unity symbol Mountaintop Experience
~ People's Retreat ~
and SE Unity Ministries Conference

Sept 13-16, 2011

at Kanuga Conference Center,
Hendersonville NC

"Life Changing - Heart-Centered Breakthrough"

 Printable Flyer: www.ummas.org/Retreat11Flyer.pdf
and www.ummas.org/Retreat11FlyerFront.pdf

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!

We welcome the ministers of the SE Unity region who are joining us at Retreat this year!  We eagerly await experiencing the synergy from combining our annual UMMAS People's Retreat with the SE Minister's Conference.  We know that you will enjoy the energy of the people of UMMAS, as we delight in the opportunity to connect with ministers from all over our region.

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 & friends. (Savannah GA)
  • Lytingale & Trilogy
  • Our fabulous Spirit Sharing Talent Show
Still your mind with Vespers in the quiet beauty of the Chapel of the Transfiguration... then drift off to dreamland.

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 cottages 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 Nursery & Child 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

2011 Keynote Speaker: www.ummas.org/RetreatKeynote.html

Bishop Carlton Pearson

 

The ministry and message of Rev. Carlton Pearson is committed to reconciling our differences, celebrating our diversity, and acknowledging our oneness in the world and in worship.

 

You will be inspired by the amazing story he shares about how he walked away from a mainline mega church to embrace a message of inclusivity and a deeper spirituality.  He is a dynamic speaker, author and singer who has already been through his dark night of the soul and now calls himself a New Thought Minister.  You won't want to miss this very special Keynote Presenter!

 

Pearson's topic: "What You Want Wants You"

Featured Guest Speakers

 

Dr. Charlotte Shelton

Charlotte Shelton, M. Ed., has served as president and chief executive officer of Unity since July 2006. Previously, she was chair of the Management Division at the Helzberg School, Rockhurst University, and a visiting professor in Peking University's International MBA program, Beijing, China. Charlotte has also owned her own consulting business, WiseWork, and has held senior management positions in financial services and energy organizations. Actively involved in Unity for more than 30 years, she is the author of Quantum Leaps: 7 Skills for Workplace Re-Creation, and coauthor of The NeXt Revolution: What Gen X Women Want at Work and How Their Boomer Bosses Can Help Them Get It and Good Business: Putting Spiritual Principles Into Practice at Work.

Presenting Skills For Quantum Living on Thursday morning, 9am-12:15pm

Rev. Dr. Thomas W. Shepherd

Rev. Shepherd teaches metaphysical and systematic theology, church history, theological ethics and world religions at Unity Institute and Seminary. Although best known for his popular Q&A column “That’s a Good Question” in Unity Magazine, he is the author of several books, including Friends in High Places, Glimpses of Truth, Good Questions, and a new book, Jesus 2.1: An Upgrade for the 21st Century. 

Presenting What Lens Are You Wearing on Wednesday morning, 10:45am-12:15pm

Schedule     (subject to revision!)

Tuesday

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

3:30-5:30pm ~ SE Unity Ministries General Business Meeting (for ministers & licensed teachers only) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

6:00 - 7:00 pm  ~ Dinner together at Kanuga (included with your registration) -Dining Hall

7:30-9:00 pm ~ Welcome Celebration - Be prepared to laugh, have fun, and start new friendships. Music by Dale Worley & friends. (Savannah GA) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

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 ~ Rev. Neusom Holmes (Raleigh NC) - Chapel of the Transfiguration

8:00-8:45 am ~ Breakfast -Dining Hall

9:00 - 10:30 am

10:45 - 12:15 (choose one)

  • What Lens Are You Wearing? ~ There will always be a wide diversity of ideas about the nature of God, the importance of Jesus in the constellation of world religious teachers, and the ultimate meaning of life. Consider what lenses you’re wearing. Rev. Dr. Thomas Shepherd (Unity Village)  -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

  • Getting to Know Me ~ Drawing upon ancient wisdom traditions, the Enneagram is a powerful tool for self-discovery and transcendence. Come learn more about the embedded forces driving your personality and how to bring them into balance. Rev. Ogun Holder (Raleigh, NC) -St John's Room

  • Yoga  ~ Stretch into your divine nature with this ancient practice for body and mind.  No experience necessary.  Bring a mat or towel/blanket. Instructor Deborah-Marie Diamond is a master healer and teacher of the spiritual arts. She has integrated the best of quantum physics, vibrational medicine, mind/body therapies, psychology, world religions, and shamanism to create Light and Sound Healing the New Medicine for people, animals, and land. Deborah-Marie Diamond (Asheville NC) -Calhoun Building 

12:30 -1:30 ~ Lunch -Dining Hall

1:45 - 3:15 (3 choices - pick one)

  • Everyone is an Artist ~ Come allow your Christ Nature to play! It’s all about letting go and
    getting in touch with your creativity. ~ Lissa Pierson (Morehead City NC) & Leah King (Greenville SC) -Pavilion by the Lake

  • Contemplative Walk ~ A gentle, meditative walk around the beautiful Kanuga grounds. Very slow, very deep, present moment, beautiful moment. ~ Rev. Margaret Hiller (Myrtle Beach SC)

  •  2011 – The Time to “Go for It and Do Great Things” ~ Quantum shifts are happening! There has never been a better time than now to claim our magnificence and do great things. In the workshop, we will experience powerful hands-on healing, techniques to quickly shift out of the ego and into the heart, and an exceptional Angel healing wash that will touch your heart and let your spirit soar. ~ David Hiller (Myrtle Beach SC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

  • Life Visioning ~ The reason you have been born is to reveal the Glory of your Divine
    essence as only you can do. The question is, “What is God’s Idea of Itself – as your life?” Come and explore this question as Rev. Terrence Padgett leads you in a “Life Visioning Meditation” as taught by Rev. Dr. Michael Beckwith. ~ Rev. Terrence Padgett (Vero Beach, FL)     -St John's Room

3:30 - 5:00  (3 choices - pick one)

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

  • Meditation for Personal Benefit and Spiritual Growth ~ Meditation is a powerful tool for awakening spiritually and for enhancing health and well being in every area of our lives. Learn this
    simple scientific approach to spiritual awakening, reducing stress, improving immune function, improving concentration, clear thinking and creativity, refining the nervous system and improving intellectual and intuitive powers. We will share effective meditation techniques, guidelines for conscious living and have an opportunity to practice together. ~ Rev. Ron Lindahn (Dillard GA) -St John's Room

  • Enlightened Minds Interviews ~ Join with Rev. James as he interviews some of history’s finest minds: Susan B. Anthony, Ralph Waldo Emerson, Mark Twain and a Surprise Guest. These amazing people have great wisdom to share with us ... they have already lived it. What would these historical figures have to say about our modern culture? They have an opinion about everything and you won’t believe what they have to say! ~ Rev. James King (Greenville SC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

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 -BBQ at Pavilion by the Lake (weather permitting)

7:30 - 8:00pm

  • Music  by Trilogy ~ original music by a duo from the dynamic music department at Unity Center in Mills River NC.  Lytingale (vocals, keyboard), Dave De la Rosa (vocals, guitar).  (Mills River, Hendersonville, & Asheville, NC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

8:00 - 9:30pm

after evening program (about 9:40):
  • Vespers ~ Rev. Neusom Holmes & Rev. Jennifer Holder - 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 ~ Marie Pare (Wilmington NC) - Chapel of the Transfiguration

8:00-8:45 am ~ Breakfast -Dining Hall

9:00 - 12:15am

  • Skills For Quantum Living ~ This session will present 7 Quantum Skills for creating meaningful
    lives of purpose and passion. The 7 Quantum Skills are ancient and futuristic, spiritual and scientific. They tie timeless Unity principles to state-of-the art research in quantum physics and chaos theory. This session will open your heart and engage your mind, enabling you to take a quantum leap towards living the life of your dreams. ~ Charlotte Shelton (Unity Village) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

12:30-1:30 ~ Lunch -Dining Hall

1:45 - 3:15pm (3 choices - pick one)

  • Ho’oponopono ~ Ho’oponopono is a Hawaiian prayer practice the frees both the prayer and situation. Remarkably powerful and simple, Ho’oponopono has healed a whole psychiatric ward and transformed relationships. Truly a powerful way to “renew you mind."~ Rev. Neusom Holmes (Raleigh NC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

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

  • Power Point for Every Church: It’s Not Just for Lyrics Anymore ~  Are you ready to bring variety to your Sunday morning service? Then join Rev. Sydney Magill-Lindquist as she introduces you to a vast array of ways to use Power Point. This workshop will not only have you up and singing but also help you discover all the ways Power Point can be used in small and large churches for not only songs and lyrics but for Congregational Meetings, weddings, events and farewells. ~ Rev. Sydney Lindquist (GA) -Calhoun Building 

3:30 - 5:00pm (3 choices - pick one)

  •  Mellowing the Drama Continued ~ Rev. Chad O’Shea and Lytingale invite you to join them for a mystical/musical inquiry into the nature of the human predicament. We’ll explore the question, “How did we become so adept at turning our “Garden of Eden” into a “Rock and a Hard Place?” And then, we’ll play with some empowering strategies for maintaining “a peace that passes
    understanding” right in the middle of a “crowd of sorrows.” There’s an invitation carved on our souls from the very beginning to sing and laugh and learn and love. Rev. Chad O'Shea & Lytingale (Mills River NC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

  • Hiking With the Divine: Mountain Walk ~ 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. ~ Herb Pearson

  • Labyrinth Workshop ~ Labyrinths are energy patterns placed on the ground for people to walk. They are used for healing, introspection, meditation, prayer, pilgrimage and transformation. In this experiential class you will learn some of the history of labyrinths, how to create them and how to use them. ~ Master-Instructor & Labyrinth Designer Sam Richardson (Hendersonville NC) -meet at Labyrinth (near Balthis-Rodwell)

  • Teaching 202 and Beyond  (3:30-5:30) ~ All Licensed Unity Teachers, Ministers, and Spiritual Leaders are welcome to attend. Shirley Kennedy, Licensed Unity Teacher Coordinator (Unity Village MO) -Calhoun Building 

5:00 - 6:00pm

  • Free time.... Walk around the lake... check out a kayak 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 - Dining Hall

7:00 - 9:30 pm

  • Spirit Sharing ~ 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: Joel Blackford (Atlanta GA) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

after evening program (about 9:40):

  •  Vespers ~ Rev. Chad O'Shea & Lytingale (Mills River NC) - Chapel of the Transfiguration

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. Rene Pare (Wilmington NC) - Chapel of the Transfiguration

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 before heading out on the Road of Life! ~ Rev. Richard & Maureen Levy (Wilmington NC) -Balthis-Rodwell Bldg

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.
Audio & Video

Events held in Balthis-Rodwell only will be both videotaped and audio recorded.  (Events in other buildings/rooms will NOT.)

  • DVDs will be available for sale during the retreat, or may be ordered and mailed.  Order in Balthis-Rodwell, and pick up in the Main Lobby near the Dining Hall at meal-times.
  • Audio recordings will be available by Sept 22 in 2 formats:
    1. Online download at unitymillsriver.bandcamp.com, for $5 per workshop
    2. CD to be mailed to you for $10 per workshop (plus $5 shipping per Order).
    (Audio recordings  will NOT be available on-site during the retreat.)

DVD/CD Order Form: ummas.org/Retreat2011AVOrder.pdf

Special Keynote Combo Pack: $25 for 4 workshops on DVD or CD [Carlton Pearson (2), Thomas Shepherd, Charlotte Shelton] (plus $5 shipping per order)

Audio Downloads: $5 per workshop:  unitymillsriver.bandcamp.com (VISA/Mastercard/Discover/AmEx or PayPayl)

Directions to Kanuga Conference Center
130 Kanuga Chapel Drive
Hendersonville, North Carolina 28739

By Auto: 

From I-40: near Asheville, take I-26 East to Exit 49-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 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:
2010 Retreat: www.ummas.org/Retreat2010.html
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: 2011-09-12
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