Summer Retreat 2022 In-Person!
August 12-14, 2022
We will gather in Trilogy Lodge, a dorm-style lodge that sleeps up to 20. Wildflower walks, bonfires, relaxed workshops and worship circles make up this weekend "back to the land" on the 400+ acres of woodland and lake within the spirit-filled place called Ronora.
Chef Audy of Souls Ground Cafe in Benton Harbor will cater our delicious, gourmet vegan meals!
We will enjoy spending time together on the back deck of Trilogy Lodge, exploring, relaxing, drumming, singing and communing with nature and each other.
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All registrants must be fully vaccinated for the COVID 19 virus.
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Register online
***As a part of the registration form, you will be prompted to attach an image of your vaccination card, certificate or other document as proof of vaccination for COVID-19 virus.
If you attended a retreat in person since Summer 2021 we have proof of your vaccination on file. If you want to attach an updated version of your vaccination card, you may do that.
A registration confirmation will not be sent until proof of vaccination is received.
See you at Ronora!
Spring 2022 Retreat
"Let Our Souls Sing"
Pilgrim Park, June 3-5
Pam Blevins-Hinkle was our keynote!
Our theme “Let Our Souls Sing” comes from our desire as sisters to come together and raise our voices in song. These past two years we’ve had to cope with social isolation and loneliness. Now we can meet face to face, spending time together on the deck of Pilgrim’s Park conference center. We took time to explore, relax, drum, sing and commune with nature and each other.
Pam Blevins-Hinkle keynoted! It is hard to believe it has been 10 years since this amazing woman was our keynote - choral conductor, song-leader, arts administrator, flutist, improviser, and lover of sacred song. Pam also led a workshop in the afternoon.
Following our keynote’s workshop we offered a workshop on making a besom. Dana Lusk, who joined the The Connection’s Council this year taught us how to make this traditional style of broom. A besom can be used in cleansing ceremonies to sweep out the negative energy in the air rather than sweeping the floor. These brooms are also used in handfasting ceremonies where the couple will jump the broom as a symbol of entering a new stage of life and leaving behind the old. Besoms make great housewarming and wedding gifts, symbolizing starting fresh and new, leaving behind your old dirt. You’ll be making your besom from treasures you bring (ribbons, dried flowers, pentacle, crystals, or any other special items to decorate your besom). You can collect leaves, twigs, and other “found” materials from your walks at Pilgrim Park. Dana Lusk brought materials that you can use to build and decorate your besom.
Remember to bring drums (and musical instruments if you like), treasures to weave into your besom, and something to place on an altar.