Retreat Groups
About
The best source for understanding the process of a Retreat Group is to talk to someone you know who is currently in a group.
Participation in a Retreat Group is more “felt’ than “telt”. ie the value is to experience rather than to explain. However, having said that, the following is an attempt to introduce potential members to the concept of Retreats.
The beginning of The Retreat Group
Retreats began in the mid 70’s as a grassroots movement. The Holy Spirit initiated a restlessness within the hearts and minds of a few noble saints who set themselves apart to hear what God was saying for people in ministry. Out of this search, Renewal Retreats were born.
The typical Retreat is a four-day annual live-in gathering of approximately eight participants who have committed themselves to a three year cycle. ie three Retreats over two years.
The focus for the first phase is related to Personal Renewal/Restoration
The second on Relational Renewal/Restoration
The third on Structural/Systems Renewal/Restoration
Obviously, there will be some overlap of these three areas.
The primary agenda is to explore what Kingdom Renewal (or Restoration) looks like in the above three areas, and how that might be experienced in the real world.
Each group sets its own contract and way of functioning within the Movement’s core set of values. Each group decides its course on the basis of need and insight.
The flow and significance of the Retreat unfolds as each participant tells their story in his/her own way. From the story will come insight and/or affirmation and/or challenge. Over the years the Holy Spirit has initiated life changing choices and/or provided valuable support through the simple telling of story. Renewal and/or Restoration emerges!
At the end of three years, the group multiplies in order for others to participate.
Facilitators attend an annual Training Event. This is a time of visioning, accountability and equipping.
The best participants are those who have a conviction that God is calling them to a deeper, clearer and cleaner way of being. This conviction is sometimes called “an ache for reality”.
Consider this your invitation to participate in a significant faith community adventure!
The Retreat Movement.