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You are invited to a Writing Retreat

July 21 -23, 2023 at Mercy Center in Burlingame

“Listen to your life. See it for the fathomless mystery that it is. In the boredom and pain of it no less than in the excitement and gladness: touch, taste, smell your way to the holy and hidden heart of it because in the last analysis all moments are key moments, and life itself is grace.”                                  

–Frederick Buechner

Come spend a weekend devoted to reflecting on the stories in our lives and capturing them in writing. Beginning and experienced writers are welcome.

We will

• Respond in writing to themes which help us gather memories
• Enjoy quiet time to reflect on the stories in our lives
• Share in a supportive small group
• Engage in making collage art
• Enjoy the beauty of summer on the Mercy Center grounds
• Walk the labyrinth
• Listen responsively to others’ stories
• Participate in reflective prayer and meditation

Lunch is included after retreat ends.

Presenters:

Liz Dossa is a certified Guided Autobiography instructor and has led Guided Autobiography at Mercy Center, Marian Oaks Life Center and through the Foster City Library. She has worked in public relations and communications for the Sisters of Mercy for 25 years. A former English teacher, she has always been fascinated by people’s life stories. Her website: www.tellingyourstory.net

Laurel Balyeat Morrison began her training in autobiographical writing with Liz Dossa in 2017. She became a small group facilitator for Listen to Your Life retreats in 2018 and the Mercy Center’s online course in 2021. Laurel has served as a minister and pastoral counselor, retiring after 45 years in January. She loves encouraging people to write and to learn from their life stories.  

CONTACT

For further assistance, contact us at (650) 340-7474 or mc@sistersofmercy.org

For more information visit: www.mercy-center.org

These are unprecedented times. If finances are an issue, please fill out a learning grant form here for a grant. We want to make sure our offerings are available to everyone.

CANCELLATIONS / REFUNDS

Mercy Center requires notice of cancellation in writing (email to mc@sistersofmercy.org) 1 week prior to the event for a full refund by check or 50% of the total program cost if the notice is received 3 days or less prior to the event.

No refund will be given if a retreatant leaves early or arrives late during a retreat. Out of consideration for others on the waiting list, please make a commitment to attend the entire retreat.