Be Still: Designing and Leading Contemplative Retreats - Paperback

by Jane E. Vennard (Author)

Many people long for a deeper relationship with God, yearning for silence in a noisy world and a respite from busyness. Written for lay and ordained leaders who wish to bring the gift of space and silence to members who feel called to the contemplative journey, the book introduces the purpose of retreats, provides a theological and biblical understanding of the model, and offers guidance for designing and leading these gatherings. Sample retreats, a design for home retreats, and suggested resources are included.

Author Biography

Jane Vennard is a United Church of Christ pastor and spiritual director and has led retreats for more than 15 years. An adjunct faculty member at Iliff School of Theology, Denver, she teaches courses on prayer, spirituality, spiritual direction, and retreat design and leadership. She is also the author of A Praying Congregation: The Art of Teaching Spiritual Practice (Alban, 2005).