Spiritual Retreats: A Guide to Slowing Down to be with God by yours truly was first published in May 2016. I have never celebrated a book birthday before and thought it would be fun to revisit this book, its message and its birth. Happy Birthday, Spiritual Retreat little book!
Spiritual Retreats: A Guide to Slowing Down to be with God came about through a conversation with a friend who was fascinated by my annual attending retreats compounded by my enthusiasm for the practice of going on retreat. She hesitated to go, not knowing what to expect and if this practice was worth her time.
I did explain many of the details to her, but then realized others may also feel that way. I recalled my first time on retreat: how anxious I was about the locations, the agenda, what to do with all that silence.
So I outlined a book. Spiritual Retreats: A Guide to Slowing Down to be with God is small, only 54 pages, easy to read, and divided into three parts:
*Before the retreat
*During the retreat
*After the retreat
Many readers found the “after the retreat” part to be beneficial since we often return home changed to a home and routine unchanged and still chaotic. What is your re-entry plan and realistic expectation?
This book through its practical tips, resources, blessings, stories, and inspiration will motivate others to put aside the busyness, clamor, and stresses of life to be with God. “Come with me by yourselves to a quiet place and get some rest.”
One of my proudest moments for this book is when a retreat center bought multiple copies to put in the retreat rooms for use of those attending sessions there. Humbling and honoring.
Here is the ending blessing from the book and maybe its words will bless you today too:
Blessing
Touch your eyes – may you continue to focus on what matters and see God in all things.
Touch your ears – Listen deeply for God’s gentle voice of love.
Hold your head – Keep learning and finding God in daily life.
Feel your breath – May deep breaths slow you down, quiet your soul and give your rest.
Look at your hands – May your hands hold books to study, pens to write and witness to others in service.
Wiggle your toes – May your feet take you on new adventures with God as he shows you how to live and love.
Touch your heart – God lives here within you and around you. May you experience his voice reminded you that you are his beloved child.
May your journey continue…
Do you participate in the spiritual practice of retreats (any type of retreats, slowing down with God)? Why or why not?
thank you jean…i have your retreat book and love it…i seem to be called at this time of year to go on retreat and ready to book in a couple of weeks…usually i stay at a hotel for 2 nights on the water…why do i go on retreat??..God calls me and wants to be with me and i Him…simple as that..
peace
You are so sweet, Pat! Thank you. Blessings on your retreat and let’s keep each other in prayer for our time with God.
I lead a contemplative writing group at our church and this summer the theme is Summer Spirituality, and I think your retreat book will provide much inspiration.
What a neat idea. If I can help or add anything, please let me know. Thanks!!
Praise God for inspiring you to write this book, through that conversation with your friend, Jean. How wonderful that it has already ministered to many people!
Thank you sweet Nancy and thank you for always being so supportive and encouraging.
Now I need to reread this amazing book, too, Jean. Physically, I can’t see myself going on any retreats in the near future as I am needed here, but I can certainly continue to indulge in quiet time and ask God to help me rest in Him.
Blessings!
Thanks Martha, Yes yes you can retreat at home too. Lots of the same elements. I too plan to reread this book as I prepare for my upcoming retreat. Resting and listening to God can happen anywhere thankfully!