We are pleased to announce that this year’s Women’s Retreat, entitled “Strength (and Joy) for the Journey” and led by the Rev. Maria Kane, will be held March 3–5 at the A. Felix DuPont Memorial House in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.
With endless responsibilities, ever-growing to-do lists, and the inevitability of interruptions, it can be hard to remember that we are human beings not human doings. This year’s women’s retreat will help us cultivate practices of play, rest, wonder, and authenticity amidst the busyness of our daily lives. This retreat is for any woman who desires to show up to their lives and the world around them with more intention, heartfelt joy, and playfulness.
Space is limited and fills quickly, so please complete the online registration and send your payment to the parish office to secure your spot. The cost ($350) includes housing and meals. For those in need of financial assistance, scholarships are available; please contact the Rev. Rob Fisher with your request. Questions? Please reach out to Lisa Kirchenbauer—and remember that your payment (not your email) secures your place at the retreat.
About the Annual Women’s Retreat
For those new to the Women’s Retreat, it’s a weekend away to gather, connect, rejuvenate, and learn. Accommodations are generally doubles or triples in very cozy and comfortable rooms within the house, with ensuite bathrooms. The food is delicious and healthy, and we can accommodate specific dietary needs with advanced notice. The retreat begins Friday evening and concludes Sunday at lunchtime. Generally, Saturday afternoon includes unstructured time to walk the beach, rest, or do fun crafts.
We especially welcome women who are new to St. John’s or attending the retreat for the first time, as many of us have found deeper connections to St. John’s and each other as a result of attending. Many women have told us that they have never been with a group of women in retreat and were unsure of how the experience would be. Many of our “sisters” have come back because the experience was so warm and welcoming. If you are unsure or don’t know what to expect, please reach out! We want to welcome a diverse group of women to our community.
For information about the retreat center, including sample accommodations, meals, and nearby things to do, please click here.
About the Retreat Leader
The Rev. Dr. Maria A. Kane is a priest, historian, spiritual companion, and writer who has served as rector of St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waldorf, Maryland, since 2014. A proud Texas native, Maria earned a Bachelor of Arts in history and classics from Howard University; a Master of Divinity from Duke University; and a Ph.D. in history from the College of William and Mary. She is also a member of Shalem Institute’s Spiritual Guidance Program. As a historian and priest, Maria sees her primary call as curating spaces for people to encounter the holy amidst the ordinary and helping people to discover that they are the longing of God’s heart. She loves living in the questions and accompanying people in the midst of sorrow to places of hope and abundance.
Covid Precautions
We ask that everyone who attends this year’s Women’s Retreat be fully vaccinated and boosted; proof of vaccinations will be required as part of the registration process. In addition, we request that each participant take a Covid test the morning before arriving and either email or bring your results with you. Please understand that if you contract Covid at the last moment, after our payment deadline, we may not be able to refund your retreat fee.
