As the season turns and the air grows crisp here in the mountains, we wanted to take a moment to pause, reflect, and give thanks. At Montreat Conference Center, we believe gratitude stirs the soul, shapes community, and points us back to what matters. Bearing that in mind, here are five things we’re especially grateful for as we approach the holiday season:
1. Community
We believe there’s something special about gathering with others for a shared purpose. This year, groups have gathered to connect with each other, deepen their understanding, and even to restore hurricane damage through acts of service. We are so thankful for each Montreater, young and old, well-acquainted and new, who has joined in community with us in this place. Together, we are a stronger force for good than we would ever be apart.
2. Sacred Spaces
We think you will agree, there is also something sacred about Montreat as a physical space. Surrounded by the beauty of nature, here you are invited to wonder, discover, and recover in ways that are often difficult to achieve at home. We are grateful for the sounds of water moving over rocks in Flat Creek and wind blowing through the treetops and rhododendrons. Our wilderness spaces remind us to slow down and remember that we are part of something much bigger than ourselves, and for that, we are grateful.
3. Hospitality
At Montreat, we strive to live into the words: all are welcome here. To that end, we’re grateful for the many ways hospitality takes shape, be it a kind greeting at the front desk, a meal shared among friends, or the warmth of a fire after a long hike. We believe that these simple acts of welcome reflect God’s unconditional love for each and every person. We give thanks that we are able to live out this element of our ministry in this way.
4. Curiosity
At Montreat, we believe curiosity is holy. It’s the spark that invites us to ask deeper questions, to listen others and to God, and to seek continual understanding. We are grateful for the spaces and conversations that nurture this wonder, for workshops that open us up to new perspectives, and for worship services that strengthen our faith. In these ways and many more, our curiosity keeps us learning, growing, and attentive to the ways the Spirit is moving among us.
5. You!
Lastly, we are deeply thankful for you: our guests, friends, supporters, colleagues. Because of your presence, Montreat remains a place for renewal, exploration, and connection. Your gifts, your involvement, and your support all breathe life into this valley and allow us to carry out our mission.
As you gather with loved ones this holiday season, we invite you to lean into gratitude. Let it soften the hard edges of the year. Let it remind you of the many small blessings that often go unnoticed. We hope you will join us in giving thanks for what has been, what is, and what God is doing in our world.
This article was originally published in the November edition of Montreat Conference Center’s email newsletter Cultivating Curiosity which highlights for spiritual growth at Montreat. Sign up to receive Cultivating Curiosity directly in your inbox by clicking here.