Weekly News | 10.2.26
Parish Retreat, how do I love thee? Let me count the ways. Or rather, let’s hear from someone else for a change!
Below are reflections from a few people in our community who have attended the last three years in a row (some of them more!) about why you might consider joining us on October 16th & 17th. Registration closes on 10/5!
When attending Parish Retreat, people often think about knowing or deepening their life in the community. In your experience, what about Parish Retreat accurately reflects who you know COTC to be?
“The flow and teaching at Parish Retreat has a very uniquely COTC vibe. There are so many gifted and intelligent people who are a part of our community and this is expressed wonderfully in the content and care that is provided throughout the retreat.” - Danny McReynolds
“For me, Parish Retreat has been both an experience and a reminder of the joy that comes from following Jesus together and sharing life with a community that genuinely loves being together. This sense of community has always felt central to COTC’s mission as a church, and I see that expressed so clearly at Parish Retreat.” - Jay Schmidt
Coming once makes sense - gotta get the lay of the land. But you’ve been here for a bit, have friends, and so on. Why did you come again? (And again?)
“Coming to Parish Retreat helps me to see and appreciate the church body (specifically at COTC) as a whole. Sunday mornings, I often mostly see and speak with the folks who are near me at the 11am service, on the right side of the sanctuary. There are a bunch of other folks who attend the 9am service and even sit on the other side of the sanctuary from me that I just don’t see very often! It is nice to get reacquainted with “old” friends and meet new ones.” - Danny McReynolds
“Every Parish Retreat I’ve attended has given me the chance to meet new people and connect more deeply with folks I see on Sundays but haven’t had much opportunity to spend time with. More than that, these connections often extend beyond the retreat into more meaningful interactions on Sundays, a coffee or lunch, a carpool buddy to men’s retreat, or an invitation to meet other people they know in the church. In short, I come again (and again) because there are such amazing people at COTC, and I want to know them in a more meaningful way!” - Jay Schmidt
In readying Parish Retreat, we do so with an eye toward growing together through learning experiences and connecting with one another. What memories of either of those come to mind for you?
“Although the study is superb and there is so much rich learning that happens, my most distinct memory of Parish Retreat has to be the infamous Slurpee Crawl with the youth. The trek is filled with a haul of gas station Slurpees and candy, and lots of laughter. How could you not feel connected after a bunch of teenagers hike (safely) down the access road of 290. I love how the retreat incorporates the entire congregation and makes it feel like there is a place for everyone who comes.” - Ali Schmidt
“During retreat ‘24, we did an in-depth manuscript bible study; I loved the communal nature of the study and the great discussions that spun out of a close look at the text. But most importantly, I got to meet and befriend the bible study leader, Lindsay! She continues to be a blessing in my life. Oh, and retreat introduced me to the FoodHeads’ squash sandwich-I’d come just for that probably.” - Abby McReynolds
Every year is different, and holds unique opportunities for growth and delight. We hope to see you there! If cost is the only thing holding you back, please reach out to Mtr. Kimberly as we’d love to help keep that from being a barrier.