About this Retreat
David is an ordained elder in The United Methodist Church, as well as a Benedictine monk, as a member of the dispersed St. Brigid of Kildare monastery. David is a trained spiritual director and retreat leader, and served as the chaplain at Ohio Northern University for eleven years, located in Ada, Ohio. David was named the Director of Osage Forest of Peace in January of 2024.
Details of this retreat
Are you seeking a deeper connection with the Divine and your fellow human beings?
Have you ever wondered if there might be a way to become a companion or guide for those who are seeking the Sacred?
Are you longing for a space of reflection and renewal in this season of your life?
If so, this course may be for you! Join us on a six-week course, including a weekend retreat at the Forest, as the first step in the emergence of our new Academy of Spiritual Companions.
This course, taught by David MacDonald, draws on the book Anam Cara by John O’Donohue, as well as other supplemental articles and weekly discussions, in order to provide participants with an introduction to spiritual growth and formation, and to help build practices and skills for a life of spiritual companionship.
Each week we’ll explore a theme that deepens our understanding of companionship with the Divine, one another, and ourselves
February 3 "Anam Cara"
Welcome and Introductions to one another and the course; Setting our intentions for the course.
February 10 “The Mystery of Friendship”
During this session, we will explore the multiple meanings of friendship, what “soul friendship” entails, and how you can build soul friendships in your own life.
February 17 “Silence is the Sister of the Divine”
During this session, we will explore the role of silence in contemplative life, particularly in the context of soul companionship, as well as how silence can become a source of strength in your relationships and daily life.
February 24 “Heartful Work Brings Beauty”
During this session, we will explore the relationship between the contemplative life and the active life of our everyday encounters, and how to maintain a balance between the two.
March 3 “Aging-An Invitation to New Solitude”
During this session, we will explore spiritual formation across the lifespan, with special emphasis on the stages of life that we find ourselves in now.
March 10 “A Beautiful Death”
During this session, we will explore the meaning of death and dying in the context of a contemplative life, as well as how to be present to the process of dying with those we love and cherish.
March 13-15 or 20-22: Retreat at the Forest
This intensive weekend will complete the course, and will include time in small group discussion about the material we’ve covered in the previous sessions, some new teaching drawing on a variety of spiritual traditions, and a “next steps” session to help us navigate where we go from here. The weekend will also include meaningful ritual to help set the tone for our time together, meditation practice in the tradition of the Forest of Peace, healthy and delicious meals, and time for contemplation and rest.
Weekly sessions will be on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on Zoom, and technical assistance will be available as needed.
This course is for anyone who is seeking to go deeper into their own spiritual practice, those open to learning from the wisdom of many faith traditions, and those who are looking for renewal in this time of their life. We aim to provide you with practices and friendships that will sustain your journey long after the course ends.
Cost: $700 (includes weekly sessions and retreat)-- Early bird price of $600 if registered by December 31st. We are committed to making this experience accessible–payment plans are available, and those who register and make their first payment by the early bird deadline will pay the early bird price.
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