2009 ANNUAL GATHERING OF RETREAT CENTER PROFESSIONALS

GLOBAL COMMUNICATIONS FOR GLOBAL NETWORKING
Looking In, Up and Out

May 11–14,2009
at Spirit in the Desert
Carefree, Arizona

Colleagues joined from retreat centers across North and South America as we learn about what is happening in each others' worlds. Special guest, German Zilstra, coordinator of the Global OIKOSNET Network of 300+ centers around the world, will join us from Uruguay.

Spirit in the DesertWe talked about what we are noticing in ourselves, in our communities, and around the globe. What are the needs and issues we are trying to respond to in our programming at each of our centers? Are there common issues we all share? Are there new ways of being as centers together?

Spirit in the DesertSpirit in the Desert was the perfect setting for reflection, discussion, discovery and growth. Located in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, north of Phoenix, Arizona, it is surrounded by mountains and amazing desert landscapes, and offers hiking trails, a labyrinth and pool for times of relaxation together.

Our time together included an opportunity to communicate by satellite with colleagues in centers in the United Kingdom and was joined in person by colleagues from the Latin American Regional Association. We:

  • Spirit in the DesertShared concerns arising from our roles as retreat center leaders from particular settings and situations,
  • Explored ways to strengthen ties and relationships between and among North American centers and their staffs with the hope of building a stronger network of support and collaboration,
  • Had opportunities to hear and learn about the work of centers in other parts of the world,
  • Took time to relax, experience the desert through walks, and explore the facility at Spirit in the Desert.

Oikosnet North America (ONA) is the regional association of Oikosnet, a global ecumenical network of Christian Laity Centres, Academies, and Movements of Social Concern working for just, participatory, sustainable, and inclusive communities.

Learn more about Spirit in the Desert Retreat Center

 

The ONA Annual Gathering, open to ONA members and non-members alike, is the time when professionals dedicated to faith-based retreat work meet face to face. Through enriching programming and thoughtful discussion, they return to their work enlivened and supported with new ideas for their work of spirituality for global survival, education for global community, and action for global justice.