This day invites you to explore your journey into the second half of life. How has the first half of your life prepared you? What yearnings now call you to leave the familiar and search more deeply into the gifts of the second half of life? Through input, reflections and sharing, we will search together for the journey's meaning and mystery.

Using poetry, ritual and mandalas, our day will include sharing our stories of grace, creativity and time for quiet reflection. In this beautiful autumnal season, pause from the busyness of your life and experience the quiet and peace at Mercy by the Sea.

Join us for a day of mindfulness during which we will practice clarity of mind, focus, and the non-judgmental observation of experience as it unfolds from moment-to-moment. In a safe, relaxed atmosphere, a variety of mindfulness loving kindness and meditation practices will be introduced and guided.

This workshop combines shamanic journeying with painting the inner images, words, emotions and sensory experiences that emerge during the journey. No experience is required.

This workshop combines shamanic journeying with painting the inner images, words, emotions and sensory experiences that emerge during the journey. No experience is required.

Through prayer, story, scripture and poetry, we will reflect on the spiritual invitations of the second half of life. There will be time for sharing in community and for quiet and solitude.

While exploring the myth of Persephone, and diving deep into its rich symbolism and themes, participants will discover through the JourneyCircles™ Process, how an underworld experience can be the catalyst for a heroine's journey. The JourneyCircles™ Process is a highly creative, yet very accessible, mixed media art form that guides you in creating personal symbolic imagery, used for discovering and retelling the stories of your life. Discover the depth and power of creating and claiming a positive living language for your stories.

Take a much-needed break and dedicate time to renew your whole being. This retreat day will focus on balancing your mind, body and spirit through mindful movement, breathing techniques, relaxation exercises, stress management strategies and self-reflection in a beautiful, tranquil setting on Long Island Sound.

Through prayer, story, scripture and poetry, we will reflect on the spiritual invitations of the second half of life. There will be time for sharing in community and for quiet and solitude.

This program is a contemporary adaptation of the classic Ignatian 30-day retreat for those who are not able to take a month away from family, work and other responsibilities. Its central purpose is to grow in spiritual freedom and find intimacy with God in the midst of daily life.

Using story, literature, current research, art, poetry, and scripture, Second Half of Life classes focus on how elders are viewed across time and cultures. Participants then explore the opportunities available at this developmental stage of life. There is an optional social gathering after class from 3:30-4 p.m.

If you are registered for the School but cannot make this or other sessions, please call or email Rosemary Jones at 203.245.0401, ext. 114 or rosemary@mercybythesea.org.

This directed retreats will offer an experience grounded in solitude, silence, prayer and daily meetings with spiritual director, Patty Cook, RSM.

Loss and grief are particularly difficult during the holiday season. Come to the soothing spaces of Mercy by the Sea for comfort and support. This day of reflection will include prayer, ritual, quiet and the support of community — all valuable resources for healing a grieving heart.