2014-2015 oasis program guide

Sustaining Contemplative Connections

2014-2015 Program Guide

Oasis

Over 25 years of creating community as we

educate and resource people in contemplation and

spiritual direction.

… ahhh …

The cover image is called a “wordle.” It includes numerous words arranged in a random way, different sizes and colors. This wordle consists of words used to describe Oasis.

You are invited to fill this page with your own wordle. What words would you use to describe your experience of Oasis, spiritual direction, prayer and the contemplative way?

Wordle Exercise

There are various online tools to use to create a wordle. We used

www.wordle.net/create.

What’s Inside… A Word from Our Executive Director ....................... 4

Green Space for the Soul Update ................................. 5

Oasis Wellsprings ........................................................ 6

Keeping Connected....................................................... 7

YEAR-LONG PROGRAMS

Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides...................... 8

NEW! Exploring the Hybrid Model ............................ 9

Deepening Year for Direction Ministries................... 10

Breath and Prayer....................................................... 11

Men4Directions ......................................................... 12

NEW! Every Day Contemplation (6 months) ............ 13

DAYS OF RETREAT

A Mindful Approach to Stress Reduction .................. 14

What Now? A Retreat for Women............................. 15

HOPE through the Seasons (series)........................... 16

“By the Secret Ladder, Disguised” ............................. 17

Love in a Letter: The Lost Art of Letter-writing ........ 18

Walking and Talking the Labyrinth ........................... 19

Music Metamorphosis............................................... 20

Poetry as Prayer: Wendell Berry ................................ 21

Prayer Basket Retreat: Creating Bali Rag Baskets.... 22

Thomas Merton Retreat Day..................................... 23

Rediscovering Your Authentic Direction:

Self-Care for Clergy (series) ................ 24

Sharing Your Story, Giving a Nudge .......................... 25

Calendar .............................................................. 26 Information/Registration Page.................................. 27

"My spiritual journey

has been deepened by this program. As I

face mid-life it has

given me the

opportunity to develop a part of me

that I always knew

was there - but never

gave myself the freedom to explore."

~ Catherine Campanaro

Find Us! www.oasismin.org Oasis Ministries for Spiritual Development 419 Deerfield Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011

Share Us!

From the Executive Director

From Where I Sit: Musings from Rev. Cindy Garis

So often in life and in spiritual direction we speak of seeking or needing balance. Recently I was reflecting on how balance does not necessarily mean complete stillness. While in a yoga class, we were invited to ‘tree pose.’ This is where you stand on one foot with the other foot on the side of the opposite knee. The instructor reminded us that your grounded foot never stops moving. The muscles in your foot are constantly making small adjustments to try and bring your body to balance. It is that way in our every day life as well.

Another image for seeking balance might be a see-saw or teeter-totter. The constant up and down of this playground equipment is actually what makes it enjoyable. If you are always up or always down it can get very boring. Allow this image to capture life for a moment; let balance be in the motion, not solely in the completely still. This can sound like an odd invitation from someone whose work celebrates stillness and invites people every day to quiet themselves. However, I believe that this is the very journey of our lives and of the life of Oasis. As an organization, we, too, have the ups and downs of life and of seemingly always seeking balance. Being the Great Equalizer, God keeps our teeter-totter in motion with help from YOU. Our participants, staff, volunteers and supporters are like the foot plants in ‘tree pose.’ You keep us grounded with purpose. Our 2014-2015 year brings many exciting changes (movement, up and down). The most notable is that after 17 years of being at Kenbrook Camp just outside of Lebanon, our training programs will have a new home at Kirkridge Retreat Center in the Poconos. Additionally, we are expanding the idea of ‘Oasis is where you are’ through our new hybrid model for our spiritual direction training program (SDSG). Distance to travel to Kirkridge becomes less of a barrier when you make the trek only three times each year (see page 9) . The hybrid model also allows people to not only create contemplative community where they live, but it also asks participants to decide the day and time that best suits their group training. So for those who have said that the distance to travel and having class in the middle of the week were the primary barriers to the program—take another look! I trust that you will discover many opportunities in these pages to help you re-examine the balance in your life. Please do not hesitate to be in touch if you have questions in your discernment. Cindy

CELEBRATING OVER 25 YEARS

OF

DRAWING FROM THE WELL OF CHRIST CONTEMPLATIVELY

ACTIVELY

Green Space for the Soul—25th Anniversary Campaign

25th Anniversary Campaign Update

Because of your support for our

“Green Spaces for the Soul”

Campaign, we have received over

$45,000 in pledges and support,

have been able to give out over

$10,000 in scholarship assistance,

and have upgraded our office software, as well as expanded our program offerings to

include ‘distance learning’ through our new hybrid model (see p.9).

Would you like to be a part of this effort but have not had the time?

Make your pledge or gift at www.oasismin.org/GreenSpace.html

or call (717)737-8222 today!

www.oasismin.org/Wellsprings.htm

Oasis Wellsprings: Exploring the Ripples of the

Oasis Community

As we continue to move in numerous communities, Oasis desires to become a part of

yours and connect you with other contemplatives in your area. Please email [email protected] with your ideas, desires, suggestions about how we can

support the contemplative way in your community.

Wellsprings Guidelines

An Oasis Ministries Wellspring Event:

is a day event that is designed and led by a graduate of one of Oasis’s year-long programs. brings Oasis and contemplative practices to new places. is organized and carried out by the leader, with active support from Oasis staff and volunteers. Registration and fees/donations are decided by and handled by the leader rather than through the Oasis office. is publicized on the Oasis website and in Oasis mailings. takes place at a location of the leader’s choice. includes the distinctive features of Oasis programs: silence/prayer; contemplative content or activity; sharing within the gathered community. is acknowledged when presented as an Oasis Ministries Wellspring Event. provides and calls attention to additional information about Oasis and its programs is expected to “pay for itself;” fees or donations would cover facility and other costs. gives an opportunity for the leader to provide support for Oasis Ministries if a fee is charged for the event – there is an invitation to make a tithe to Oasis from the proceeds.

A Mindful Morning—an Oasis Wellsprings Event Led by Margaret Hardy Saturday, September 13, 2014, 9:30am – 12:30 (Register by Friday September 5, 2014)

Location: Severna Park MD (Annapolis area) Price: $10 - $25 as you are able To register: Contact Margaret at [email protected] Learn more at www.oasismin.org/Wellsprings.htm

What are these little

black boxes?

A QR code. It can be

scanned by a smart-

phone or tablet and can take you

directly to a website. Use them

throughout the Program Guide

for easy access and sharing.

Sustaining Ministry—Partnering with Oasis

Some ways we are keeping connected through developing partnerships: Partnering with Individuals * Resources to help find a spiritual director

* On-line community—find us on Facebook, sharing regional gatherings * Gatherings, dinners, reunions

Partnering with Congregations * Oasis retreats held in your church, see how at www.oasismin.org/Partners.htm

* Custom designed retreats for your faith community * Collaborative efforts to bring in special speakers * Pulpit supply, sharing Oasis on a Sunday morning, mission moments

Partnering with Judicatories/Denominational Governing Bodies

* Tailored retreats for clergy renewal, as well as spiritual direction for clergy * Displays and conference workshops * Ministerium gatherings

What’s your idea for how Oasis can sustain connections and become a partner in your community and on your personal journey?

Keeping Connected through

Developing Partnerships

Are you receiving our E-News? If so, you should be receiving news of upcoming Oasis

happenings, along with Meditative Moments, prayers,, and

free e-books, delivered to your Inbox at least twice a

month. If you are not receiving it but once were, make

sure we are not landing in your “Junk” folder. Let us know

of problems ([email protected]).

What?? You are not receiving our e-news?

This fall we will be e-sharing the reflections from our 25th

anniversary booklet. You will get to see our journey.

Join today www.oasismin.org/Join.htm

Did you know? This Program Guide is

designed so that each page

can be copied and used as

a flyer or half-page insert

in your church bulletin.

Keep Calm

and

Share On!

Learn more at

www.oasismin.org/MinistryPartners.html

Visit

www.oasismin.org/SDSG.htm

for more program details and to download a brochure. You may also request

a brochure by calling (717) 737-8222 or emailing [email protected].

New Location!

Spiritual Direction for

Spiritual Guides Expanding Attention and Intention

This two-year training program in spiritual direction begins with an opening two-day retreat in October and concludes with a two-day retreat

in May, with monthly day-long sessions each month in between.

Since 1990, Oasis has been teaching people the art of spiritual direction.

SDSG is especially suited to those who are seeking to deepen their practice of prayer and learn about being a spiritual companion to others. Through experiencing and practicing the disciplines of contemplative prayer, participants discover the richness of community, the intimacy of small

groups, and the depth of spiritual direction.

Year II Dates OPENING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Thursday, September 25, 2014 through 3:00 p.m., Friday, September 26, 2014 MONTHLY SESSIONS (Thursdays) 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Nov. 6, Dec. 4, 2014 Jan. 8, Feb. 5, Mar. 5, Apr. 9, 2015 CLOSING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Thursday, May 7, 2015 through 3:00 p.m., Friday, May 8, 2015

Year I Dates OPENING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2014 through 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2014 MONTHLY SESSIONS (Wednesdays) 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m., Nov. 5, Dec. 3, 2014 Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 4, Apr. 8, 2015 CLOSING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 5, 2015 through 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 6, 2015 Questions? Be in touch with

Rev. Glenn Mitchell, Director of Training

and Program for Oasis Ministries at

[email protected]

Location: Kirkridge Retreat Center 2495 Fox Gap Road

Bangor, PA 18013

www.kirkridge.org

Leadership: Glenn Mitchell, Nancy Bieber, Jo Ann Kunz, Melissa Stock, and Ruth Zeiders (bios available in SDSG brochure and on-line at

www.oasismin.org)

Have you heard about our new hybrid model?

Where Four or More are Gathered...

Did you hear? 4 people interested in receiving training in

spiritual direction +

3 visits to Kirkridge (opening retreat, January session, closing retreat)

+ 1 peer group leader provided by Oasis

with 5 monthly gatherings in your community

= Spiritual Direction Training where you are!

We already have a "distance learning" cohort beginning this Fall in collaboration with Princeton Seminary. This hybrid model allows for you to receive training in spiritual direction right where you are, with

people in your community. To learn more or to get a cohort in your

area, be in touch with Glenn Mitchell at [email protected].

Let us know where the next cohort should be: www.oasismin.org/HybridWithOasis.htm

“It has been decades since I’ve been among people who are on an intentional, passionate

spiritual journey. My spiritual growth has been immeasurably enhanced through this journey. I

could not be more grateful.”

--Leigh Pick

Deepening Year for Direction Ministries (DYDM) is a year-long program in continuing education consisting of two retreats and six monthly sessions for practicing spiritual directors who desire to deepen their discernment and enhance their direction skills in a contemplative approach to the art of spiritual direction. Topics explored this year include:

Resistance: its meaning and

message

Transference and counter-

transference

Developmental cycles in the

spiritual life

Loss and mourning: a

recurring experience

Addiction and co-dependency

Body wisdom and non-verbal

communication

Darkness, spiritual dryness,

and suffering DATES

OPENING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, September 30, 2014 through 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, October 1, 2014

MONTHLY SESSIONS (Wednesdays) 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Nov. 5, Dec. 3, 2014 Jan. 7, Feb. 4, Mar. 4, Apr. 8, 2015

CLOSING RETREAT 10:00 a.m., Tuesday, May 5, 2015 through 3:00 p.m., Wednesday, May 6, 2015

Is this the year to deepen your direction? New Location! Open to all spiritual directors!

Deepening Year

for Direction Ministries

NEW Location! Kirkridge Retreat Center 2495 Fox Gap Road Bangor, PA 18013 www.kirkridge.org

Leadership: Jo Ann Kunz and Ruth Workman (bio information available on-line)

Download a copy of the Deepening Year for Direction Ministries brochure on-line at www.oasismin.org/DYDM.htm or request one by calling 717-737-8222 or emailing [email protected]

We are offering the program in a new place this year—Kirkridge Retreat

Center in eastern Pennsylvania. We are also offering it at the same time as our Year I Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides program. Such a schedule will

allow me to have more presence with the program, for honestly, hanging out with directors, next to direction itself, is one

of my favorite things!

I hope to see you on the mountain!

~ Glenn Mitchell Director of Training and Programs

Grow in contemplation… by breathing!

Every moment of existence is suffused with the life and creative force of God. Every breath, every heartbeat is prayer. Created in the image of God, our purpose is to grow into awareness of this intimacy, this energy. Breath and Prayer invites us to explore this intimate knowing of Divine Presence. These experiential days provide support to help us "move the 'stuck,' needy energies that keep us trapped in our egoic selves, at the mercy of our inner demons." (C. Bourgeault) Breath and Prayer offers: Devotional Practice Inner Transformation Contemplative Community Participants Bring: Soft willingness to test tender edges Hospitable attentive hearts Openness to Holy Mystery Breath practice and centering prayer/meditation bookend the day. Note: Space is limited. No previous experience required. All are welcome!

Leadership: Ruth Zeiders has a practice in Spiritual Direction, Reiki, and TriYoga in Bloomsburg, PA. (more bio online) Location: St. Matthew Lutheran Church 123 N. Market Street Bloomsburg, PA 17815

Download a copy of the Breath and Prayer brochure on-line at www.oasismin.org/Breath-Prayer.html or request one by calling 717-737-8222 or emailing [email protected]

Breath and Prayer Exploring the Intimacy of Presence

“... God is suddenly as available and accessible as the

very thing we all do constantly -- breathe.”

~ Richard Rohr

Breath and Prayer, for me, is like taking a day to weed and tend to my inner garden. ~ Cindy Baugher

Dates: Opening Retreat: September 13-14, 2014 Monthly Gatherings: October 11, 2014 November 8, 2014 December -- no gathering January 10, 2015 February 7, 2015 March 14, 2015 April 11, 2015 May 16, 2015

Ruth offers her gift of creating a deep community and bringing a group of strangers together who quickly become a family. In the safety of this community, we can finally breathe. And in our full exhale is the most beautiful prayer. ~ Erin Shrader

Men4Directions

Men4Directions is a renewable year-long program of Oasis Ministries intended to help men grow in faith, self-awareness, and spiritual wholeness. The program includes small group community, quarterly retreats, and solo-time in the wilderness to engage with Spirit and Soul.

Quarterly retreats

Small group community

Solitude in nature

One-on-one spiritual direction

Readings and reflections

A contemporary vision quest

Why Men? We can all use help finding our way from time to time—men are no different. Men need the

support of one another to be honest and real about life. Through small group discussions, monthly consultation with a "spiritual brother", and contemplative practice, men are

encouraged to know themselves, listen to the still small voice within, and to honor their souls. The result could change lives and lead to a whole new world.

Retreat Dates: August 14-16, 2014 October 24-25, 2014 February 20-21, 2015 May 8-11, 2015 Location: Krislund Camp & Conference Center (www.krislund.org) 189 Krislund Drive Madisonburg, PA 16852 Room Still Available! Register Today!

See what participants have to say and download a brochure at www.oasismin.org/M4D.htm

A Program Uniquely Tailored for Men!

Leadership: Joel Blunk, Associate Pastor, the Wheelhouse, a ministry of State College Presbyterian Church (State College, PA) and graduate of Oasis’ Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides program.

"I am relatively new to men’s spirituality but was looking for a

new direction in my spiritual life. My participation in M4D deepened and challenged me in ways that I am still exploring. The

readings, poetry and journaling were all very helpful. But it was the community that was most helpful. Knowing that there were

others who were both counting on me and praying for me was a support and helped me through the dry times in my spiritual life.

Joel Blunk has been invaluable in his leadership. His ability to work with the Holy Spirit to touch the Christ in each of us has been such

a blessing. I cannot remember ever being moved by the Spirit as deeply and frequently as I have through my participation in M4D.

It is hard to state in words my full gratitude." ~ Rob Huffard

A 6-month Introduction to Contemplative Practices

Have you ever wanted to learn more about contemplation, prayer and spiritual practices? Would you like to explore those experiences with others who are seeking? Every Day Contemplation (EDC) is a six-session, monthly program from October 2014 to – March 2015, which will introduce participants to contemplative prayer practices. Each session will include exploring a new practice, private retreat time and sharing (as desired) within the group. Small experiential spiritual groups such as this generally develop a sense of community, rhythm and trust. This program is intended to be an introductory one for those not yet steeped in contemplative practice; however, anyone desiring to participate in a group contemplative gathering will be welcome to participate. The hope is for participants to experience contemplative prayer practices, in communion with others, that will enrich and enhance individual prayer life and the search for the Divine.

Dates and Themes (10am - 3pm each gathering): October 11, 2014 - Simple Prayer November 1, 2014 - Prayer in Sound and Silence December 6, 2014 - Prayer and Our Bodies January 3, 2015 - Lectio Divina February 7, 2015 -The Labyrinth March 7, 2015 - Centering Prayer

Leadership: Fern Gaffey, Sally Mathews, and Cathy Campanaro Each are trained spiritual directors and share a love of contemplative spirituality. (view more bio details on-line at www.oasismin.org)

Every Day Contemplation

An offering from the Oasis Board of Directors

“Oasis feels like

coming home.”

~ Pat Deeney

Location: Christ Presbyterian Church 421 Deerfield Road Camp Hill, PA 17011

Download a copy of the Every Day Contemplation brochure on-line at www.oasismin.org/EDC.html or request one by calling 717-737-8222 or emailing [email protected]

Getting reacquainted with the holy vessel you are

A Mindful Approach to Stress Reduction

“Space is the opposite of stress.”

Stress is an inevitable reality of modern life. But it is possible to discover how to live well with stress. The corresponding suffering can be reduced significantly through various techniques. Learn about the physiological responses and consequences of chronic stress together with some of the antidotes to daily stress. The presenter will highlight a stress reduction program (Mindfulness) in use at the University of Massachusetts Medical Center since 1979 as well as exploring what stress is and how it impacts our health. Participants will take away techniques practiced in the day. Learn more on-line at www.oasismin.org/SummerDe-Stress.htm Leadership: Rev. Cindy Garis, M. Div., Executive Director for Oasis Ministries, serves Oasis as her primary call to ministry (since 2005), encouraging all to a deepening spiritual life. She is a graduate of Oasis' two-year program, Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides and Deepening Year for Direction Ministries. She received her M.Div. from Lancaster Theological Seminary (Lancaster, Pa.), and is an ordained minister in the United Church of Christ. Before her present position with Oasis, Cindy served as a co-pastor for six years to a congregation in Lebanon, PA, and served on the Oasis Board of Directors for 3 years. She resides with her family in Dillsburg, PA. When: Friday, August 22, 2014 10:00a.m.-3:00p.m. Where: Atlast Cottage (The home of Vicki and Don Kensinger) 215 Brown Ave. Mt. Gretna, PA 17064 Retreat Fee: Suggested donation to Oasis Ministries $25-$50 (as you are able) Don't let cost keep you away. Give what you can and come! Please bring a brown bag lunch.

To register (or receive more information), please contact Betsy Keller

at 717.737.8222; [email protected]

“I have tried to cultivate the spiritual life since my

youth. In the last few years I have found prayer a

struggle. Because of Oasis, I was mindful of living

conscious of all the ways I do pray as I go through a

day.”

--Peg Mahoney

Part of our annual series on Contemplative Practices

“What now?”

A Retreat for Women:

Rethinking the Journey at Midlife and Beyond

This is a day of retreat for women who find themselves approaching midlife with more questions than answers. What is this period for? What’s the meaning of it all? Are you maybe feeling an inner nudge to wake up and notice your place in the greater scheme of things? Sometimes I want to find ways to slow down, or

refocus, but what is God calling me to do and be? This retreat is an invitation to come away and rest awhile, and explore these and other questions that you are experiencing. There will be times for solitude and for community, playing and praying.

Leadership: A mother and daughter team, Alicia Conklin-Wood and Beth Wood-Roig:

Rev. Alicia Conklin-Wood is an experienced retreat leader and spiritual director with training from the Shalem Institute. Beth Wood-Roig, a Unitarian

Universalist, has been involved in planning and leading retreats for her church community, the Unitarian Universalist Fellowship of Harford County, for the past seven years. (fuller bios online)

Location: Lancaster Friends Meeting 110 Tulane Terrace

Lancaster, PA 17603

Date: Saturday, September 27, 2014

9:30am - 3:30pm

Retreat Fee: $45-$65 (as you are able)

Register by September 20, 2014

More at www.oasismin.org/WhatNow.htm



“Oasis Ministries is a caring program that

teaches you to care for

others spiritually.”

~ Sue Squibb

Three-part series to heal our grief

HOPE through the Seasons is an opportunity to learn about the grieving process and welcome God into our pain while moving some of this pain from the inside to the outside. We will be attentive to the seasons of the year and the seasons of

grief while we have prayerful time with a large group, smaller conversational gatherings, solitude, creative experiences and music. You can attend one, some or all of these day retreats. A different program will be

offered each time; all will include a safe place for you to both tell your story and to take your grief. You can also attend HOPE through the Seasons if you participated in the HOPE Day Retreat held in February 2014 – each retreat will be a unique experience.

Although none of us would ask for our losses, God can help us be transformed by them and receive gifts along the way. Please join us in this sacred work of

Healing Our Pain of grief with the Eternal God. HOPE through the Seasons is a cooperative offering of Oasis Ministries and the WheelHouse, an outreach ministry of the State

College Presbyterian Church.

Leadership: Jackie Naginey Hook and Zack Maser See additional description and bios on-line at:

www.oasismin.org/HopeInGrief.html

Where: State College Presbyterian Church

132 W. Beaver Avenue State College, PA 16801

When: October 17, 2014, January 16, 2015, April 17, 2015 Times: 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.

Workshop Fee: $45 - $65 (as you are able) (Price break: $125 total if you register for all three at the same time by October 7)

Healing Our Pain with the Eternal

(HOPE) through the Seasons

Visit the website!

You can download a

flyer to share.

“For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven.”

- Ecclesiastes 3:1

To register or receive more information, please contact Betsy Keller at

717.737.8222; [email protected]

For Spiritual Directors

Through his various works, the Spanish mystic John of the Cross, provides us with rich and meaningful direction concerning how a person may grow into an ever deepening relationship with God. With systematic thought and great care, he describes the dynamics of a "dark night" the soul experiences as the relationship with God matures, particularly helping us to discern signs of the dark night as opposed to other conditions the person may be experiencing. The mystic's work in this regard is most important to the contemporary spiritual director who is often faced with discernment between spiritual and psychological issues their directees face. This workshop will address the interplay between psychological and spiritual issues spiritual directors are likely to encounter in working with directees. In particular, clinical aspects of depression will be discussed, and dynamics of the dark night as described by John will be explored in depth. Our time together will be both informative and experiential in a contemplative setting. Leadership: Marianne Sickles Grabowski, D.Min., NCC, LCPC Marianne is an ordained elder in the Baltimore Washington Conference of the United Methodist Church, a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in the State of Maryland, and a Fellow in the American Association of Pastoral Counselors. She is a graduate of Pennsylvania State University (B.S.), Wesley Theological Seminary (M.Div.), The Shalem Institute for Spiritual Formation, and the Pastoral Counseling program at Loyola University Maryland (M.S.) She recently received her Doctor of Ministry degree from Lancaster Theological Seminary. Her dissertation focused on the emotional and spiritual care of clergy. Location: St. David's Lutheran Church 1032 Musselman Road, Hanover, PA 17331

When: Friday, October 24, 2014, 9:30am - 3:30pm

Retreat Fee: $50-$75 (as you are able) For more details or to download a flyer, please visit www.oasismin.org/BytheSecretLadder.htm

“By the Secret Ladder, Disguised” Depression & the Dark Night of the Soul in the

Writings of John of the Cross



Enjoy this mother-son team

Love in a Letter:

The Lost Art of Letter-Writing

There is a soulfulness manifest in sitting down and giving time to the creation of a

letter and the time we take scribes significance on the page along side all the chosen and penned words. Letter writing gathers our intentions and our care. It engages our senses in the act of creating. And there can be great soulfulness stirred in us in opening a letter and sitting down in a comfortable spot to savor the words from

someone you care about. There is a slowing that happens in the writing and the reading of a hand-written letter. In this retreat day we will examine the gifts of letter writing, savor some of the gems of correspondence from human history, and in a retreat atmosphere

surrounded with beautiful papers and spirited companions, pick up our pens and turn intentions into a few letters of the heart. Paper and envelopes will be provided--participants are responsible for bringing an open heart, a pen, and a few forever

stamps.

Leadership: Glenn Mitchell and Kathleen Mitchell (mother and son team):

Kathleen was writing letters by hand for years before Glenn was born and over the decades since they have written letters back and forth. More recently they have been blessed by a regular practice of writing to one another

several times a week. Part mindfulness, part journaling, part love letter, these letters have given new shape to their daily living. Glenn is Director of Training and Programs for Oasis and loves good paper, making books, and all things

contemplative. Kathleen has a masters in library science and after raising three boys, worked in various school and public libraries and has always loved keeping her hands busy with knitting, sewing, painting, making prayer beads and letter writing.

When: Friday, November 7, 2014, 9:30am - 3:30pm Register by November 1, 2014

Where: St. James Lutheran Church 109 York St, Gettysburg, PA 17325

Retreat Fee: $65-$85 (as you are able)

Learn more at www.oasismin.org/LetterWriting.htm



Walk your prayer in this retreat day

“There are as many ways to walk the labyrinth as there are people on the planet and days in the lives of each of those individuals.”

~ Chantel Zimmerman

The labyrinth is a walking meditation, a path of prayer and an archetypal blueprint where psyche meets Spirit. It has only one path that leads from the outer edge in a circuitous way to the center. There are no tricks to it and no dead ends. Unlike a maze where you lose your way, the labyrinth is a spiritual tool

that can help you find your way.

While the origin of the labyrinth is unknown, labyrinths have been found all

over the world dating from earliest antiquity. Once popular in the Middle Ages, labyrinths have been experiencing a resurgence in popularity. It has become increasingly common to find labyrinths in schools, prisons, parks, hospitals,

spas, churches, prisons, and retreat centers.

Labyrinths are thought to enhance right brain activity, and uses include

problem solving, conflict resolution, walking meditation, modern day pilgrimage, and stress management.

No experience necessary. All are welcome!

Join us for a day apart of learning, walking and talking the labyrinth.

Leadership: Fern Gaffey and Sally Mathews Full bios as well as a tentative layout for the day are available on the webpage

for the retreat. Please visit: www.oasismin.org/LabyrinthDay.htm

When: Saturday, February 7, 2015, 10:00a.m.—3:00p.m.

Where: Christ Presbyterian Church 421 Deerfield Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011

Retreat Fee: $65-85 (as you are able)

Registration Deadline: February 1, 2015

Walking and Talking the Labyrinth



Music as healing prayer and presence

Music Metamorphosis Explore Stages of Transformation in

Story, Music and Imagery

Music Metamorphosis focuses on integrating change. As in the change of seasons, there is a cycle of death and re-birth. In this workshop, we

introduce and explore a cycle of transformation: Surrender, Mystery, Abyss, Hope, Discovery, Renewal and Manifestation using the music of Sophia Morreale, Songs for All Seasons: A New Day to understand and integrate change into the mind, body, spirit.

The workshop will include a variety of experiential exercises in conscious listening to music, Guided Imagery and Music (GIM), meditation, interpreting symbolism and colors in drawn mandalas, and creative

movement, all skillfully guided by Music Therapist, Sophia Morreale. Leadership: Sophia Morreale Board-certified music therapist Sophia, founder of

Music Heals (www.musicheals.me) is certified in the Bonny Method of Guided Imagery and Music Therapy, and is a graduate of Oasis Ministries’ training in spiritual direction.

Her multi-dimensional skills as a professional

musician, teacher and group facilitator provide a means to deeper, authentic spiritual connection and experience. (See video introduction online)

When: Saturday, March 21, 2015, 10:00a.m.—3:00p.m. Where: Christ Presbyterian Church

421 Deerfield Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011 Retreat Fee: $65-85 (as you are able) Registration Deadline: March 10, 2015



Explore more at

www.oasismin.org/

MusicMetamorphosis.htm

Annual Poetry as Prayer Retreat Day

Wendell Berry is a poet, philosopher, teacher, essayist, novelist, activist, farmer, and in all these varied pursuits, a man deeply rooted in the land and in the values and integrity of life, family and community that is tied to the land. In a review Charles Hudson wrote of him, “Like Thoreau one of Berry’s fundamental concerns is working out a basis for living a principled life and like Thoreau, in his quest for principles Berry has chosen to simplify his life, and much of what he writes about is what has attended this simplification…” No matter how his passions pull him in the week, Berry has for decades honored the rhythm of Sabbath in his life and, especially if the weather approaches fine, he spends part of the day outside, on the land he has been most intimate with. His honoring of the Sabbath has included writing poems that as he says: “were written in silence, in solitude, mainly out of doors.” These Sabbath poems will form the focus of our Annual Poetry as Prayer Day, on April 10, 2015. Together we will open to their gifts and their invitations to quiet, to nature, and to a life principled with Sabbath.

Leadership: Glenn Mitchell, M.Div., is Director of Training and Program for Oasis Ministries. He is the lead presenter/facilitator for Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides. Glenn has led a variety of retreats around the country on themes of prayer, spirituality, spiritual direction, nature and spirituality and the interplay of art and spirituality. He has a practice of spiritual direction and retreat leadership based in State College, PA. When: Friday, April 10, 2015, 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

Where: Lititz Church of the Brethren 300 West Orange Street Lititz, PA 17543 www.lititzcob.org Retreat Fee: $65-85 (as you are able) Please bring a bag lunch.

Poetry as Prayer: Wendell Berry

Poems of Sabbath--Invitations from the Quiet



Visit www.oasismin.org/PoetryRetreat.html

A day for craft and prayer

Prayer Basket Day: Creating Bali Rag

Bowls to Hold the Holy

Come apart to explore ways to carry the sacred in your day and on your way. The day will be couched in prayer and you will learn to fashion hand-woven Bali rag bowls. This retreat day will also include contemplative space along

Lake Meade, as well as ways in which the bowls can be used as a prayer resource. All materials are provided. Each participant

receives a booklet describing the technique we will practice.

“The Hand Woven Bali Basket pattern is fast, simple and fun. You will not need a sewing machine to complete this project.” ~ Susan Pennoyer, Yarmouth, ME ([email protected])

Leaders: Judy Clark and Cindy Garis Full bios and more information online at www.oasismin.org/RagBowlRetreat.htm

When: Friday, May 8, 2015, 10:00a.m.—3:00p.m.

Where: Judy’s home, 478 Lake Meade Drive, East Berlin, PA 17316

Retreat Fee: $50-75 (as you are able)

Registration Deadline: April 30, 2015 Please bring a brown bag lunch.



REGISTER EARLY! Retreat is limited to 18 and fills up!

Merton Retreat Day A Repeating Event

Come join us for a day apart with Thomas Merton in the beautiful setting of Still Waters, a retreat center along the banks of the Conodoguinet Creek. Thomas Merton (1915-1968), Trappist monk, writer, poet, contemplative, was one of the most influential Christian voices of the 20th century. We will explore his contribution in a contemplative and active way, and experience the ways in which his life and work still speak to us. Leadership: Sanford Alwine, a therapist providing marriage, family and individual counseling and spiritual direction in Carlisle, PA, and co-director of Still Waters Retreat Center, along with Glenn Mitchell, the Director of Training and Program for Oasis Ministries, who has led a variety of retreats around the country on themes of prayer, spirituality, spiritual direction, nature and spirituality and the interplay of art and spirituality. He has a practice of spiritual direction and retreat leadership based in State College, PA. When: Friday, June 5, 2015 9:30 a.m.-3:30 p.m.

www.oasismin.org/Merton.htm Where: Still Waters Retreat Center 501 W. Slate Hill Road, Carlisle, PA 17013 Retreat Fee: $75-95 Lunch is provided. Space is limited to 18. Register early!

“The staff of Oasis is challenging and

kind, very dedicated to nurturing new

spiritual directors and promoting the

contemplative in a less than friendly

culture. The staff loves the students and

the people they are or may be directing.

They uphold high ideals.”

~ Gary Jacabella



Self-care for Clergy

Rediscovering Your

Authentic Direction A Self-Care Retreat Series for Clergy

Are you in ministry? How are things with your soul? How are you praying? Now pause… and take time to nurture yourself and your ministry. This workshop series is aimed at encouraging participants to engage in dialogue with the Divine and oneself, then inviting participants to take healthy steps to restoring life balance. Explore your contemplative side, feed your soul and delight in community offered at each session. There will be time and space for quiet, journaling, reflection and meditation. Additionally, the series assists participants in writing and implementing a self-care plan. Leadership: Michael D. Carr, LPC, NCC, is owner of Danville Pastoral Counseling Center. As a pastoral and licensed professional counselor, journal therapist and emotion focused therapist, his goal is to “help you reconnect with yourself, the people who mean the most to you in your life, and the way you understand the world around you.” Michael serves on the Board of Directors for Oasis Ministries. Rev. Ann Schoonover is ordained in the Presbyterian Church, USA Ann offers workshops focused upon pastoral visitation to the faith community-at-large. She maintains a private practice offering individual and group spiritual direction and also offers spiritual direction to students of Princeton Theological Seminary, engaging in the work of formation, discernment and vocational calling. Dates and Themes: Fridays, 9:00 a.m.—3:30 p.m. February 20, 2015—Compassion Fatigue March 20, 2015—Entering Sabbath April 17, 2015—Restoration to Serve May 15, 2015—Living Your Self-Care Plan Location: TBA

“Oasis has been just that—a

monthly opportunity to drink from the

well.

Spiritually refreshed, we go back to our lives, taking its

essence with us.”

--Kathleen Frey

NOTE: At the time of printing, program plans still needed to be finalized, but please let us know of your interest in this program by visiting: www.oasismin.org/ClergySelfCare.htm

Sharing Your Story, Giving a Nudge

We love hearing from people who have been through our programs. You offer great accounts of transformation. Additionally, we know you are the best resource we have in getting the word out about

the great work that God is doing through Oasis.

So, here are 3 invitations for you:

Hold Oasis in prayer. More specifically, choose 3 pages in this Program Guide and pray over those programs. Now write down the names of the people that God brings to mind… share this guide or a brochure with them or drop them an email saying that you thought of them. “God has no hands now on earth but yours…” (Teresa of Avila)

Share your favorite Oasis story… or your review of Oasis (www.greatnonprofits.org). We’d love to have record of your favorite “...ahhh…” moments. What difference has Oasis made in your life? How does Oasis make a difference in the world? Share your story at www.oasismin.org/25thAnniversary.html#ShareMyStory

Reflect on why you support Oasis. We asked our supporters, “Why do you give to Oasis?” Here are some of the amazing reflections we heard:

I give to Oasis because I believe in its mission. The SDSG program has been life-changing for me and I want other people to have the opportunity to experience Oasis' programs.

I love the way Oasis invites one to go deeper into their walk with God. They seem to sense wherever path that takes someone, it is a journey made for them and very special. Also they will be there with you through that journey.

The main reason I give to Oasis is that I want to show thankfulness.

I give to Oasis because it's the organization that comes closest to my hungers for good human relationships, spiritual growth, and nurture for the well-being of all people.

Explore a slide show of all responses and share your reason at www.oasismin.org/Support.html

Sharing Your Story, Remaining Connected

Help Us to Sustain Connections—Become a Ministry Maker TODAY! Ministry Makers are people like you who have said, “I want to support and bring stability to Oasis on a monthly basis, please charge my credit card for {$$} each month.” You choose the date and the amount (it can be changed or cancelled at any time.)

You can become a Ministry Maker for as little as $10 a month.

Simply call 717-737-8222 or visit www.oasismin.org/MinistryMaker.htm

“I like to describe my Oasis experience as the most enriching

thing I've done in the second half of life. The gifts of living continue to flow in awareness of God in all things.”

“Oasis has provided me the opportunity to be with a community

of people who are caring and authentic, who really seem to live in the Spirit of

God.“

Calendar

February 2015 4: SDSG Year I Session 4: DYDM Session 5: SDSG Year II Session 7: Breath & Prayer 7: Every Day Contemplation 7: Walking & Talking the Labyrinth (p.19) 20: Rediscovering Your Authentic

Direction (p.24) 20-21: M4D Third Meeting March 2015 4: SDSG Year I Session 4: DYDM Session 5: SDSG Year II Session 7: Every Day Contemplation 14: Breath & Prayer 20: Rediscovering Your Authentic

Direction 21: Music Metamorphosis (p.20) April 2015 HAPPY EASTER! 8: SDSG Year I Session 8: DYDM Session 9: SDSG Year II Session 10: Wendell Berry Poetry Day (p.21) 11: Breath & Prayer, St. Matthew 17: Rediscovering Your Authentic Direction 17: HOPE through the Seasons (p.16) May 2015 5-6: SDSG Year I Closing Retreat 5-6: DYDM Closing Retreat 7-8: SDSG Year II Closing Retreat 8: Prayer Basket Retreat Day (p.22) 8-11: M4D Closing Retreat 15: Rediscovering Your Authentic Direction 16: Breath & Prayer June 2015 5: Thomas Merton Retreat Day (p.23)

August 2014 14-16: M4D Opening Retreat (p. 12) 22: Summer De-Stress: A Mindful

Approach to Stress Reduction (p.14) September 2014 13-14: Breath and Prayer Opening (p.11) 25-26: SDSG II Opening Retreat (p. 8) 27: What Now? A Retreat for Women (p.15) 30: SDSG I Opening Day of Retreat (p.8) 30: DYDM Opening Day of Retreat (p.10) October 2014 1: SDSG I 2nd Day of Retreat 1: DYDM 2nd Day of Retreat 11: Breath & Prayer 11: Every Day Contemplation (p.13) 17: HOPE through the Seasons (p.16) 24: “By the Secret Ladder, Disguised” (p.17) 24-25: M4D Second Meeting November 2014 1: Every Day Contemplation 5: SDSG Year I Session 5: DYDM Session 6: SDSG Year II Session 7: Lost Art of Letter-Writing (p.18) 8: Breath & Prayer December 2014 3: SDSG Year I Session 3: DYDM Session 4: SDSG Year II Session 6: Every Day Contemplation MERRY CHRISTMAS! January 2015 3: Every Day Contemplation 7: SDSG Year I Session 7: DYDM Session 8: SDSG Year II Session 10: Breath & Prayer 16: HOPE through the Seasons (p.16)

Information/Registration

Name: ____________________________________________ Address: ___________________________________________ ___________________________________________ Phone #:____________________________ Email:______________________________ Please contact me about: Men4Directions Breath and Prayer Spiritual Direction for Spiritual Guides Deepening Year for Direction Ministries Every Day Contemplation Please register me for the following Event(s): Event Name/Date of Event _____________________________________ Event Name/Date of Event _____________________________________ Event Name/Date of Event _____________________________________ If paying by check, please make it payable to OASIS MINISTRIES, and send it along with this page to the address below. If paying by credit/debit card, please complete the following: Visa/MC/DISCOVER#_______________________________________ Exp. Date: _______________ 3-digit Sec. Code (back of card) __________ Signature:_______________________________________________ My email (we will send confirmation of processing): ____________________________

I’d like to make a contribution to support the work of Oasis! See enclosed check or please charge my account at the above information in the amount of $________and use it towards:

Wherever the needs are greatest Multiplying the Ministries (Endowment fund) Sanford Alwine Scholarship Fund “Green Space for the Soul” Campaign—25th Anniversary Other (please specify) _____________________________

Oasis is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. Contributions are tax-deductible.

Contact us at 419 Deerfield Road, Camp Hill, PA 17011

phone 717.737.8222 ; email: [email protected] or visit www.oasismin.org.

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2014-2015 oasis program guide

Documents

spiritual development

spiritual guides

direction ministries

spiritual journey

authentic direction

oasis ministries

wordle exercise page

prayer basket retreat