Practicing Prayer – Retreat on the River

This series of retreats focuses on prayer from all angles — what is it? Why do we do it? How do we do it? Our approach is experienced-based: each session includes practice in prayer, as well as reflection on our daily practice and experience.

For these gatherings, no previous practice or training or knowledge about prayer is required — in fact, beginners are strongly encouraged to participate, since one of the core principles of prayer is that we are all always beginning from now. The tools each person brings to the group are curiosity, vulnerability, and intention.

The format of the retreat will always begin and end with a period of meditative prayer, with a period for discussion and teaching in the middle. Content will be shaped by the group that gathers, over time, so that the sessions will build on one another cumulatively rather than sequentially. Come to one, or several, as you choose. Discussion topics might include: The absolute basics of prayer; Creating a prayer space and time; Praying in church through liturgy; Praying with Scripture; Praying without words; Praying in writing; Praying in nature; Praying with the breath; Praying with mantras; Praying with the rosary; Praying with icons; Praying on the labyrinth; “Celtic” prayer; Praying in the “dark night of the soul”; Praying without belief; Praying with other traditions/faiths. 

Attendance for each of these retreats is limited to twelve in-person places on a first-come basis, with a zoom link for unlimited remote participants. Use this link to sign up or email the parish office for the Zoom link.

An orientation letter with specific instructions/directions for onsite participants will be emailed a week before each gathering.

Prayer, especially some form of daily spiritual practice, is the foundation of our life together at St. Paul’s, and the source of our fruitful engagement in the world. Thank you for being interested in exploring it further, as we all find ourselves radically included in God’s unfolding ‘Kindom’ of Love!