Christianity and Creativity

Christianity & Creativity
April 17-19, 2026
with Dr. Jennifer Overkamp
A working retreat for Artists, Writers, and Crafters
The retreat will begin on Friday with an 8pm Rosary and Mass. The retreat will conclude Sunday with Mass and noon lunch.

God is the first Creator, the divine Artist who spoke beauty into existence and fashioned humanity in His own image—making each of us participants in the ongoing work of creation. This unique working creative retreat invites authors and artists, scrapbookers and crafters, sewers and all creative souls to explore the profound connection between faith and artistic expression.

Dr. Jennifer Overkamp will explore creativity not as a luxury or extra talent, but as a divine birthright—part of what it means to be a beloved child of God. Through engaging talks and dedicated creative work time, discover how God invites us to share in making the world more beautiful, more virtuous, and more filled with truth.

This retreat balances contemplation with action, providing structured creative work sessions alongside periods of prayer, Mass, and reflection. We'll explore how your unique perspective and creative voice is a gift meant to be shared—both in this life and in eternity. Just as Heaven would be incomplete without your unique story of God's mercies, so this world is diminished without your creativity.

Participants can discover unexpected parallels between creative practice and spiritual growth. How does learning patience at the easel teach us patience in prayer? Can the humility required to accept constructive criticism on our work help us grow in virtue? Are we as patient with ourselves in developing holiness as we are when learning a new craft or technique?

The retreat will include prompts and exercises to spark creativity, practical strategies for overcoming creative blocks, and a supportive community where you can share and receive encouragement. Dr. Overkamp says: "I will be available to listen, to rejoice with you when things are going well. I can help you think through options, and you can bounce ideas off of me."

All skill levels and creative disciplines are welcome. Whether you paint or write poetry, quilt or compose music, design or dance, this retreat affirms that your creativity is a participation in the divine work of bringing beauty, goodness, and truth into the world.  Artists, scrapbookers and crafters have to bring their own supplies, only indoor and outdoor space, tables and drop clothes are provided (sorry, there is not indoor space for quilt frames.)

Come create alongside fellow artists of faith and rediscover your divine birthright as a maker fashioned in the image of the ultimate Maker.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Retreat House offers a sanctuary of prayer and recollection on a spacious acreage near Waverly. There are 50 single rooms, each with a private bath.

We want our retreats to be accessible to everyone, please consider an additional donation, or contact the Retreat House to inquire about financial assistance or if your parish pays part of the cost. If the retreat you’re interested in is full, contact us to be put on a waiting list. A few double rooms are available upon request. Airport transportation to/from LNK or OMA is also available upon request.

(Due to the in-person nature of being a working artistic retreat, there is no online option.)