Inspiration and Upcoming Retreats
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Spring Ephemeral Flowers: Trillium, Trout Lily, and Blood Root

      Last week, I had the privilege of leading a walking tour of the grounds for a group of retreatants. As always this time of year, I found myself drawn to the spring ephemeral flowers that dot the landscape. A spring ephemeral is a flower that has a very short life cycle. They are the first plants to pop up in spring and the first to bloom. They provide a burst of color on a muted landscape and a vital food source for our early pollinators. While they are quick to take advantage of the lack of competition, their delicate blooms also quickly fade away.

      As our group walked along, I couldn't help but feel a profound sense of gratitude for the wisdom offered by these tiny, delicate, dazzling plants:

In their fleeting existence, they gently remind us of the preciousness of each moment and teach us to embrace new beginnings.

Despite their delicate appearance, they thrive in the unpredictable spring conditions, teaching us the power of resilience and adaptability.

They wait patiently every year for their moment to bloom, reminding us that all things happen at their own pace and to trust the divine timing of our lives.

I invite you to head outside this spring to witness the beauty of spring ephemerals for yourself, allowing their presence to fill you with wonder!

Christine Noelle
Director of Donor & Community Engagement

Lake Michigan at Siena Retreat Center - schedule time away for a retreat

Amidst the vibrant energy of summer, make space for moments of rest and reflection. A Private Retreat is a chance to pause, recharge, and connect with your inner self and purpose.

Reach out to our Arrangements Coordinator, Nichole Stewart, at (262) 898-2580 to schedule your Private Retreat!

Forest Therapy on May 19th 2024

Forest Therapy
Sunday, May 19

Experience the therapeutic benefits of immersing yourself in nature with certified Forest Therapy Guide, Julie Kanak. This two hour program includes a guided hike of the Siena grounds and lakefront as well as time for personal reflection and community building.  

Contemplative Yoga Retreat

Contemplative Yoga
Thursday, May 30

Experience a day of tranquility and self-discovery as we delve into gentle yoga, mindfulness, and meditation practices. Come away with a stillness and peace that will enhance your life. Register here.

Abide Spring Retreat

Abide: A Weekend Retreat
Friday, May 31 - Sunday June 2

Join us for a weekend of serenity and self-discovery as we embrace the essence of spring. Enjoy a contemplative weekend while we explore the concepts of ABIDE: Attention, Beauty, Imagine,
Deepen, and Energize.
Learn more here.

A Day of Mindfulness for Helpers and Healers with Tom Buhler and Craig Welch

A Day of Mindfulness for Helpers and Healers
Thursday, June 20

This day is designed especially for people in serving professions including educators, social workers, case workers, psychologists, corrections officers, and other helpers. Learn more here.

Vibrant Spring Tulips Women for Women on Saturday, May 4

Women for Women
Saturday, May 4, 9:30-12:00

Led by Beverly Gross and Kathy Ostry, this women's circle incorporates inspirational readings, facilitated sharing, and personal reflection time. Learn more and register here.

Additional Upcoming Retreats

Birdwatching
Sunday, May 5

For Spiritual Guides:
Spiritual Guidance and Mental Health
Friday, May 3, 1-4pm, via Zoom, with Pat Francis, OP, PsyD

SoulCollage® Days: Game Changers
Wednesday, May 15

Silent Directed Retreat I
June 9-15

A Contemplative Retreat for Women
Sunday July 7 to Saturday July 13

Singing in the Hildegarden
August 2-4

Centering Prayer
Thursday Mornings

Lyrics composed by retreat group and sung by Carrie Newcomer

"The News of the Heart"

Enjoy the lyrics of the song created by the retreat group with Carrie Newcomer earlier this month!

"...there’s wonder and awe
In acts big and small 
And it’s always love 
That sustains it all."

~by "The Beautiful Not Yet" Retreat Group

Host Your Group at Siena Retreat Center

Looking for a space to host your own retreat or meeting this summer? Consider bringing your group to Siena Retreat Center! Space is available the weekends of May 31-June 2 and July 26-28. Choose from a variety of meeting spaces to suite your needs and enjoy the intentional space on the shores of beautiful Lake Michigan.

Find out more here!

Coneflowers and Lake Michigan Vista

Have you experienced a transformative program at Siena Retreat Center? Share the blessings by supporting our scholarship fund, ensuring that others can embark on their own journeys of growth and renewal. Your donation opens the door to life-changing retreat experiences for those in need.

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