From The Restory - Conversations On The Journey (219)

Contemplative Gathering 2026

We warmly invite you to the second Contemplative Gathering in Wakkerstroom.

From Belonging to Life

Last year, we discovered together what it means to belong—to find a restful home for the soul in God’s presence and with one another. This year, we move deeper into the fruit of that homecoming: Fully alive.

What does it mean to be truly alive in a world that so often overwhelms, numbs, or pulls us away from the present moment?

The Path of Presence

Christian contemplative spirituality is not an escape from life, but a journey into deep engagement with it. It is the intentional choice to become still, to quiet the noise, and to be present to the Eternal with an open heart. Here, we discover that the Spirit does not merely call us to survival or duty, but to an abundant, conscious life.

In the shared silence, the exchanging of stories, and the restful rhythm of the weekend, we rediscover the pulse of this ancient, time-tested path. You are not alone on this journey; come and find new inspiration alongside fellow travelers.

What to Expect

This weekend is not a typical, structured retreat, but a spacious gathering in the historic village of Wakkerstroom. The program is intentionally designed to allow your soul to breathe:

Meditative sessions & reflection: Time to simply be.

Cherished togetherness: Group and panel discussions where we exchange practical wisdom.

Sanctuaries of silence: The village’s beautiful historic church buildings will be open for personal quiet and reflection.

Contemplative service: Sunday evening in one of the historic churches in Wakkerstroom. The service will be led by ds. Peet Boshoff.

Program

Friday, 7 Aug 2026

17:00 – 19:00 Welcome in Wakkerstroom Soup and Bread

19:00 – 21:00 Opening: Entering the Gathering

Saturday, 8 Aug 2026

06:30 – 08:00 Mindful walk, Meditative sitting, Crane viewing

08:00 – 09:30 Breakfast Self-catering

09:30 – 11:00 Session 1: “Fully Alive – What does it mean?”

11:00 – 11:30 Tea / Coffee

11:30 – 13:00 Session 2: “Fully Alive – How?”

13:00 – 14:00 Lunch Self-catering

14:00 – 18:00 Explore Wakkerstroom, Rest

18:00 – 21:00 Braai & Bonfire Bring your own meat & drinks

21:00 Quiet night

Sunday, 9 Aug 2026

06:30 – 08:00 Mindful walk, Meditative sitting

08:00 – 09:30 Breakfast Self-catering

09:30 – 11:00 Session 3: “Fully Alive - Panel discussion”

11:00 – 11:30 Tea / Coffee

11:30 – 13:00 Session 4: “Fully Alive – Where?”

13:00 – 14:00 Lunch @ The Restory Bring and share

14:00 – 18:00 Explore Wakkerstroom, Rest

18:00 – 21:00 Contemplative service

21:00 Quiet night

Monday, 10 Aug 2026

06:30 – 09:00 Mindful walk, Meditative sitting

09:00 – 10:00 Joint breakfast – Wakkerstroom: Closing and summary

10:00 – Farewell and departure

Practical Arrangements

Venue: Wakkerstroom (Sessions take place in the village; guests arrange their own accommodation in the various local establishments).

Language: The Gathering will be conducted in English and Afrikaans

For more information and the link to the booking form:

Booking Form

With our love.

George & Matilda

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