This zoom offering is a presentation on Thomas Merton by Brother Paul Quenon who was a novice under Thomas Merton. Brother Paul has been a monk of the Abbey of Gethsemane for 62 years.  His Novitiate formation was under Thomas Merton.  His latest book How to Be, is a collection of letters with journalist Judith […]

The Centering Prayer Introductory Workshop teaches the method and background of Centering Prayer, a silent, open hearted prayer; a movement of deepening relationship with God.  "Be still and know that I am God"  Ps. 46:10.   The workshop, led by Contemplative Outreach commissioned presenters, includes four 20 minute presentations and two periods of Centering Prayer. Following […]

A haunting novel spanning several generations, The Seed Keeper follows a Dakota (Native American) family's struggle to preserve their way of life, and their sacrifices to protect what matters most.  Weaving together the voices of four indelible women, the Seed Keeper is a beautifully told story of reawakening, of remembering our original relationship to the […]

A haunting novel spanning several generations, The Seed Keeper follows a Dakota (Native American) family's struggle to preserve their way of life, and their sacrifices to protect what matters most.  Weaving together the voices of four indelible women, the Seed Keeper is a beautifully told story of reawakening, of remembering our original relationship to the […]

Livestream Event with Diane Wilson, award winning author of the novel, The Seed Keeper.  Join us for reflection and participation on the relationship between humans, other animals, trees, plants, and all Earth elements through the indigenous principle "we are all related." This event is in collaboration with Community of Communities which includes several retreat centers […]

Jesus said, "I have come so that you may have life, life in abundance."  what are those things we might do - amid life's busyness - to respond to that promise, to do our part, so that - deepening our purpose and passion and rooted in Whose we are - we not only have life […]

Loss weaves its way into our lives in multiple ways, through death and nondeath losses.   Grief offers a process of healing that acknowledges loss, sometimes missing in certain types of loss, and opens a space for hope to grow.  This day will offer a safe place to develop a deeper trust in grief as our […]

In our intensely active,  mobile and socially-connected society, we seem to have lost the ability to pause or maintain a sense of peace.  Yet our lives today plead for a greater contemplative calm.  For all who feel overworked or overwhelmed, there are ways to pause periodically and still be productive.  Drawing from our ancient Catholic […]

You do not need to consider yourself a seasoned writer to attend this writer's retreat. This is a gathering for those who enjoy writing, even if it's only in your journal. By writing together and sharing words so much arises.
Each day will be a rhythm of writing practice, sharing, music, film and poetry. We'll use writing prompts to discover what moves the heart and what we are being called to embrace for the sake of the world.

Paula D'Arcy is a writer, international retreat leader, and the founder and President of Red Bird Foundation. Red Bird Foundation supports the growth and spiritual development of all who want to live with a more open heart, including those in limited circumstances such as individuals in prison or those in great need, and those invested in the healing of this world. Paula is a former psychotherapist whose personal tragedy led her to reach out to others. Through her retreats and publications, she is a beacon of hope as we encounter challenges and grief throughout our life. Among her best-selling books are Gift of the Red Bird, Waking Up to This Day, and Stars at Night.