“Suddenly/I call out from my heart.”    Sappho

Writing the Sacred:  a women’s contemplative retreat

January 7-10, 2010

Come on a four-day retreat to begin the new year in a monastery renowned for its beauty and sacred stillness.   Open the gates:  come meditate and write to deepen both practices and to cultivate the clarity that brings an outpouring of creativity.   All levels of writers and yogis welcome.

Morning yoga & short meditation with the gentle, radiant Susan Crosby.

Chanting with extraordinary Sanskrit singer Lynn Elbers.

Writing exercises & open notebook sessions daily with author Sandra Dorr.

Lauds, vespers, mass or private meetings offered by the St. Benedict’s community.

Stunning retreat house & hermitages at 8,000 ft.  
Superb vegetarian & nonvegetarian cuisine.

Cost (lodging, retreat & meals):  $395.  Commuters $275.

To register, contact Carol DiMarcello, St. Benedict’s, coc@sopris.net or (970) 927-9376.  $150 deposit.  Payment plans can be arranged.

Registration deadline:  12/28/09 (extended).

Scholarships & Discounts

Grace Huffman Creative Writing Scholarship

In honor of writer & actor Grace Huffman, I’m offering one full creative writing scholarship.  (You may apply if you have not received a Women’s Wilderness Writing scholarship in the last three years.)  Please email  three pages of prose or poetry, any style, any format, by Nov. 30; you will be notified by Dec. 4^th.

Cooking Scholarships

Three scholarships of $115 each for three women who like to cook!  You will be responsible for cooking a simple breakfast, a lunch and a dinner.   We are working again on an Indian theme for dinners, with tried-and-true recipes or your favorites.  We’ll have at least three women help you with preparation, and everyone on retreat will aid in the cleanup; the superb & beautiful St. Benedict’s kitchen has all needed kitchen supplies, and I will cover all costs of the food, and help you shop, if necessary.   The lead cook, who coordinates menus, will earn a $150 scholarship.   Call Sandy if you’re interested:   970.257-1498.

 Return & Girlfriend Discounts

$25 discount if you are returning to St. Benedict’s, or if you are bringing a new girlfriend or relative.

Cancellation Policy : Retreat & workshop fees are refundable, less $50, up to 30 days before the event's first day; after 30 days, they are not refundable.

Questions?  Email Sandy  or call 970.257-1498 .