Scripture is filled with stories of brokenhearted people speaking their heartbreak to God in poetry, protest and prayer. Though present in the Bible, many of us today are uncomfortable with lament despite feeling a great need for this profoundly spiritual practice. We all need to lament. Keeping silence is unfaithful and unhealthy. “Poetry, Protest, Prayer” explores the roots and expressions of lamentation in scripture, tradition, and art to reclaim its meaning for our lives through silence, deep listening, prayer, holy conversation, and writing our own psalms of lament.

This retreat is open to all, though enrollment will be limited. Please plan to arrive between 3-5 pm on Friday to allow time to unpack before our prompt start at 6 pm. Bring a Bible and a journal. Wear sturdy shoes and layers of clothing, suited to mountain temperatures. To support the creation of sacred space, expect to maintain mindful silence between sessions, during meals, and overnight.

The Rev. William “Dawg” Strong facilitates this retreat. He is ordained in the United Church of Christ, holds an M.Div from Union Theological Seminary, a certificate in short term crisis counseling from VCU’s Department of Patient Counseling, is a Spiritual Director, and graduate of the School of Lectio Divina and Mepkin Abbey’s Monastic Institute.

For more information or to reserve your space in this retreat, contact Debbie@mountainlightretreatva.com by March 20 at 5 PM.