Deepening the Relationship of Peace, Service, and Spirituality

Marconi Conference Center Marshall, CA July 24 – 26, 2009

You are invited to join us for our eleventh annual summer retreat which will bring together an intergenerational group of approximately sixty-five people to deepen understanding about the intersection and relationship of peace, service, and spirituality. (Marshall, CA is approximately 90 minutes north of San Francisco).

This retreat will provide a stimulating and trusting environment for people to share stories and ideas that cast light on how peace, service, and spirituality relate and can be more effectively integrated. There will be many opportunities to expand collegial connections as we strive to deepen knowledge and plan creatively to improve our world.

Youth Service California and the Shinnyo-en Foundation are currently coordinating a Study Group on Peace, Service, and Spirituality. Members of the Study Group will share insights at the retreat and help facilitate a stimulating program that will include four basic components. Everyone will:

• Take part in a small Home Group of seven or eight that will meet three or four times during the retreat. The Home Group offers an opportunity to discuss issues in an informal setting and develop personal relationships with a diverse and intergenerational setting.
• Take part in optional activities that appeal to multiple intelligences, including a nature walk to the ocean, kayaking on Tomales Bay, talking with the leaders of the Shinnyo-en Foundation and creating original crafts.
• Enjoy unscheduled time for meditation, personal savoring of the beautiful environment, and the creation of spontaneous on site activities.
• Participate in large group activities where leaders from the peace and service fields will present ideas to inform and challenge conventional thinking.

Retreat Details

Eligibility: Anyone who is interested in actively exploring the relationship of peace, service, and spirituality is eligible to attend. We seek diversity in culture, religion, age and social backgrounds. Youth in high school or college are especially welcome. Organizations may bring groups to the retreat to nurture deeper relationships and increase unity but the number is limited to five members unless extra space unexpectedly becomes available.

Registration and Costs: There is a $100 registration fee for adults and a $30 registration for youth from 16 to 24. The registration fee covers all program expenses and room and board.

Retreat Acceptance: The general policy will be to accept applicants who demonstrate a strong interest in the retreat theme on a first come, first served basis. A few spots will be reserved, however, to allow some consideration for ensuring participant diversity. Preference will be given to applications received by May 18, 2009.

Accommodations and Amenities: The Marconi Conference Center offers simple but high quality rustic resort-like motel rooms and very tasty food in a sensational, natural setting that overlooks Tomales Bay. Participants will share a double or spacious triple room.