Recalibrating in the Wilderness: A Coracle Backpacking Retreat for Men

Do you ever feel as if you are being swallowed up by polarization, political wrangling, and the many other stresses of life? Maybe it’s time for a reset... and one of the best ways to recalibrate your system is to spend time in the wilderness. Staring at the night sky… listening to the absolute silence of night in the forest… or losing oneself in the gurgling of a creek… All of these things are ways to recalibrate our souls, reset our minds, and gain a fresh perspective on life. As the Psalmist realized: When we consider the heavens and the work of God’s fingers, what are the plans and presence of humanity in comparison? (Psm. 8:3-4, paraphrased).

Consider whether God might be inviting you to step out of the messy stuff of life and recalibrate your system in the wild, awe-inspiring beauty of God’s world through this backpacking retreat in the Dolly Sods Wilderness.

Whether you are an experienced backpacker or have never set foot in the wilderness, you are invited to join this retreat. Basic gear (tents, stoves, water filters…) will be shared. Each person will be expected to provide their own personal gear (pack, boots, sleeping bag, clothing…), but if you do not have the needed items, please don’t let that hinder your participation. Backpacks and sleeping bags can often be purchased second-hand or borrowed from friends. (A detailed packing list will be provided upon registration.)

Kevin Goertzen is serving (together with his wife Denise) as a host at the Corhaven Retreat Center, a ministry of The Coracle, where he gets to spend time working in the woods and offering pastoral care to people who come to Corhaven on retreat. Kevin pastored Mennonite churches in Oklahoma, Kansas, and most recently in Waynesboro, VA. He has always loved camping and spending time in the woods, and has been backpacking since he was a teenager. He was recently certified as an outdoor guide by the University of Wyoming, which included receiving Red Cross wilderness first aid and CPR certifications.

Attendee Cost: $225

REGISTER HERE