The Heart of Awakening
Weeklong Option: May 12-19
Weekend Option: May 12-14
Our world cries out for healing, for peace. Our spiritual practice reminds us that true peace isn't to be found "out there" but is already imminent for each of us in our own being. In this retreat we will practice allowing our hearts and minds to open unconditionally to life and to our experience just as it is. We will inquire deeply into the forces that constrict our minds and hearts and that keep us from resting in the natural kindness, care and compassion for all that arises when the mind is at peace.
This retreat will be an opportunity for you to establish, re-discover, or deepen your contemplative practice. It is suitable for beginners as well as seasoned meditators. Through the skilled guidance of our teachers, you will be supported in exploring, healing, and transforming your relationship with yourself and all of creation.
So that participants may fully experience the benefits of the teachings and our practice, the retreatants will maintain silence, except for question/answer periods and meetings with the teachers. We will alternate sitting practice with walking meditation, and daily mindful movement classes will be offered.
A collection of information on our residential retreats, including a link and map for the Serenity Ridge Retreat Center, travel directions, short descriptions on what to expect on retreat, what to bring and other details and advice can be found at
IMCC's residential retreat resources page.
Please note:
Serenity Ridge is currently expanding to offer newer, larger facilities for retreatants. As such, in some areas of the grounds, earth has been moved to build the foundation for the new structure. There is still plenty of space on the 20 acres campus that can be enjoyed away from the construction area.
Construction takes place on weekdays (M-F), between 7:30am-3:30pm. Our teachers and staff will do everything possible to make your retreat as comfortable as possible, and accommodate your needs.
Registration Fees and Accommodations
The type of accommodation you request will determine the cost of your attendance, which you will select on the registration page. (Click the 'register' button to the left on this page.) The cost is inclusive of all of your meals and snacks, tea and coffee.
Regular Registration: A 50% deposit will be due upon registration. The balance will be due by April 14, 2017. Your registration is not complete until your 50% deposit has been received.
Room assignments are on a first come, first served basis, and assignments are dependent upon availability. Early registration assures best room assignment.
For those camping, Serenity Ridge has a number of gravel tent pads in the woods north of the meditation hall: in the past, tents pitched have remained dry even after successive days of rain. Indoor showers and restrooms are located about fifty yards from the camping area.
Financial Aid and Contributions
As you know, expenses for retreats are increasing, while personal incomes often are not. This means that some people who want to come to an IMCC retreat cannot afford the cost. It is our intention, when possible, not to turn anyone away for financial reasons.
If you are in need of financial support from IMCC, please see the information and application on our residential retreat resources page. Shared rooms are available to those requiring financial assistance.
If you would like to make a donation to the IMCC Fred Meyer Scholarship Fund in order to assist those in need, you may do so when you register. Contributions are tax deductible; we will provide you with a statement of your contribution upon request.
Refund Policy
If your plans change, please notify us as soon as possible as there may be people on a waiting list for the retreat. Requests for refunds will be considered before April 14, 2017. We are unable to offer refunds after that date due to fees that we must pay in advance to the retreat center. Refunds will be less a $50 cancellation fee. All cancellation fees support our scholarship fund. There will be no refund if you decide to leave the retreat early.
Dana
Retreat fees cover the cost of room, board, and facility fees. No part of the fee covers payment to the teachers. Teachers are dependent on dana, which are contributions from those attending the retreat. You will have an opportunity to make a dana payment to the teachers at the end of the retreat.
Please note:
If you are in the midst of a life trauma, emotional upheaval or instability that might require individual support beyond our scheduled meetings with teachers, the retreat format may not be a good match at this time. Should you have any questions about this, please contact the retreat manager.
Retreat Manager
Please direct any questions regarding the registration process or the retreat to our Retreat Manager, Laura DeVault, at info.imccspring17@gmail.com.
Location:
Serenity Ridge Retreat Center
554 Drumheller Ln
Shipman, VA 22971
Map