2024 Clergy Gathering

At our Gathering this year, we will explore the transformative power of creativity, and be invited to harness our imaginations as a beacon of hope and wisdom amidst the chaos of modern life. Cultivating Holy Imagination in a Chaotic World is a reflective journey, offering solace and inspiration for navigating unfamiliar terrain with faith and resilience. After experiencing trauma, how do we see our way forward? What language do we have to express and acknowledge the current reality and speak hope into people’s lives, the community, and the world?

We are excited to welcome back the Rev. Dr. Kimberly Wagner, Assistant Professor of Preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary, as our guest speaker for the 2024 Clergy Gathering to lead us in our time together.

The Rev. Canon Greg Foraker, Canon for Formation and Pastoral Care is available to speak more about this gathering for anyone who has questions. Anyone needing financial assistance to participate in this year’s gathering should contact Greg at 720.677.9010 or by email at Greg@EpiscopalColorado.org. We want everyone to feel welcome and able to attend. Our staff is working to create opportunities for you to connect in meaningful ways through these days together.

Reminder: For our common life, it is the expectation that all active priests in the diocese will be present. If you need to be excused from participating, please contact Bishop Kym directly.  For active deacons, because of your commitment to the annual diaconal retreat, your participation is optional. Retired clergy are welcome to attend and participate as fully as they would like.

Our Speaker: The Rev. Dr. Kimberly Wagner

The Rev. Dr. Kimberly Wagner serves as the Assistant Professor of Preaching at Princeton Theological Seminary. She received a B.S. in Secondary Life Science Education from Miami University (OH), a M.Div. from the Candler School of Theology at Emory University, and her Ph.D. from the Graduate Division of Religion at Emory University. Though she has served among the Lutherans and was educated among United Methodists, Dr. Wagner is ordained as a Minister of Word and Sacrament in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Previous experience on the pastoral staff of a PCUSA congregation in Virginia helps fuel and inform her present scholarship and teaching. She is passionate about supporting students’ formation and helping clergy and communities navigate the realities of an ever-changing world and church. Her current writing and work focus on preaching and ministry in the midst and wake of trauma, particularly thinking about collective trauma, the role of the preacher, and the resources of our Scriptures and faith to respond to these moments. Dr. Wagner’s book, Fractured Ground: Preaching in the Wake of Mass Trauma (Westminster John Knox Press, 2023), offers guidance for preaching in the aftermath of communal trauma, including mass violence, natural disasters, and public health crises.

Spiritual Direction

Spiritual Direction offers a graced opportunity to reflect on your life, your ministry, and your vocation in the presence of a compassionate companion. The Rev. Michelle Danson, The Rev. Christy Shain Hendricks, Kaudie McLean, and The Rev. Bonnie Spencer will offer individual, confidential half-hour spiritual direction sessions by appointment at no cost on Tuesday, April 30. To learn more about the spiritual directors and to see their availability and how to schedule your session, click the link below. For other questions about connecting with our spiritual directors, contact Tracy Methe, Missioner for Baptismal Living during the course of our gathering by email at tracy@episcopalcolorado.org.

Click the link: https://episcopalcolorado.org/clergy-gathering/spiritual-direction-2024/

Experiences 

heated saltwater pool

Discover your best self within the expansive 27,000-square-foot Athletic Club and Spa Anjali. Stay in peak form or learn new techniques in our state-of-the-art fitness club. The Athletic Club is located on the lower level, overlooking the 25-yard outdoor saltwater lap pool, three infinity hot tubs and the Eagle River. With a top-notch staff of talented certified personal trainers and nutritionists ready to challenge even the most seasoned athlete, discover new ways to find inspiration and be your best. https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/whrbw-the-westin-riverfront-resort-and-spa-avon-vail-valley/experiences/

On-Site Outlet

Inspired by the healing powers of Mother Nature, Spa Anjali has been recognized as one of the “Top 25 Spas in the World” by Conde Nast Traveler. Offering massage, facials, body treatments & our unique Chakra Blessings, along with full-service salon.  Call +1 970-790-3020

 

Group Wellness and Free Time Activities

We are so glad to schedule wellness experiences and outdoor organized activities for you to enjoy during the time of Clergy Gathering at the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa.  Experience the Athletic Club, a state-of-the-art fitness center where instructors offer unique classes that will leave you feeling energized and renewed. Private classes just for our group have been arranged at the times listed below.  Other activities are being led by clergy colleagues with experience and passion for hiking, fishing and walking.

Below are the scheduled dates, times, and locations of the activities:

Tuesday April 30th 

8:30AM – Sound Bowl Meditation (45 min)

Quartz crystal sound bowls create a powerful and unique group meditation experience.

Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing for the sessions. You are welcome to bring your own yoga mat. Mats are available at the yoga studio for your use.

  • Instructor: Kayla Weber
  • Westin Athletic Club’s Yoga Studio
  • limited to 20 participants

8:45AM – Reflective Walk  

Meet in hotel lobby

Wear comfortable clothing, walking shoes, bring a water bottle, and sunscreen.

  • led by Greg Foraker

1:30 – 4:45pm PM – Board Games 

Jenga, Connect 4, Scrabble, and other options

  • on your own – no instructor needed
  • Riverside Ballroom Salon 1

2 PM – Xtreme Hip Hop Dance (60 mins)

Xtreme Hip Hop dance is a traditional step aerobics class with new school moves and music.  All fitness levels are welcome and step boards will be available for participants.  However, the board is not required for participation. Wear comfortable clothing and athletic shoes.

  • Instructor: Leah Nicole
  • Athletic Club’s Yoga Studio or Riverside Terrace Lawn (weather permitting)

About Leah Nicole

Leah Nicole, owner of Rhythm N Sweat Dance & Fitness is a certified instructor in Zumba, STRONG Nation, MixxedFIT, Xtreme Burn and Xtreme Hip Hop.  Offering weekly scheduled classes, personal training, and fitness events across 5 different states, Leah has become an advocate of emotional health and healing. Following the sudden death of her daughter and the death of her grandmother in an eleven-month period, Leah has learned to navigate her way through pain and loss and move towards healing and hope.  Leah now strives to motivate and inspire her clients to seek healing from their own personal grief.  She believes everyone should not only look good from the inside-out, but they should also feel good within their spirit.

2:30PM – Fly Fishing (The Spirituality of Fly Fishing)  

Meet on the walking path near Gore Creek (take outside back stairs down to creek near walking path).  Wear comfortable clothing, waterproof footwear, bring your fishing gear, a water bottle, and sunscreen.   An extra rod will be available if you don’t have your own.

  • led by Brian Winter

All activities and experiences are offered at no additional cost to attendees.  Please register/indicate your interest in participating in as many offerings as you like. This will help us know how many to expect and prepare for.  If you have questions or need additional information, contact Janet Choyce, Event Coordinator at janet@episcopalcolorado.org.

Clergy Transitions