Events Calendar

Lower-Cost Camping or Cabin Options Available

Living in the Presence

"Summoned or not, God is present." Carl Jung

How do we experience this presence?

Perhaps as important, how do we share that experience with others?

How do we take our deepest Quaker truth and practice the presence of the Holy in the public square?

Come join Friends and fellow seekers as we explore together our experiences of the Presence of Spirit. (We might each name the Spirit differently: the Holy One, God, Christ, Light, Higher Power, or Ground of All Being.) We'll offer stories about how we have come to recognize this Presence within ourselves and beyond ourselves. And we'll share practices that Friends have actively engaged as ways of opening ourselves to this Presence. There will be some teaching and some time for reflection around adding or deepening spiritual practice in our daily routines. Plus time for rest, fellowship and fun! Please consider joining us.

The retreat will begin with supper on Friday, September 19th, followed by our opening circle. There will be two sessions on Saturday (morning and afternoon) with an evening of festive fellowship and singing. Our Sunday morning session will be followed by Meeting for Worship and lunch. Departure is immediately after lunch.

Retreat participants will receive a detailed welcome email and pre-retreat exercise about one week before the retreat. If you have questions as the retreat nears, please contact the program registrar, Amy Schmaljohn at amy@schmaljohn.com.

Spiritual nurture funds are available through both local Meetings and through the Yearly Meeting. The retreat welcomes all of us who seek a deeper life in and with Spirit.

Overview:
The BYM Camps are vibrant, diverse, and youth-centered communities that welcome families with open arms. Family Camp is an opportunity to introduce camp life to those not yet camp age or to families who want to join us for a peaceful and joyful weekend immersed in nature, community, and Quaker values.

Information:
This year, our Family Camp will be held at Opequon Quaker Camp at Rolling Ridge Conversancy! Designed for families of all shapes and sizes, this retreat offers a mix of fun outdoor activities, shared meals, and meaningful connection. Enjoy hiking, art-making, fire circle and songs, work projects and family fun activities; all in a spirit of simplicity, equality, and togetherness. At Family Camp, the Spirit leads — but diaper changes and snack times are still up to you! Please provide your own childcare as we journey together in community. Whether you're reconnecting with camp or discovering it for the first time, this is a chance to slow down, be present, and grow closer with loved ones and new friends.
Pricing:
$100 per adult
$75 per child (ages 0–18)
Lodging Options:
✔️ Cabins or camp-provided tents
✔️ Bring your own tent for your family
✔️ Lodge available (limited availability; priority for disabled Friends)