Theme: Slow Down, Touch Earth: A Contemplative Clay Experience

In this retreat we will be invited to slow down, touch the clay of the Earth, take a breath and remember who we are.  

“Because clay is a part of nature’s cycle, it links us with a larger unified field of interconnection with all of life….  Ancient humans knew themselves to be part of a living network, an organic whole… We seem to have lost our sense of connection with each other and with the earth as the unified field in which we are interdependent with all things” (Marjory Bankson, The Soulwork of Clay).

Guided through story, simple exercises with clay and wandering the Dayspring grounds, participants will be led to open themselves to the natural world and invited into a deeper connection to the Earth that sustains us.   We are of the Earth and Earth is in our hands.  All are welcome and no previous experience with clay is necessary. 

Leader: Rev. Jean Brown pastor, potter, photographer and pollinator is giving shape to Earthen Hands Gathering at Dayspring.  Through Earthen Hands she is inviting connection with those drawn to God in nature and inspiring the changes needed to be in right relationship with Earth, Spirit and one another. 

Weekend retreats run Friday dinner through Sunday lunch. The silence begins Friday night after dinner when the leader opens the retreat and introduces the theme. The leader usually offers brief morning and evening reflections on Saturday. The silence ends after breakfast Sunday morning with a time of sharing and worship, followed by lunch and departure.

The cost for weekend retreats is $300.  A $150 deposit is required to register.

Dinner on Friday at 7 pm is the first official gathering. You are welcome to arrive and settle in between 3:30 and 6:30 pm on Friday. The retreat will end by 2 pm on Sunday.  Please plan to stay for the entire retreat.