OUR FUTURE

Through months of deliberation, negotiation, prayer and great generosity, the property known as Harmony Hill will soon be the site of a new retreat space that promises to embody the vision of the Diocese to foster racial justice, creation stewardship, and restorative healing for people in all walks of life. Our former Bishop Provisional, Melissa Skelton, championed the cause, bringing together voices from Multicultural Ministries, Creation Care, Harmony Hill and St. Andrew's House to craft a vision for this new transformative center.

 

In addition to my role at St. Andrew's House, I have been asked to direct the interim process of getting the property ready for this new program as a new Advisory Committee is formed to create a strategic plan for Sacred Waters. Details will be communicated as they come to light, so bear with us, as there is much to do and discern in the coming year. Until then, here are a few answers for you:

 

Answers to Your Most Likely Questions

 

Will our contracts for retreats at St. Andrew's House be honored?

Yes! St. Andrew's House will operate per usual in 2025, while the new Center is being formed. The plan is that the Lodge and Bayne Cottage will be integrated with Sacred Waters thereafter, which means that usage and availability may change for parts of the year. We will be updating folks as the 2026 calendar becomes more defined, and we will give priority to existing groups as we do so.

 

What will happen to the Harmony Hill program and staff?

Harmony Hill has continued its work of offering healing retreats for those with cancer and beyond, utilizing various venues around the state. They are excited to announce that in early 2025, some of their favorite retreats will be at Sacred Waters. The 3-Day Cancer Retreats and Nurse Renewal Retreats are scheduled for early 2025, and registration will open soon! If you would like information about any of these programs, please visit the website at Harmony Hill - Sacred Waters Center Page. Harmony Hill will continue to have its office at Sacred Waters, at least in the interim, and will also have representation on our expanded Advisory Committee, charting the way forward for this new collaborative venture.

 

Will there be space available at Sacred Waters in 2025?

Yes, but it will become available in phases, as we need to do some important maintenance and upgrades, develop the new program and build our staff capacity. We're excited about the many options that Sacred Waters will offer in the form of both larger and smaller retreats, individual stays, and special events. Stay tuned!

 

How can I be involved?

There are a number of ways. Obviously, the costs of a transition such as this are extensive, so we would appreciate gifts from those who can support us financially. We also will be creating opportunities for people to come and help with their hands and hearts. Look for further updates on ways you, your family, your church or group can participate in work/stay retreats.

 

How can I pray for Sacred Waters?

1. For the formation of the new Advisory Committee, which will have many important decisions to make, that the Vision created can be manifested.

2. For addressing the maintenance needs and upgrades necessary to prepare for the new program.

3. For building important partnerships with churches, program providers and community members to build a strong, collaborative network.

 

Blessings and thanks for all of you who care & dream with us!

Director Dan Oberg