At my breakfast table at the Women’s Retreat last weekend, we began talking about why community matters. One person observed that when we truly believe each person is an image-bearer of Christ — and that we each experience and express God differently — then part of how we come to know God is by seeing how He shines through others. God is fully present in each of us, and at the same time, we learn more of who He is as we witness His life and love expressed through others. As Stephen said in his sermon a couple of weeks ago, “there is no Christ-like becoming without first a Christ-like belonging.”
I think “retreat” is a bit of a misnomer for what actually happens when we go away together — whether it’s a group of women, men, teenagers, or people traveling to Assisi. Yes, there is space for rest or solitude, but when we’re together, we’re doing the opposite of retreating — we’re moving toward one another. An antonym for retreating is braving, which feels like a perfect description of what happens when we choose to spend extended time together: away from the comforts of home, sharing our real selves with people we might typically only see on Sundays. Throughout our weekend Cari taught about offering our true selves — not performing or presenting a curated version — and welcoming the true self of the person in front of us, exactly as they are.
I saw so much braving at the Women’s Retreat last weekend, and so much beautiful connection that grew from that willingness to be fully present and authentic. What struck me most was how much courage, joy, and depth of relationship can emerge when we simply say yes to being together. And there was so much roaring laughter. The sound of a group of women laughing together is one of the most fabulous sounds on earth — you all are hilarious, wholehearted, and a gift to one another. I love being a part of this community.
Save the date for next year! The 2027 Women’s Retreat will be January 29–31, 2027.
In joyful community,
Holly
———————————————————
Men of Platt Park, let’s get our “braving” on!
It’s so encouraging to hear the stories already bubbling up of what God did through the opportunity last weekend as so many women got away together. Fellas, you’re invited to get away with us for our Men’s Retreat, April 17-19 at the YMCA of the Rockies in Estes Park.
I fully believe God has something great prepared for us as well. Mark your calendars and click here to register right now — the Early Bird Discount is only available through February 22nd!
Peace and all blessing,
James