Saint Barnabas at Chapel Rock All-Parish Retreat
A Weekend of Faith, Fellowship, and Fun:
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photo by Madeline Smith
A weekend well spent among the towering pines and crisp, invigorating air of Prescott, Arizona, the Saint Barnabas Episcopal Church at Chapel Rock All-Parish Retreat was a truly transformative experience. This gathering was not just an escape from the daily grind; it was a journey of rediscovery, connection, and spiritual growth. As we came together as a church family, we were blessed to forge new connections, strengthen old ones, and deepen our relationship with God.
Fellowship and New Connections: The heart of this retreat lay in the sense of community and fellowship at every moment. As we arrived, there was an immediate feeling of welcome and unity, and it was amazing to see new friendships forming and old ones growing stronger. Whether it was sharing stories over breakfast or coming together for prayer, our bonds as a church family were nurtured in an atmosphere of love and acceptance.
Cultivating Disciples: Chapel Rock Camp and Conference Center, with its breathtaking natural surroundings, provided the perfect backdrop for our spiritual journey. Surrounded by the beauty of Prescott’s wilderness, we had opportunities for contemplation, meditation, and worship. The serene moments spent in nature were a reminder of God’s presence all around us, allowing us to find solace and inspiration.
Throughout the retreat, we were encouraged to reflect on our faith and what it means to be disciples of Christ. The Rev. Jim Clark’s message inspired us to rediscover the essence of Saint Barnabas and embrace the idea of being “One Human Family.” The retreat was a nurturing ground for our faith, fostering a deeper understanding of what it means to be disciples in today’s world.
Activities for All Ages: Our time at Chapel Rock was not all solemn contemplation; it was also filled with laughter and adventure. Children and adults alike enjoyed hikes through the woods, challenging rope courses with zip lines, as well as puzzles, coloring, and games. These experiences provided opportunities for bonding, teamwork, and, most importantly, fun. The weekend allowed for people of all ages – children, youth, and adults – to engage in meaningful activities.
Fellowship Moments and Delicious Feasts: We had fellowship over breakfast, setting the tone for a day of togetherness and shared experiences. And, as the sun set, we gathered for a great dinner, further strengthening our sense of unity through shared meals. One of the highlights of our retreat was the campfire gathering. It was a treat to have our new priest, the Rev. Anne Ellsworth, join in as the Campfire MC. Her energy was contagious as we shared stories, sang songs, and enjoyed s’mores by the flickering fire. These moments of shared joy and laughter were a testament to the deep connections we were forging as a church family.
As we look back on Saint Barnabas at Chapel Rock, we are filled with gratitude for the opportunity to come together in such a special way. We were blessed to have our Rector, the Rev. Jim Clark, and the Rev. Anne Ellsworth walking with us on this spiritual journey.
Join us next year! In the spirit of fellowship and renewal, we invite our Saint Barnabas community to join us next year for another unforgettable retreat. Let’s continue making memories, forging new connections, and becoming a stronger community in love, faith, and fellowship. Together, we can embrace the beauty of Prescott, the serenity of nature, and the infinite love of God as we grow as a church family. We can’t wait to see you there!
September 20-22, 2024
Thank you to Scott Williams for providing half of the imagery in this gallery!
