Making Space for the Spirit: Developing a Contemplative Christian Retreat Center

How do we create places and spaces for deepening our spiritual lives? For slowing down so we can notice what really matters to us? For taking time to attend to our own healing and growth? For meeting Jesus in life-transforming ways? And how do we keep these places affordable so that they are accessible to everyone who is seeking--not just those who can afford the high cost? How do we create these spaces and how do we sustain them? These are the questions this book seeks to address as it considers closely and personally the creation and development of one such space. So join me as we listen in on some special stories hearing how one community held realized and sustained their vision to make space for the Spirit inspiring us to do the same. In the midst of our busy demanding and pragmatic world a new wind is blowing. This wind of the Spirit is hauntingly invitational. It invites us to come away to be still to be contemplative to be inwardly revitalized. Jennifer Graves winsomely tells the story of two such places on Bowen Island--Rivendell and the Hermitages. In this story may you hear the invitation of the Spirit. --Charles Ringma Theologian; Franciscan Tertiary; author Of Martyrs Monks and Mystics Rivendell is a tranquil spiritual beautiful retreat center made unique by the volunteer community who makes it accessible to anyone seeking a place of transcendence and intimacy with the Divine. This book not only tells the story but explains how the volunteer community functions so successfully in opening space to retreat attendees thus inviting others to follow the path they have created over the last fifteen years. --Irene Alexander Spiritual Director; Formator Brisbane Australia Rivendell evokes a longing for rest peace and healing. In this personal reflection Graves tells the story of one such Rivendell in our world. This Rivendell grew from a clear vision of spirituality rooted in the gospel of Jesus Christ. And because its roots are deep in the gospel the realization of this vision offers a space and a spaciousness in which rest peace and healing occur. --Jonathan R. Wilson Author Rooted in the contemplative tradition [Graves] brings to these pages the spiritual integrity and practice that is the lifeblood of Rivendell and the assurance that its nurturing presence will be here for many generations to come. What a blessing! --Tim Scorer Board Member Rivendell Retreat Jennifer Kerr Graves is cofounder of the Rivendell Hermitage on Bowen Island BC and current Chair of the Rivendell Society Board.