Here & Now Retreat

"Who knows? Perhaps you have come to royal dignity for just such a time as this.” -Esther 4:14

You and I were made for here and now. In the Divine plan, we are on this earth, in the Diocese of London, in the year of our Lord 2024. Not only that, but we were also given the gifts and charisms to be exactly who we need to be. 

What is the Here & Now Retreat?
A one day or evening event for your Family of Parishes focused on the call of every baptized Christian to facilitated by Chrisandra Skipper.

Why should we consider hosting a Here & Now Retreat?
This is an opportunity to empower and inspire the people in your Family of Parishes. The fifth goal of our diocesan pastoral plan invites all to co-responsible ministry. Participants will pray, reflect and share together about their identity as a child of God, disciple of Jesus, and missionary for the world.

Who should attend a Here & Now Retreat?
Every parishioner of your Family of Parishes should be invited, particularly those who are already serving in ministry roles and those who you hope to see take on ministry opportunities. The event can accomodate anywhere from 15 to 100+ participants.

Where does a Here & Now Retreat take place?
In your Family of Parishes!

When should a Here & Now Retreat take place?
It can be an evening event (6:30-9:00) or a Saturday morning (10:00-2:00). Sample schedules can be found below. Times are flexible.

Here and Now can be a stand-alone event, however it will naturally promote the Called and Gifted Discernment program that is run by Chrisandra through Pastoral Services. Our next virtual and diocese-wide Called and Gifted Session begins in May. We can also discuss a Called and Gifted Session for your Family of Parishes.

What will our team need to do to make this happen?
We will provide promotional material, facilitate the whole day, and provide follow up. The contact person at the Family of Parishes will be responsible to arrange food and refreshments, book the space, and invite people to join us. 

What does a Here & Now Retreat cost?
Your Family of Parishes is responsible for any food or beverages for the day. There are no other costs.

How do I book?
Contact Chrisandra to book – cskipper@dol.ca. Get on her calendar - The sooner, the better!

Example Evening Schedule
6:30 – Welcome and Mingling
6:45 – Opening Prayer
7:00 – Session: Here & Now – Embracing our call to discipleship and the Church
7:45 – Break
8:00 – Session: Called & Gifted – Discerning and sharing our gifts using material from Siena Institute
8:45 – Closing Prayer
9:00 – End

Example Day Schedule
10:00 – Welcome and Mingling
10:15 – Opening Prayer
10:30 – Session: Here & Now – Embracing our call to discipleship and the Church
Noon – Lunch
12:45 – Session: Called & Gifted – Discerning and sharing our gifts using material from Siena Institute
1:45 – Closing Prayer
2:00 – End