Charlotte Parcels Group

A message from group leader, Charlotte Parcels:

30 years ago, I was invited to attend what was called a Silent Spiritual Retreat with a group of women at a convent in Kentucky. I invited a friend to come along with me for 5 days. We were asked to engage in times of solitude and honor the solitude of the other women at all times, other than meals and when we had a large group gathering in the evening. I didn’t think that I could be alone and quiet for what would amount to be about 10 hours a day (and frankly none of my friends and family thought I could either). Well let me tell you, it was a challenge to quiet my mind and soul the first couple of days, but what a fantastic experience. I had time to do whatever I wanted to do that would help me rest, refresh my creativity, and reconnect with my soul and my God. It’s really something that until you experience it yourself you can’t really know what I’m talking about. To have the time to do whatever I wanted to do with no responsibilities for anyone else other than myself is a gift. To have the time to be quiet and hear the still voice of the Lord is unheard of in the noisy days we live in, and it’s vital and amazing and life changing. So, I’m on year 30 and I’m hoping for many of you veterans to join me again as well as to have some newbies.

The structure of each day is the same: There are no planned activities. Each woman does whatever she needs to do to get the rest, refreshment and reconnection with God that she needs.  To accomplish this, we are in solitude most of the time and respect the solitude of others. If you choose to come, there is a nightly gathering time around 8pm.  Bring with you anything that helps you to get the rest and refreshment you need, which may include books and journals; Bible studies; a creative outlet like stamping, scrapbooking, jewelry making, quilting, painting, photography, music; chocolate; a sand chair to sit on at the beach; a bike; etc. Our rooms are comfy and include a desk and chair, rocking chair or recliner, and a bed, and they have private bathrooms. The rooms include bed and bath linens. Simplicity is the key. The Retreat Center has an outdoor labyrinth that I strongly encourage you to walk. Please bring with you snack(s) to share with everyone and anything you personally want to drink (alcoholic or non-alcoholic).

Come. Join me. It’s an experience you don’t want to miss and you’ll never regret having. It’s powerful and peaceful. It’s fun and freeing. Come.