Contemplating the Cross: November 16-19, 2023

Location: Emery House in West Newbury
Thursday 6:00 pm – Sunday 2:00 pm, November 16-19, 2023
The Rev. adwoa Wilson, with Emery House Brothers

Our cultural conditioning tells us that suffering is, at best, an unfortunate weigh station on the path to progress, from which to fearfully draw back, quickly pass over, or urgently eradicate. It is not a place to dwell with or discern God. It holds no wisdom. Contrary to this, St. Paul sees in the cross the very wisdom and power of God. Can this really be so in the areas of our own failure, pain, or marginalization?

This retreat is for those who wish to examine their theologies about suffering. Through the companionship of various contemplative theologians and scripture, we will bring a stable gaze on some particular area of our own suffering that we have habitually avoided. We ask can God be contemplated even in this? If so, what wisdom is waiting to reveal itself to us as courageous contemplatives of our own experiences of the cross?

The Rev. adwoa Wilson is an Episcopal priest and has been an Oblate of the Episcopal Order of Julian of Norwich since 2010. Through parish ministry, retreats, community chaplaincy, and teaching she enjoys supporting spiritual formation to help ordinary Christians strengthen their connection with God, one another, and the beauty and needs of the world. She watches birds, does amateur pottery, and is nourished by her many godchildren and most four-footed friends. She resides in Vermont.

We strive to make retreat time available to all who seek it, and so the suggested fees cover only a portion of the expenses for making our facilities available. As such, we are always grateful for any additional donations in support of our retreat ministry.

$465.00 per person for this program retreat
$230.00 for students/young adults

Suggested fees can be reduced in cases of financial hardship.

Reservations are confirmed only upon receipt of a non-refundable deposit equal to 50% of your total fee.