Leadership Retreat

On a cold Saturday in January, A Place To Be Leadership Team gathered to pray, reflect, and discern about our own spirituality as well that of the Center.  We began by reflecting on our personal relationship with God, how we would like that relationship to grow and what we could do to foster that growth.  We collected words such as:  dependent, longing, distracted, struggle, grateful, acceptance, communion, presence, humility, diversity and support. 
We then were asked to think about our vision for the Center.  In what ways were we intentional about bringing that vision about?  What impact do we want the Center to have on our guests, on the greater community?  After quiet reflection and deep listening, both to ourselves and each other, we collected words that offered our vision (see below).  
From the discussion of our shortcomings, we identified many next steps and initiatives to help us achieve that vision.  Many of these you will see in the upcoming months; some might be more subtle but will hopefully be felt.  Always open to the movement of the Spirit, we welcome input and suggestions to help us grow into this vision.
Finally, we were asked to quietly reflect on the day overall and identify a word or phrase that arises.  These words and phrases were then written onto ribbons and randomly distributed among the team to remind us of our commitment to the vision and to pray with as we strive to meet the challenges coming.  The ribbons help us to remember:  all are welcome, progress, respect, loving acceptance, presence, peace, surrender, beauty, silence, love, open, community, fellowship, sharing, calling, listening, hospitality, God is with us.  Amen.