Spiritual Life

“Our spiritual practices remind us that we are in a good spot to learn about Home, about Love.” – Rev Becca Stevens

Spiritual Retreats

As part of First Presbyterian’s goal of providing opportunities for spiritual growth and exploration for our congregation, we usually offer two spiritual retreats annually. During these cautious pandemic times, our in-person retreats have been put on hold. Please keep an eye on our weekly ThisWeek@1st emails for updates.

Mount Angel, Benedictine Abbey

Our first retreat of the year generally follows the hectic pace and joyful noise of the holiday season! We gather together up at Mount Angel Benedictine Abbey for a weekend in January or February to soothe and grow the soul. The monks, who have resided on the top of a plateau overlooking the Willamette Valley for over one hundred years, host our church group in their comfortable retreat house. We have a keynote speaker whose workshops are woven in with unstructured time to enjoy the beautiful setting and we are free to partake in the lovely services which take place throughout the day and evening at the Abbey church. It is a most meaningful and enjoyable time of spiritual renewal and fellowship.

Summer Retreats

A few years ago, we held our summer retreat close to home at the Congregational Church here in town with their lovely facility and grounds. Our topic was “Endings, Beginnings, and Thresholds”, with excellent and inspiring leadership. We had tie for worship, journaling, large and small group sharing, and personal time for spiritual exploration through art and prayer. Of course, great food is always a part of our retreats!