Spiritual Listening Retreat
Foster connection, bridge divides, and create lasting change
“By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another.” -John 13:35 NIV
We live in an increasingly polarized world, a world in which most of us don’t even know where to begin to have a conversation with someone on the other side of a political or theological divide. And yet, as Christians, we are called to the ministry of reconciliation and to be identified as Christ-followers by our love for one another.
This retreat arose out of doctoral-level research and has proven in practice to foster connection, bridge divides, and create lasting change in its participants. It is rooted in ancient spiritual practices that will equip the modern church to be known by its love.
Who is this retreat for?
This retreat would be beneficial for churches or faith-based organizations who want tools to unite their teams and have a solid foundation when interpersonal conflict arises. There is power in being known and in knowing others, yet we often make judgements and assumptions instead of taking time to listen to their stories and begin the process of understanding one another. This workshop will unite participants through story-telling and equip them with tools to have hard conversations by practicing spiritual listening and other contemplative practices.
Tools you will walk away with
Spiritual Listening
Learn the practice and art of spiritual listening.
Examen
Gain knowledge on question-based conversation instead of assumption-based conversation.
Contemplative Prayer
Utilizing contemplative prayer practices for reflection and growth.
Self-reflection
Be equipped with tools for self-reflection after hearing someone else’s story.
Identifying biases
Identifying biases and assumptions of the “other.”
breath Prayer
Remaining in a listening presence by practicing breath prayer.
Testimonials
Wondering if this retreat is for you?
Good fit IF
You are a small-to-medium size church or organization.
You want to unify a group of people that are divided over political, religious, or other divides.
You want to equip your team with tools to navigate the inevitable interpersonal conflict that arises as humans work together.
You want to enrich the spiritual lives of your group by introducing them to spiritual practices that can help transform them from the inside out.
Not a good fit IF
You are a megachurch or an organization with hundreds of employees.
There is a current conflict within your group that requires mediation.
You want us to come in and solve the problems within your group.
You want a quick-fix solution to a conflict problem.
“This is a really helpful way to open people up and enable them to be more aware of the importance of listening to God and others.”
Joel Fredrickson
