The Solitude Practice

Practicing The Way

In an increasingly distracted and noisy world, we need solitude more than ever. The practice of solitude mimics Jesus’ rhythm of retreat and return: retreat from people and distractions to be with God, in order to return to community in love and service.
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The Quiet Place

Solitude helps us break free from noise and distractions to be in the presence of God.

Encounter with our self

Through solitude, we face emotions that live below the surface of our lives and bring them to God.

Encounter with our enemy

Solitude helps quiet us so we can hear scriptural truth and fight against the enemies of our soul.

Encounter with our God

Solitude’s highest purpose is found by opening ourselves to God’s personal voice and enjoying his love.

Listen

Here are a few podcasts and sermon series that are helpful around the topic of solitude.

Podcast Episodes

Solitude 01: An introduction to the solitude practice
Solitude 02: The Quiet Place with John Ortberg
Solitude 03: Encountering Our Self with Bethany Allen
Solitude 04: Encountering Our Enemy with Ken Shigematsu
Solitude 05: Encountering Our God with Emily P. Freeman
Solitude 06: Question + Response

Read

If you'd like to delve deeper, here is a book that we recommend as you grow in the practice of solitude:

Invitation to Solitude and Silence: Experiencing God's Transforming Presence
by Ruth Haley Barton

Retreat

A recommendation during this course is to plan an extended retreat/time of solitude. Below are some local resources:

Retreat Centers
The Franciscan Renewal Center
Spirit in the Desert
 
Day Retreats
Canaan in the Desert 
Wonderful Mercy Prayer Garden 
Boyce Thompson Arboretum
St. Anthony's Monastery

 Other Ideas
Camping alone
VG Worship Center or Prayer Room (call for availability)