The idea of a retreat is nothing new or radical. The impulse to retire from the confusion of complex life, to break away from well-worn habit, to escape the demands of ordinary life and to seek a place apart to rest, reflect and renew has always lain at the heart of the spiritual journey.
Within the Judeo-Christian tradition, we see how Jesus often withdrew to a quiet place to pray and urged his disciples to go apart and reflect about their mission.
Time away to look back and remember is one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the activity of God, to discover the meaning of life's experiences, to find hints of new directions.
Making a retreat, like most spiritual experiences, is a journey into solitude, then back into the human circle.
KINDS OF RETREATS
Private Retreats provide time for you to be with God in a supportive and contemplative atmosphere. They are uniquely designed by each individual retreatant. Private rooms are set aside at Rolling Ridge for individuals who wish to spend a day, or several days, on their own. Food service may be available if other groups are in residence.
Directed Retreats are more structured and guided, with the help of a spiritual director who is a listening and supportive person. The frequency of direction sessions vary at the request of each individual retreatant. Rev. Larry Peacock, our Executive Director, is available to help you set up a directed retreat.
Group Retreats are programs offered by Rolling Ridge or other groups to which an individual comes and joins in the agenda of the day. These retreats usually include worship, silence, sharing, input and meals. Programs offered by Rolling Ridge can be found on our Programs page and our Day Apart Series page. Group retreats can range from 10 people to 70 people. If your group would like to have help planning a retreat or you need leadership for a group retreat, contact our office.
Rolling Ridge Retreat and Conference Center
660 Great Pond Road, North Andover, MA 01845
email: thestaff@rollingridge.org Tel: 978-682-8815