such as hiking, fly fishing, yoga, and a new visual diary track. Or, if you would like to attend the retreat without participating in an activity track, we also offer a Sabbath track option which allows you to attend morning and evening events, but does not require you to attend programmed activities during the day.
Our hope is that by engaging in these various activity tracks, participants will be able to rest their minds and set aside their worries as they find ways to engage their minds and bodies in meaningful ways. Plus, the skills learned in these tracks can serve as the basis for continued renewal once you return back home.
Of course, we cannot talk about Discovering Renewal without mentioning the sense of community this retreat fosters. While participants come from a wide range of backgrounds (some being pastors, doctors, retirees, or young professionals), they all share an interest in engaging with new, creative ideas and connecting with the world around us. During previous iterations of the event, participants have often shared heartfelt reflections, including songs and poems, encouraged by fellow participants to explore creative solutions to challenges they are facing. This atmosphere of vulnerability and shared respect allows for strong friendships to form and new connections to be made – ones that have continued to flourish long after the event is over.
Through the combination of each of these elements, Discovering Renewal manages to create a retreat atmosphere that is both fun and meaningful. If you are feeling tired and are looking to try something new, we hope you will consider joining us! Registration is currently open and limited scholarships may be available if you are in need of financial assistance.
This article was originally published in the September 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.