New Cohort begins June 2025. Runs 2025-26. Applications are open. Apply by December 31, 2024, and realize substantial savings
Apply now!

Retreats

Because we know real growth happens slowly over time, each retreat invites you to engage in particular spiritual practices, giving you space over the quarter to practice what you learned at the retreat and integrate it into your life and leadership. Within a nurturing community of spiritual companions, you will have monthly practice/reading assignments to support your experimentation with the curriculum.

SCROLL down to view dates, curriculum, retreat schedule, location, tuition, and application.

Cohort 16 - Retreat Dates

July 28-29, 2025
October 27-28, 2025
January 26-27, 2026
April 27-28, 2026
June 1-2, 2026

2025 Fall Refresher

Alumni Retreat:
October 6-7, 2025

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INFORMATION

Retreat
Schedule &
Curriculum

Sample Schedule

All retreats follow a similar format, as outlined below—click the down arrow to view. Between retreats, monthly practice assignments help you prepare and apply what you have learned. We aim to provide a safe space that fosters listening to how God is calling, empowering, and leading you in your journey toward wholeness for the well-being of others.

    • 12:45 pm — Arrival, check-in, refreshments / no lunch (Exception: The first retreat begins at 10 am, lunch included)

    • 1:00 pm — Welcome, Introductions, SESSION 1

    • 2:00 pm — SESSION 2: specific formational topic with helpful guidance for experiencing the spiritual practice, personally and in community

    • 2:30 pm — Break

    • 2:45 pm — SESSION 3

    • 4:00 pm — Trust Circles: spiritual direction groups of 5 with an experienced facilitator / remains the same

    • 6:00 pm — Re-gather to celebrate what has been given

    • 6:30 pm — Dinner with guided group reflection

    • 7:40 pm — Compline: night prayers

    • 8:00 pm — Depart in silence

    • Arrival in Silence by 8:45 am

    • 9:00 am — Centering / Morning Worship

    • 9:45 am — Break

    • 10:00 am — SESSION 4

    • 10:45 am — Reflection assignment to help solidify and integrate your learning

    • 11:45 am — Re-gather to celebrate what has been given

    • Noon — Lunch

    • 1:00 pm — Trust Circles for group spiritual direction (sharing on practice)

    • 2:00 pm — Break

    • 2:15 pm — SESSION 5: Empowering Spiritual Leaders

    • 3:15 pm — Closing Ritual and Departure

Curriculum Themes

Teaching content and formational activities are built around time-tested concepts that help us become more open, receptive, and responsive to God’s transforming grace and work in us. Click the down arrow for more about each theme.

  • A fresh encounter with God through Lectio Divina and Daily Examen

  • Learning God’s Language through Silence, Solitude, and Simplicity

  • Centering Prayer • Welcoming Prayer • Active/Breath Prayer

  • Ways of Recognizing and Responding to God’s Voice

  • Arranging our Lives for Spiritual Transformation

Location

Starrette Farm Retreat

School of the Spirit retreats are held at the Starrette Farm Retreat in Statesville, NC, a private homestead (est. 1888) spanning 25 acres of rolling woodland and walking trails. Affectionately called “The Farm,” this beautiful property is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the intersection of I-40 and I-77. Walking trails, a pond, a labyrinth, special spots for resting, journaling, community gathering, and more await you — click the buttons for more information.

School of the Spirit participants are responsible for their own overnight accommodations. Because Starrette Farm Retreat is a “day apart” venue, our collaborative partnership with two hotels, only seven minutes from the Farm, provides guests of day or multiple-day retreats with quality hotel amenities, complimentary breakfast, and discounted rooms! Details are provided upon your acceptance to School of the Spirit.

Tuition

The tuition for School of the Spirit’s twelve-month online and in-person experience includes meals, refreshments, instructors, retreat facility, supplies, and more. The value is $1,500 per student, but generous financial support makes it possible to offer School of the Spirit at a reduced price. Travel, lodging, books, and non-refundable application administrative fee not included. Refer here for What is Provided.

Apply early and save!

  • Early registration deadline: Dec, 31, 2024 = $950

  • Regular registration deadline: April 30, 2025 = $1,050

  • Late registration: May 1, 2025 and after = $1,150

Financial Assistance
If you are a WNCC United Methodist clergy, local pastor, or staff/lay ministry professional, this program qualifies for Spiritual Renewal Fund support. Reach out to Marsha Patton for grant application details (MPatton@wnccumc.org). Further assistance is available. If you are currently in a season of needing financial assistance, reach out to Ann Starrette (starrette@mindspring.com) to set a time for a phone conversation BEFORE you apply.

Application

Limited to 24 clergy, leaders, healing ministry providers, and thirsty pilgrims.

School of the Spirit is designed for clergy, lay ministry professionals, nonprofit and business leaders, and thirsty pilgrims who are profoundly dedicated to being formed by the Holy Spirit through practices that impact their choices, lives, and leadership.

If you have a quest…

  • To move more deeply and intentionally into your own process of inner transformation,

  • To be a part of a community of co-learners whose aim is to nurture that process,

  • To engage in quality materials and training intended to be passed on to others,

  • To commit to five quarterly retreats over a one-year time frame,

…then School of the Spirit is for you!