Tending the Spirit

Friday, February 28

A concert of music and readings followed by a reception
7 p.m. in the church
The retreat begins with a concert of Celtic music and hymns performed by by Timothy Seaman and Tom Abernathy. Enjoy the distinctive sounds of the hammered dulcimer and flute interspersed with readings from Spirit Wheel by the Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston, an Episcopal bishop, teacher, and Native American elder. Bishop Charleston was the first indigenous person elected as a bishop in our church. His writing inspires and nourishes readers through his published books and social media channels.

Saturday, March 1

8:45 a.m. Check-in outside Palmer Hall
9 a.m. Morning Prayer, Palmer Hall
9:30 a.m. Session I, Palmer Hall
Creative Prayer
This session, presented by members of the St. Stephen’s chapter of the Daughters of the King, will provide guidance to enhance your prayer practice. The Daughters of the King pray anonymously for those who request their prayers. During the session, they will share some of what they have learned and are learning as they grow in this practice. Learning to engage our heart and mind to pray we, and those for whom we pray, are “led into the healing presence of God,” in the words of Henri Nouwen.

10 a.m. Break

10:15 a.m. Session II, Palmer Hall: Spirit Wheel

The Rev. Cate Anthony, associate rector, will lead a discussion of several readings from this extraordinary book by the Rt. Rev. Steven Charleston. His meditations are beautiful and profound, unpretentious and accessible, focusing on various aspects of our lives to convey peaceful optimism and resilient faith. Each participant will receive a copy of his book. St. Stephen’s parishioner Clarice Dibble will talk about prayer beads, a tool to help us construct a life of connection with God.

11:15 a.m., Keynote in the church
We are honored to welcome the Rt. Rev. Susan Goff, former Bishop Suffragan and Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese of Virginia. Bishop Goff led the Diocese of Virginia through the COVID pandemic while undergoing treatment for breast cancer. During that challenging time, she focused on tending the Spirit in herself and in the church. Bishop Goff has recently published The Desert Shall Rejoice: Psalms from the Wilderness of Breast Cancer. This memoir moves through her journey as she tended her own spirit and the spirit of the people of our diocese. Bishop Goff’s talk will be inspirational and enriching for anyone who has gone through a difficult time.

12:15 p.m. Luncheon in Room 14
We will close with luncheon as we reflect on the wisdom and encouragement we have received. We will depart with renewed vitality of faith and spirit. Note: an elevator is available to the second floor of the parish house.