Advent Retreat
“Come by yourselves to a secluded place and rest for a while.” —Mark 6:31
WHAT IS IT?
St. James’ Advent Retreat is an opportunity for us, in the midst of the busiest time of the year, to find rest.
As Richard Foster writes, “When all around us is chaos and confusion, deep within, we know stability and serenity. … While a thousand frustrations seek to distract us, we remain focused and attentive. This is the fruit of The Prayer of Rest.”
We will invite the presence of God through times of solitude, times of silence, and times of spiritual study or reflection.
In addition, spiritual directors the Rev. Susan Hill and Matt Leaycraft will be available for you to try out the practice of Spiritual Direction (recognizing God’s presence and voice within your personal life circumstances ).
WHEN IS IT?
Sunday, December 8 afternoon (4:00 p.m. check-in) through Tuesday, December 10 with departure after lunch. You can plan on being back in Manhattan at or before 5:00 p.m.
WHERE IS IT?
Trinity Retreat Center in West Cornwall, will be our secluded, quiet place of natural beauty, nestled along a gentle river with long walking paths, farm-to-table chef prepared meals, private suites, and many serene settings to sit and hear the inner voice of God’s Spirit.
LOGISTICS
Trinity Retreat Center’s address is 79 Lower River Road, West Cornwall, CT.
Transportation to and from TRC is not included in the cost of the retreat. Driving or carpooling with someone is highly recommended. Depending on the demand, we may rent a van and share the cost among the passengers.
Alternatively, you may take the MTA from Grand Central to Wassaic, New York (a three-hour trip).
We will arrange for a car to pick you up at the station, approximately 20 minutes from the Retreat Center.
COST
The cost is $330 for single room (two nights, six meals) and programming. If you and another attendee want to share a room, the cost is $280/person.
All meals included; vegetarian options available. TRC is unable to accommodate other food allergies, but a guest refrigerator is available for personal food.
Full payment is due by November 7. Checks can be made payable to St. James’ with “Advent Retreat” in the memo line, or you may pay via our online portal and select “Advent Retreat” from the dropdown menu.
Contact the Rev. Matt Oprendek with questions.
El Camino de Santiago de Compostela
May 21-28, 2025
The Camino has existed as a Christian pilgrimage for well over 1,000 years. A group of parishioners will meet together in Spain, and spend 7 days walking from Sarria to Santiago (around 72 miles) with evening meals and devotionals included.
Included:
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All accommodations in 3- and 4-star boutique inns with private baths (single rooms)
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Breakfast and dinners (with wine)
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Your bags are transported from town to town
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Bilingual guide available each day (with transportation) in case of emergency
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Nightly gathering for worship led by St. James’ Clergy with devotional guide
Not included:
Transportation to/from Sarria, Spain (will we offer travel recommendations)
Schedule:
Parties meet on Wednesday, May 21, in the evening, and begin walking on May 22. We will finish on May 28.
Payment:
Deposit: due November 1
Second payment: due January 31
Final payment due: April 11
Contact the Rev. Matt Oprendek to express your interest in going on this trip. There are only fifteen spots!
Social Justice Pilgrimage
February 12-16, 2025
A Pilgrimage to Highlight Racial Equity and Social Justice
Join the clergy of St. James’ to explore our country’s history of racial justice and equity. We will visit Birmingham, Montgomery, and Selma, Alabama, and spend time in contemplation and prayer. Follow the link below for more information, and contact the Rev. Marisa Sifontes with questions.