Anam Cara: Exploring the Celtic Concept of Soul Friendship

“The deepest things that you need are not elsewhere.
They are here and now in that circle of your own soul.
Real friendship and holiness enable a person
to frequently visit the hearth of [their] solitude;”

–John O’Donohue, Anam Cara: A Book of Celtic Wisdom

Have you ever felt lonely, even in the midst of a great crowd or a loud party?

Do you long for deep connection with others, but find it hard to make connections that go beyond small talk and chit-chat?

Do you yearn for a better way–deeper friendships, that last the test of time, and that weather all the storms of life?

Then you may be looking for Anam Cara,  a Celtic phrase meaning “soul friend.”

Join us for a weekend of exploring this mystical concept, which transcends what we normally think of as friendship and friendliness, and goes to something deeper–the depths of our souls in community with other, like-minded people.

We will spend some time in conversation, listening to one another, silent reflection, and connection with the earth as we seek to become, and recognize in others, the quality of Anam Cara. 

Schedule:

Friday–

1:30-4:30 p.m.    Registration and settling in
4:30 p.m.             Meditation
5:30 p.m.             Dinner
6:30 p.m.             Opening Ceremony in the Meditation Chapel
7:30 p.m.             Session one: Introduction (What is “Anam Cara,” and how do we recognize it?)
9:00 p.m.            Quiet Hours Begin

Saturday–

7:00–9:00 a.m.  Breakfast in silence
8:00 a.m.             Morning Meditation (will be held outside in the labyrinth, weather permitting)
9:30 a.m.             Session 2: Connecting with our own souls.
11:00 a.m.            Break
12:00 p.m.           Noon Meditation
1:30 p.m.              Free Time
3:00 p.m.             Afternoon Tea
4:30 p.m.             Afternoon Meditation
5:30 p.m.             Dinner
6:30 p.m.             Session 3: Connecting with the souls of those we love
8:00 p.m.            Campfire (weather permitting)
9:00                      Quiet Hours Begin

Sunday–

7:00–9:00 a.m.  Breakfast in silence
8:00 a.m.             Morning Meditation
9:30 a.m.             Session 4: Connecting with the Soul of the Divine and becoming “Anam Cara”
11:00 a.m.           Brunch
12:00 p.m.          Closing Circle

The cost of this retreat includes accommodation in one of our lovely cabins (single and double accommodations available–bring your soul friend if you wish!), meals, and all materials, including a copy of Anam Cara by John O’Donohue.

General Policies

• No visitors under 18 years old
• No pets (service animals with certificate are OK)
• No alcohol, tobacco, or recreational drugs
• No weapons of any kind
• No open fires

Cancelation policy

If the reservation is canceled within the 7 days before the scheduled retreat date and time, a credit towards a future stay is provided. A credit is valid for one year from date of issue.

If the reservation is canceled up until the 7th day before the scheduled retreat date and time, a refund will be issued, minus any credit card transaction fees and donations. Refunds will be made to the original credit card on file or by check within two weeks of the notice of cancelation.

An exception may be made in the case of illness, death in the family, or inclement weather, in which case  a credit towards a future stay is provided. A credit is valid for one year from date of issue.

Any donations added to a registration can’t be refunded.