IV Spiritual Formation Retreats

Introductory Blessing by Kahu Moanike’ala Nanod-Sitch

A word of blessing to start your retreat.

Examen Reimagined by Bethany Givens Blankespoor

For this particular examen, you are invited to narrow in on one memory from the last month. As we spend some time paying attention to that challenging moment and our response in it, ask Jesus what we need from him to respond to a particular challenge in a way that is more aligned with the Spirit’s work in our life.

Visio Divina: ”Barnacles” by Bette Dickinson

Visio Divina is latin for, "divine seeing." It is a way of reflecting on art as prayer. In this piece, Bette Dickinson, the artist will lead you through a guided meditation with prompts followed by some reflective music. While the music plays, consider journaling your prayers in response and hitting "pause" if you need more time.

Lectio Divina on Acts 3 by Rev. Phil Bowling-Dyer

A traditional lectio divina on Acts 3:1-10

Guided Reflection on Acts 3 by Rev. Phil Bowling-Dyer

Enter the text of Acts 3:2-6 with your imagination from the vantage point of the beggar. Rest in God's loving gaze upon you in this text.

Intimacy: Introduction by Bethany Givens Blankespoor

Make the most of your Intimacy in the Waiting retreat day with this Introduction by Bethany Givens Blankespoor. Through these 4 retreats, we will explore how God’s Spirit invites us into intimacy, forms our character, goes with us in mission, and fuels our ministry of reconciliation and justice.

Intimacy: Interview soundbite with Natalia Kohn Rivera

To prime your heart for this retreat, listen to this soundbite from our interview with Natalia Kohn Rivera as she shares how she grew in intimacy with Christ through waiting seasons in her life.

Intimacy: Examen led by Bethany Givens Blankespoor

Reflect with God on the last month through this examen led by Bethany Givens Blankespoor, Spiritual Formation Specialist in Mid-Atlantic Region.

Intimacy: Psalm 84 Lectio Divina by Jovin Adjeitey

Psalm 84 Modified Lectio Divina read by Jovin Adjeitey. Sit in a comfortable place and allow the text to lead you into deeper intimacy with Jesus.

Intimacy: Visio Divina, ”Home” by Bette Dickinson

Reflect on this painting, "Home" by Bette Dickinson as you are led in a contemplative exercise called Visio Divina, Latin for "divine seeing." Allow this painting and meditation to lead you deeper into intimacy with Jesus.