Dear Friends,
I’m writing to you as you consider registering for the Annual Spring Retreat to be held on Zoom from April 17th-23rd, 2023. The purpose of this letter is to insure that you understand the nature of this retreat and that you are prepared to enter fully into the retreat process.
The retreat is highly experiential. In addition to meditation and traditional spiritual practices, we practice the process of contemplative inquiry – a spoken process done in dyads, triads, and in guided small groups. If you are new to contemplative inquiry, it will be important to become familiar with the practice in order to ensure that you are comfortable participating fully.
For those new to the practice of inquiry or who have other questions, we will hold orientation sessions in advance of the retreat on Zoom. This can also be a time to learn about other practices such as Zikr if these are new to you. You will receive an invitation for these sessions closer to the retreat dates.
An effective spiritual retreat takes us beyond our everyday vantage point, and therefore you may find yourself in new territory. This can be both thrilling and disorienting at times. Completing the Interest Form indicates that you understand the nature of spiritual transformation, and this feels right for you at this time.
Warmly,
Gulbadan Vila
Registrar, Annual Spring Retreat