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It's time to power down from "survival mode."
You made it through a year where nothing was ever quite normal: routines were out of whack, work and worry invaded homes, and loved ones were lost. You were stressed. You were anxious. You were grieving and lamenting. What comes next? Jesus says “I came that [you] might have life and have it abundantly" (John 10:10). The purpose of Refresh, Restore, Renew: Come Alive! is to take Jesus Christ at his word and to embrace his vision for a rich, satisfying, and abundant life. The week, July 5-9, is a space to reboot your system, to recalibrate your sense of direction, and to open your eyes to the path that Christ has put before your feet.
Come as you are and wherever you are!
Join us from your kitchen, a cozy chair, or hiding in the closet with your secret stash of chocolate (moms, I'm lookin' at you!). Every event is optional, so you can move at your own pace and only participate in what feels useful to you. We think it's all good stuff, but we don't know your life or your needs. Make sure you check out opportunities for prayer and community care! Social activities and small groups are available to all registered participants.
Speakers
Karen Ballard
Karen is passionate about helping people of all ages get excited about the transforming power of Jesus Christ, believing that the Word of God is meant to be lived out in all of life! During her years as a pastor she has constantly been attentive to the spiritual growth of ministry leaders in her churches (currently Rome Presbyterian Church in Pennsylvania) and in her denomination (ECO) and in the Christian community at large. She has a passion for Scripture and cherishes any opportunity to be with others in the Word. She is married to Barry Ballard and together they have two adult children pursuing careers in theater and music.
Gary Pope-Sears
A born and bred Methodist, Gary and his family have participated in Christian Ashrams since their children were young. Gary currently serves at Holy Cross United Methodist Church in Stockton, CA. In addition to his pastoral service, Gary enjoys his life with Sybella, his wife of 38+ years. They both enjoy music, especially singing, and then pursue divergent interests: she loves to garden, and he relishes woodworking.
Top Questions About Refresh, Restore, Renew: Come Alive!
Q: How much content will there be?
A: We will begin Monday afternoon with a shortened program. From Tuesday through Friday there will be 4-5 hours of content that can be accessed as you have time. We know that some people will have a meaningful experience by interacting with a small portion of that while others will engage with all of it.
Q: Where will I access the content?
A: All content except discussions can be accessed through the website. Additional materials for kids including an interactive prayer journal and themed crafts will be mailed to those who request them.
Q: Do I need to have an account to access resources?
A: You do not need an account to sign up or to access the resources. There are some portions of the retreat that will use certain programs but these can be accessed without signing up. For instance, we will be using Zoom to allow for discussions and small groups. There will also be opportunities to interact with material on Padlet and YouTube.
Q: What if I am working and cannot attend any of the live discussion or I can attend some and not others?
A: We hope that as many people as possible can participate in the discussion times but they are not required. If you are unable to attend some live discussion but not others that is perfectly fine.
Q: I am not very good on a computer. How will I figure out how to use Zoom and Padlet?
A: We understand how you feel. We have written up instructions on using both of these resources. Check them out here. If you have difficulty accessing zoom or other materials we have a tech team that is happy to help.
Q: What kind of device should I use?
A: Any device will work; a phone, tablet or laptop.
Q: Will there be any program for kids?
A: While we won't be doing videos and live interactions this year, our teaching group has come up with some great curriculum that families can do along with their children. This will be available on the website soon. Additionally, we are making our content from last year available for families who may be interested in having their children participate in that way. Older children may be able to participate in portions of the week with adults. Please contact us for more information on how your child can participate or visit the kids section by clicking here.
Q: I still have some questions about this "online retreat." Is there someone I can talk to?
A: Yes! All of our contact information is listed at the bottom of the page. We would love to hear from you.
Q: What is Redwood Christian Ashram?
A: Redwood Christian Ashram is a Christian family camp held each summer in the Santa Cruz mountains of California. Since we are unable to hold a camp in person we have decided to put our efforts into an online retreat that is accessible to everyone.
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