Retreat Yourself and Recharge Your Soul
A guided contemplative retreat is similar to a preached retreat in that conferences are given, in most cases at the beginning of each day, with the rest of the day free for contemplation and reflection on the talk. A special theme is the basis of the retreat and is expanded on throughout its duration. In some cases, the presenter will allow specific times for a retreatant to meet with her or him to discuss how the Spirit touches the individual based on the day’s presentation. This type of retreat is another great option for those who want some guidance during their retreat experience but who still want adequate time for prayer, rest, reflection, and contemplation.
Each of these retreats offers opportunities to listen to God in prayer.
Practical suggestions
Following some practical steps beforehand helps to ensure a successful retreat experience. First, leave the computer and your work behind. A retreat is not a time to catch up on e-mail or surf the Web. Turn off your cell phone and make a commitment not to use it unless necessary. You are now in contact with another cell…the cell of your room. Instead of calling others, give God a call.
A good spiritual book or two can help guide you through your retreat and inspire reflection. More helpful for many people is a journal. Journaling is one of the best tools we can use on a retreat. Simply write about your day-to-day experience with God. Write a letter to God, and you might be surprised to “read” God’s response.
Many retreatants have expressed their gratitude to me for being able to spend quiet time with God and to receive insights into their spiritual life. The silence and solitude allowed them time to reconnect with God. Those who are too busy with the everyday stresses of life have found peace and rest while on retreat. Those who have lost loved ones have found comfort in the loving arms of Jesus. All leave knowing that God is a loving, merciful, and forgiving God.