unity symbol Mountaintop Experience
~ Retreat ~

Sept 14-17, 2010

at Kanuga Conference Center,
Hendersonville NC

"The Divine Yes!"

Unity
Ministers
      of the
Mid-
Atlantic
States
Keynote Speakers Workshop Schedule Directions to Kanuga Registration Form

Join us in beautiful Hendersonville, North Carolina, for a wonderful time
to explore spiritual teachings,
relax and center yourself amidst the mountain splendor,
and enjoy playtime with fellow seekers!

Start the day with a Morning Meditation in the chapel... 

Or  wake up your body with gentle, healing Tai Chi with Chuck Blackburn on the pavilion overlooking the lake... mist rising... birds singing as the sun peeks over the pine trees reflected in the tranquil waters... ah...

Enjoy a wide variety of workshops offered by ministers from the Unity Ministers of the Mid-Atlantic States (UMMAS), as well as inspiring sessions with our keynote speakers.

Inspiring, original Music will fill the air and your hearts... including...

  • Dale Worley
  • Lytingale & Trilogy
  • Our fabulous Talent Show
Still your mind with Vespers in the quiet beauty of the Chapel of the Transfiguration... then drift off to dreamland.

For the seventh year, this retreat will be held at Kanuga Conference Center in scenic Western North Carolina ~ on 1,400 acres, six miles from Hendersonville at 2300' altitude. 

Kanuga is a beautiful facility in a peaceful, wooded setting, with a friendly staff.  Kanuga offers an outdoor labyrinth to walk, outdoor exercise trail, playing fields, tennis courts, hiking trails (varying degrees of difficulty), a scenic lake for boating (canoes & rowboats available for free), fishing, swimming in the lake (chilly but available), and a gymnasium.  (Project Adventure Ropes Course, 52-foot climbing tower, indoor climbing wall may be available for an additional charge.)  

Enjoy delicious food at the breakfast buffet and family-style lunches & dinners.  Accommodations include the 62-room Inn, and 46 two- to six-bedroom cottages (no a/c, but rooms have ceiling fans or box fans provided - temperature isn't usually a problem at this season. Some have shared bathrooms.)  There are plentiful rocking chairs overlooking the lake.

Kanuga Conference Center is reached from I-26, and is served by the Asheville, NC airport (30-minute drive) or Greenville-Spartanburg, SC airport (60-minute drive). Directions to Kanuga. 

Area attractions include the world-famous Biltmore House (French chateau-style mansion, gardens, winery), Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site (tour of house, goat barns, hiking) very near, the Flat Rock Playhouse, the Blue Ridge Parkway, downtown Asheville, Chimney Rock Park, Pisgah National Forest (Cradle of Forestry, Sliding Rock, waterfalls, Pisgah Inn), excellent golf nearby, shopping in nearby historic downtown Hendersonville, arts & crafts, and antiques. Click for Links to more area info.


Kanuga Inn


A Guest house at Kanuga

We offer a Children's Program & Nursery care from 9am until 9:30pm (during workshops & programs)

The experience begins with dinner on Tuesday evening
and lasts until 11:00 am Friday.
Fees include: 8 meals (3 dinners, 2 lunches, 3 breakfasts), 3 nights lodging,
and all workshops and children's programs.

Join the fun!
We'll see you on the mountaintop!

"Words cannot express the joy & peace I brought home with me from the Spiritual Retreat..... It was a pleasure to meet you & so many new friends.  As I start my Path down the Unity journey, I'll always remember the joy & peace that fills me now.  Sincerely, Yvonne" 

Massages & Bodywork by local professionals will be available for a separate love offering that you give to the bodyworker. Please indicate on your registration form that you plan to treat yourself to bodywork, so we can plan times and availability.

Click here for Registration Form

2010 Keynote Speaker: www.ummas.org/RetreatKeynote.html

Mary Manin Morrissey

"Empowering Your Dream"

During this workshop, we will go on a journey together and during this journey there is an opportunity, should you choose to take it, to absolutely discover—and then find that you can deliver—the dreams of your own heart. 

Are you Ready to live a life of  Passion and Purpose?

Schedule     (subject to revision!)

Tuesday

2:00-7:00 pm ~ Registration - in the lobby

6:00 - 7:00 pm  ~ Dinner together at Kanuga

7:00-7:30 pm ~ Welcome & Introduction - Erin Kosak, Program Chair (Charleston SC)

7:30-9:00 pm ~ Welcome Celebration - Be prepared to laugh, have fun, and start new friendships. -Rev. Dale Worley (Savannah GA) & Erin Kosak (Charleston SC)

after evening program (about 9:40):

  • Vespers ~ Rev. Lisa Thorpe (Columbia SC)- Chapel of the Transfiguration

Wednesday

7:00 - 8:00 am ~ Tai Chi ~ Centuries-old Oriental exercise and healing method emphasizes slow, controlled movements & connection to Chi energy. Simple enough for beginners, yet beneficial techniques to maintain your health for a lifetime. - Master Chuck Blackburn (Asheville, NC) - Pavilion by the Lake

7:30 - 8:00 am ~ Morning Meditation ~ Herb Pierson (Morehead City NC)- Chapel of the Transfiguration

8:00-8:45 am ~ Breakfast

9:00 - 10:30 am

  • Keynote Speaker: Rev. Mary Manin Morrissey: :"Empowering Your Dream"  

10:45 - 12:15 (choose one)

  • "Divine Listening" ~ Divine Listening is about awakening to our inner greatness and excellence. Through its practice, we become willing to listen and receive Divine ideas – hearing what wants to be born in us and what is seeking to emerge. Because, the one thing the Universe desires most, is to express itself as our life. When we practice deep listening – we hear our “Sacred Yes,” to life, activating our intuition and the evolutionary impulse of life. Come and “listen” to what your life wants you to know. Rev. Terrence Padgett (Augusta GA)- St. Johns Room

  • Yoga  ~ Stretch into your divine nature with this ancient practice for body and mind.  No experience necessary.  Bring a mat or towel/blanket. -Balthus-Rodwell Building 

12:30 -1:30 ~ Lunch

1:45 - 3:15 (choose one)

  • "Miracle Shifts for Shifting Times" ~ Change how you think and feel about the shifts happening in your life and in the world right now. Move out of survival thinking into thrival thinking.  Learn about Psych-K, Brain Gym & how to give & receive hands-on healing. Learn how to instantly release self-defeating thoughts and "in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye" create energetic, life-affirming, empowering thoughts. - Revs. David & Margaret Hiller (Myrtle Beach SC) 

  • "Walking with the Divine: Lake Walk" with Herb Pierson (Morehead City NC) ~ A gentle, Thich Nhat Hahn meditative walk around the beautiful lake.  Very slow, very deep, present moment, beautiful moment. 

3:30 - 5:00 

  • "The Divine Whatever!" ~ Don't miss hooking up with Rev. Chad and Lytingale for a DE-Lyte-FULL hour, or so, full of  mirth, music, and metaphysics dedicated to exploring the conundrum, "What is this thing called "TRUTH?"  Yes, that TRUTH, the Truth He claimed would "set us free," WHATEVER that's supposed to mean. "FREE FROM WHAT?" and "HOW?" come to mind.  If working puzzles intrigues you . . . jump in . . . get your beliefs wet . . . see if they hold water.  If you're content to stay dry . . . don't step in "WHATEVER!" - Rev. Chad O'Shea & Lytingale (Mills River NC)

  • Kayaks & Boats with Doug ~ Have you ever wanted to paddle a canoe or kayak around the lake on a beautiful afternoon? Here’s your chance! Join Rev Doug for some simple basic instructions, and an enjoyable outing on the lake. Rev. Doug Werth (Chattanooga TN)

5:00 - 6:00 - Free time ~ enjoy the beauty of Kanuga Conference Center or go visit some of attractions in our area!

 

6:00 - 7:00 ~ Dinner

7:30 - 8:00pm

  • Music  by Trilogy ~ original music by a trio from the dynamic music department at Unity Center in Mills River NC.  Trilogy: Lytingale (vocals, keyboard), Georgia Pressman (flute), Joel Pressman (bass), with special guest Katie O'Shea (vocals).  (Mills River, Hendersonville, & Asheville, NC)

8:00 - 9:30pm

  • Keynote Speaker: Rev. Mary Manin Morrissey: :"Empowering Your Dream"  
after evening program (about 9:40):
  • Vespers ~ Rev. Chad O'Shea & Lytingale (Mills River NC)- Chapel of the Transfiguration

Thursday

7:00 - 8:00 am ~ Tai Chi ~ Centuries-old Oriental exercise and healing method emphasizes slow, controlled movements & connection to Chi energy. Simple enough for beginners, yet beneficial techniques to maintain your health for a lifetime. - Master Chuck Blackburn (Asheville, NC) - Pavilion by the Lake

7:30 -8:00 am ~ Morning Meditation ~ Rev. Ed Kosak (Charleston SC)

8:00-8:45 am ~ Breakfast

9:00 - 10:30am

  • Keynote Speaker: Rev. Mary Manin Morrissey: :"Empowering Your Dream"  

10:45am - 12:15pm (choose one)

  • "Drawing the Divine: Everyone's an Artist" ~ Come allow your Christ Nature to play!  It's all about letting go and letting flow with pen and paint.  Suggested materials fee of $5. - led by artist & Unity member, Lissa Pierson (Morehead City  NC)

  • "Divine Guidance" ~ The Universal Intelligence is constantly speaking to us in many ways. But, are we hearing what is being said? Learning to recognize the voice of Spirit is one of the keys to living more fully. In this workshop you will learn some of the ways that guidance can show up in your life. When you know where to look and what to listen for you become more confident on your spiritual path. God is speaking - are you listening? -Rev. James King (Greenville SC)

  • Walking with the Divine: Mountain Walk ~with Herb Pierson (Morehead City NC) ~ A gentle climb of our feet to climb in our heart.  See the new perspective from the top and know it is the vision of your heart. 

12:30-1:30 ~ Lunch

1:45 - 3:15pm (choose one)

  • "Dancing with the Divine" ~ Join Dale Worley for an hour of spiritual communion with our Selves, each Other, and the Divine, as he uses music, movement, dance, rhythm and sacred touch to facilitate a heart opening and mystical experience of Oneness and Freedom.  Wear loose clothing, take off your shoes, and let yourself go! - Dale Worley (Savannah GA)

  • "Divine Climbing" ~ Experience powerful 'breakthrough' energy, challenge yourself to soar to new heights, transcend limiting beliefs and feel your innate courage, strength, and creative wisdom. Receive group support and lots of 'go for it' energy to do a 40' climb on the Outdoor Climbing Wall at Kanuga. We all face our 'Walls.'  This is a great opportunity to 'climb those walls, get over it and get on with it.' Cost:  $20 Fee to be paid with pre-registration. - Rev. David Hiller (Myrtle Beach SC) and Rev. Sheryl Padgett (Augusta GA)
  •  

3:30 - 5:00pm

  • "The Lord's Prayer as our Best Psychologist & Spiritual Guide" ~ As we learn the Aramaic words and their English translations, this prayer comes alive and we learn how to use it as an on-the-spot psychologist that uncovers hidden barriers and open doors to that "life more abundant" as promised by our Way-shower. This is the one and only prayer left to us by Jesus. -Herb Pierson (Morehead City NC)

  • "Do Greater Things" ~ In John 14:12 Jesus tells us, “Those of you who believe in me will do what I do and greater.” Rev. Felicia Blanco-Searcy, author of Do Greater Things: Following in Jesus’ Footsteps (published by Unity House), believes it is time for us to take this line seriously. Join Rev. Felicia as together we discover the works Jesus wants us to repeat and the path he gave us in order to achieve this mighty endeavor. The world needs each one of us to step into our Christed Selves in order to bring about the Kingdom of Heaven here on earth. Rev. Felicia presents what Jesus modeled and taught as He urges us to repeat his works individually so that together we can do greater things. www.feliciablancosearcy.com. - Rev. Felicia Blanco-Searcy (Murfreesboro TN)

5:00 - 6:00pm

  • Free time.... Walk around the lake... check out a canoe or rowboat...  Nearby attractions include the Carl Sandburg Home National Historic Site (tour of house, goat barns, hiking), Flat Rock Playhouse, golf at Crooked Creek, shopping in nearby historic downtown Hendersonville, arts & crafts, and antiques. Click for Links to more area info.

6:00 - 7:00 ~ Dinner

7:00 - 9:30 pm

  • Talent Show ~ Get out your talent—this is YOUR time to shine in an evening of fun and surprises!  We applaud your talents!  Sign up at Registration if you want to perform.  Facilitator & Emcee: Rev. Bruce Milne (Chapel Hill NC)

after evening program (about 9:40):

  •  Vespers ~ A Sacred Drumming & Chanting Circle ~ connect with God by chanting and drumming.  A great way to "come down" after a high energy night! Led by Rev. Ed & Erin Kosak (Charleston SC)

Friday

7:00 - 8:00 am ~ Tai Chi ~ Centuries-old Oriental exercise and healing method emphasizes slow, controlled movements & connection to Chi energy. Simple enough for beginners, yet beneficial techniques to maintain your health for a lifetime. - Master Chuck Blackburn (Asheville, NC) -Pavilion by the Lake

7:30 - 8:00 am ~ Morning Meditation ~ Rev. Doug Werth (Chattanooga TN) 

8:00-8:45 am ~ Breakfast

9:00 - 10:30 ~ Closing Program ~ We're so glad we've had this time together! In this hour, we will bless each other through the sacred experience of The Oneness Blessing before heading out on the Road of Life! The Oneness Blessing is an intelligent energy that balances the activity of the two hemispheres of the brain, leads to the flowering of the heart, and helps the individual to deepen one's own spiritual practice. This simple hands-on blessing can: Help one experience the Divine Within; Quiet inner conflict; Bring healing to relationships. Rev. Richard & Maureen Levy (Wilmington NC)

Daily

  • 7:00-8:00 a.m. - Tai Chi for Health ~ with Master Chuck Blackburn - Centuries-old Oriental exercise and healing method emphasizes slow, controlled movements & connection to Chi energy. Simple enough for beginners, yet beneficial techniques to maintain your health for a lifetime. --Held at the Cunningham-Nevius Pavilion overlooking the rising mist and the soaring birds on the Lake.
  • 7:30-8:00 a.m. – Morning Meditation ~ Enter your day totally relaxed with a gentle Morning Meditation, led by one of our Unity ministers in the lovely Chapel of the Transfiguration

  • Evening Vespers ~ Begins 10-15 minutes after the evening program ends (about 9:40pm)  Finish your day with prayer and meditation, led by one of our Unity ministers, in the peacefulness of the Chapel of the Transfiguration

  • Sacred Path Labyrinth - an archetypal symbol of wholeness that invites one into a transformational prayer experience. Walking this mystical path is a personal pilgrimage to spiritual wholeness. A permanent outdoor Labyrinth is available near our meeting room.

  • Bodywork ~ a variety of styles of healing bodywork & massage offered by skilled practitioners, available by appointment, for a love offering you give to the practitioner.

  • Want to talk?~ The ministers of UMMAS are available to you - just ask!
  • Meals are served in Dietz Dining Room (seats 224). Tables of eight provide opportunity for conversation.
    • Breakfast Buffet: 8:00-8:45am  -with selections from French toast to grits to fruit
    • Family style Lunch: 12:30pm with a salad bar and soup
    • Family style Dinner: 6:00 pm
    • Thursday's Dinner is a Barbeque in the Pavilion by the Lake (weather permitting)

Click here for REGISTRATION FORM with full pricing details.

COMMUTERS: For local people or for those who wish to stay off-site:
  • Cost: $65 per day  -or-  $175 for whole retreat.
  • Early Bird Commuter Discount: $125 for whole retreat when you Pre-register before August 15.
  • Price includes 5 meals (daily Lunch & Dinner) but only IF you Pre-register in advance. (You may register on arrival, but meals at Kanuga will not be included!)
  • Commuters only should contact Unity Center, 2041 Old Fanning Bridge Rd, Mills River NC (828) 891-8700 or unity@unitync.net to Pre-register.  

Questions? Call (423) 755-7990 or
send e-mail to Registrar, Unity - Chattanooga, TN
or contact your local UMMAS church

Registration accepted by mail with check or credit card; or by email, phone, or fax with credit card.
We can accept credit cards for full/partial payment only until Sept. 8th!
Balance due at check-in must be paid with CASH or CHECK! 

 

  • If you cancel your registration, there will be a Cancellation Fee of $50 to cover administrative costs.
  • Deposits are NON-REFUNDABLE after Sept 1st!
  • A refund of your Deposit may possibly be granted for medical or family emergencies, but only if approved by Registrar and UMMAS President or Officers.
  • Changes in Status:   If you have stayed 1 or more nights and then choose to move off campus and become a commuter, NO refund of fees can be given (because UMMAS has to pay the whole fee to Kanuga!), and you are still entitled to meals at Kanuga (they were part of the fee). If you choose to become a commuter at check-in before you stay on the grounds, your Deposit will be used to offset the Commuter fee (no other refund) and you must purchase your own meals. Thanks for your cooperation.

Directions to Kanuga Conference Center

By Auto:   (Note: they changed the I-26 Exit numbers in 2005!)

From I-40: near Asheville, take I-26 East to Exit 49-B (Old Exit 18-B / Rt 64 west) go 2.3 miles into Hendersonville, turn left on US 25 South (Church St) for 9 blocks, go right on Kanuga Street for 3.75 miles. Turn right onto Kanuga Lake Road (small Kanuga Conference sign). Go 1.25 miles, Turn right on Kanuga Chapel Drive (big sign). Continue thru the stop sign to the first paved parking lot on the left (@ 1/2 mile) to Main Lobby. (from Asheville, Greensboro, Winston-Salem, Raleigh, Wilmington, Knoxville, Cookeville, Nashville, etc.)

From I-26 & points south: West on I-26: Take Exit 53 (Old Exit 22) on Upward Rd (becomes Highland Lake Rd) to its end; turn left onto NC 225 (Greenville Hwy), to traffic light at Flat Rock Playhouse, then right on Little River Road to its end, then right on Kanuga Road, and immediate left on to Kanuga Lake Road (small Kanuga Conference sign). Go 1.25 miles, Turn right on Kanuga Chapel Drive (big sign). Continue thru the stop sign to the first paved parking lot on the left (@ 1/2 mile) to Main Lobby.  (from Spartanburg, Columbia, Charleston, Savannah, Myrtle Beach, etc.)

From I-85 at Greenville, SC:  US 25 North (White Horse Road exit) and follow that highway up the mountain into NC.  Watch carefully for Exit #5 (Flat Rock) turn left on 2-lane NC 225 to second traffic light (at Flat Rock Playhouse). Turn left on Little River Road to its end, then right on Kanuga Road, and immediate left on to Kanuga Lake Road (small Kanuga Conference sign). Go 1.25 miles, Turn right on Kanuga Chapel Drive (big sign). Continue thru the stop sign to the first paved parking lot on the left (@ 1/2 mile) to Main Lobby.  (from Greenville, Atlanta, etc.)

By Air:  Accessible from:

  • Asheville, NC airport ("AVL") (25 minute drive)
  • Greenville-Spartanburg, SC ("GSP") (1 hour drive)
  • Charlotte, NC Douglas ("CLT")(2 hour drive)

Visit the UMMAS website

Click to join UMMASRetreat  Click to join the UMMAS Retreat Group
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Comments on this page? Please send them to the Webmaster.

Past Retreats:
2009 Retreat: www.ummas.org/Retreat2009.html
2008 Retreat: www.ummas.org/Retreat2008.html
2007 Retreat: www.ummas.org/Retreat2007.html
2006 Retreat: www.ummas.org/Retreat2006.html

Last modified: 2010-05-24
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