Advent is a season of anticipation – a time to slow down, pay attention and prepare our hearts for the coming of Christ. As Lakeside continues to expand opportunities for meaningful retreats and spiritual renewal, we’re excited to introduce a new 24-hour Advent Spiritual Retreat, Dec. 11-12.
Listening for the Divine Whisper, led by Rev. Dr. Brenda Buckwell, invites you to step away from the demands of daily life and make space for quiet reflection, thoughtful engagement and a deeper connection with God. Through teaching, conversation, prayer and intentional silence, this retreat offers an opportunity to pause, listen and prepare your heart for the Christmas season.
An internationally recognized retreat leader, author and founder of the Living Streams Flowing Water Ministry, Buckwell will guide participants through themes from her book, The Advent of God’s Word: Listening for the Power of the Divine Whisper. Through teaching, conversation and structured silence, participants will explore what it means to listen attentively to Scripture, the movement of the Spirit and the deep longings of the Advent season.
Gathering at Wesley Lodge and Lakeside United Methodist Church, this 24-hour retreat will follow an unhurried rhythm from 3 p.m. Friday through 3 p.m. Saturday. Enjoy opportunities for reflection, prayer and meaningful conversation, along with shared meals and time to unwind in Lakeside’s peaceful surroundings.
Make time for yourself this Advent and join us for 24 hours of reflection, connection and spiritual renewal.
REGISTRATION
Registration is open to participants ages 18+, with two participation options:
- $65/person: Includes retreat participation and two meals. Overnight lodging is booked separately.
- $25/person: Includes online or in-person retreat participation without meals.
RETREAT SCHEDULE
FRIDAY, DEC. 11
3 p.m. | Arrival, Check-In & Personal Time
Arrive, settle in and enjoy the beauty of Lakeside. Take time to walk, rest and center yourself as you prepare to enter the retreat.
5 p.m. | Dinner & Session #1 | Wesley Lodge
Gather for dinner, followed by our opening session with Rev. Dr. Buckwell.
Following Session #1 | Evening Prayer & Grand Silence | Wesley Lodge
Close the evening together in prayer before entering Grand Silence for the night. This intentional time without conversation offers space for rest, reflection and listening for God.
SATURDAY, DEC. 12
8 a.m. | Morning Prayer | Lakeside United Methodist Church Sanctuary
Begin the day together in prayer.
8:30 a.m. | Breakfast | Wesley Lodge
9-11:30 a.m. | Session #2 & #3 | Wesley Lodge
Continue exploring the themes of Advent and attentive listening with Rev. Dr. Buckwell.
(Hotel check-out)
12 p.m. | Service of Prayer & Anointing for Healing | Lakeside United Methodist Church Sanctuary
Conclude the formal retreat with a service of prayer and anointing for healing (physical, emotional, relational, spiritual, etc.).
Following the Service until 3 p.m. | Optional Extended Personal Time
You’re welcome to extend your time in Lakeside for personal prayer, quiet reflection or a contemplative walk. Enjoy a little more space to be still before returning to the rhythms of everyday life.
CONTINUE THE JOURNEY: A COMPANION ADVENT BOOK STUDY
Want to carry the retreat’s themes into your Advent season? Join us for a companion four-week Advent Book Study facilitated by Rev. Kimberly Orr.
Featuring Buckwell’s The Advent of God’s Word: Listening for the Power of the Divine Whisper, this weekly devotional study offers an opportunity to explore the retreat’s themes more deeply and incorporate intentional listening and reflection into your daily life.
Noon | Tuesdays, Dec. 1, 8, 15 & 22
Hybrid: Fountain Inn Aigler Room or Zoom
Bring your own lunch and join us for this welcoming lunch-and-learn experience. Attend individual sessions or participate in the entire series.
