Beautiful autumn foliage and weather along the Hudson River greeted the weekend participants of the Lifescapes Annual Retreat on November 3-5, 2006.

Lifescapes is an intergenerational group that sponsors activities focused on evolving and spiritual interests of men and women.

Our theme this year at Mariandale Retreat Center in Ossining, NY—“Rest, Recreation and Spiritual Renewal”—replenished our spirits with guided activities, meditation, time alone and time together, thoughtfully led by our own Revs. Cheryl Walker and David Robb.

Friday evening was a time to welcome and meet new participants and renew acquaintances of former retreat participants.

Saturday was devoted to large and small group sessions inspired by one of Cheryl’s Sunday sermons. Rotating small-group sessions discussed and shared personal observations and experiences on topics such as: faith, grace, sin, Jesus, and prayer—concepts often present in discussions among Unitarians.

These sessions were followed by much cherished free time—alone or with newly formed “soul mates;” time to explore the wonderful grounds and hiking trails, walk the labyrinth, or watch the sun disappear behind the Palisades while enjoying the precious art of doing nothing.

After a rewarding dinner, and looking forward to our own distinctive “Saturday Night Lifescapes” soirée, Mother Nature provided an additional treat. The moon was glorious and Audrey Raden led a most rewarding moonlight walk. Even our own Central Park could not compete.

Participants in the
Lifescapes Retreat 2006.

Sunday morning, we participated in a lay service planned and presented by a group of our participants. Everyone felt renewed in body and spirit as we headed toward lunch.

As parting time neared, one heard comments such as: “Glad I came,” “Thanks for the generosity of learning and sharing,” “The feeling of renewal of spirit was as good as life-giving,” “I look forward to seeing you in church.”

Lovely photos documenting this special weekend were taken by the photographer Marianne Benjamin, and were recently on display in the glass display case outside the Forrest Church Gallery.