Annual Appeal Letter

Dear Friends,

This summer marked the 6-year anniversary of the Retreat House at Hillsboro and we are grateful for many extraordinary experiences as well as the strong foundation that has been created over time. As we carry out our mission to share God’s abundant Love in the world by holding a sacred, compassionate and inclusive space, the Holy Spirit is ever present.

The world—and life—continues to shift in response to the coronavirus and social upheaval. Through many hearts and voices, we sense a deep longing that has been brought to the surface and wants to be answered. In our striving to respond, we are discovering new prayers and new ways to be present and hold space. Technology has enabled us to reach people all over the country. Actually, it has been quite an exciting time with opportunities to share God’s love at every turn.

Through these past six months of “shut down” we have been praying, listening, pivoting and collaborating. Meanwhile, every week about 80 people connect with the Retreat House through visits, programs, or community engagement. Here are just a few examples:

A Cup of Tea Our first effort at an online group gathering was a great success and encouragement. Together, the group listened, prayed, laughed, sat in silence, and shared stories. This first move set the trajectory of our path as we adjusted to the new reality.
Wisdom Circles continue to offer people an opportunity to gather on a spiritual topic for 4-6 weeks, to connect, pray, share and deepen with God. The Wisdom Circles have created a safe space for participants to open their hearts, to listen and to be heard. These sessions have provided meaningful conversation, fostering new perspectives as well as new friendships.
Sacred Ground is a 10-week curriculum from the Episcopal Church’s Becoming Beloved Community that is centered on a facilitated dialogue about race and justice. Since January we have had the privilege of facilitating four groups, holding space for deep transformation for over 55 people. Two more groups are scheduled for fall. We look forward to continuing and expanding this important program as long as we are called to do so.
Community Engagement Through these efforts over the last year, the Retreat House was chosen as a pick-up location for the Caroline County Public School System’s food program. This project has opened up new relationships and offers potential for supporting those who are marginalized and food insecure in Caroline County.
Hermitage Overnights We have rearranged rooms in the Retreat House to create two discrete, COVID-safe suites for Hermitage overnight stays. People have so appreciated a place to come for a break, a change of surroundings, and peaceful, prayerful space. Especially now, we are glad to make this available.
The Retreat House property has become a haven for many more visitors to walk the grounds, pray in the labyrinth or in the church, visit loved ones in the cemetery or just to sit on a bench and enjoy the trees. We have stepped up our grounds maintenance program to ensure everyone’s safety and comfort.

Looking forward, there are several initiatives we are considering. Among them, two call for action now and we ask for your help in supporting them:

1. Repurposing the church building into an Internet Café Wireless Internet will be
   installed in the church for use by families in Hillsboro and others who have limited
   access to Internet, or who would want a change of workspace during the pandemic.
   While the weather is fine, the service can be used outside the church. When the
   temperature drops, we will invite people inside the church, with COVID protocols in
   place. Guests are invited to bring their own coffee. This is an important investment that enables us to respond to the needs that are emerging during this time of pandemic.
2. A Healing Garden If ever there was time for such a thing, it is now. Inspired by St.
   Hildegard of Bingham and Harriet Tubman—both were herbalists—a beautiful garden of solace has been imagined by two dear friends of the Retreat House. The garden will be a place for those who seek the healing consolation of flowers, plants and herbs in a peaceful setting. Plans are underway to begin initial planting this fall.

We invite you to consider a generous donation to support this work of God in the world, as we touch the lives of more than 300 people each month. The ministry relies solely on contributions from patrons and friends like you. A donation of any size—$10 to $10,000—is deeply appreciated at this time. We are always and ever grateful for your support.

At the Retreat House, the Peace and Presence of the Spirit of God has not been disrupted by a virus. Come and visit us. Bring your grief, your confusion, and your love; bring your sadness, your uncertainty, and your joy; bring your longing to the spaces and trees at the Retreat House. They, and we, wait with open hearts to receive and welcome you.

Blessings,

Francie Thayer
Director

 

 

Advisory Circle

Rodney Dean    Rachel Field    Suzi Foehl    Meg Gallagher    Howard Snyder

Liza Kimball   Jane Morgan    Libby Rice    Francie Thayer