Every September, the three Texas synods share a retreat for first call rostered leaders. While the ELCA calls this First Call Theological Education, we call it Accompaniment. For this retreat, our focus was on spiritual care and mindfulness.

Andrea and Barbara, our reps from Portico, led the Monday sessions and Bible Study. Throughout the retreat, our attendees also shared some spiritual practices in worship and free time too. Monday evening we got to learn about Godly Play.

Tuesday was a mixed bag. Pr. Linda Anderson-Little taught us about Spiritual Direction in the morning. The afternoon was less structured with free time, workshops, and text study groups. Even Bishop Gronberg stopped by to share in the discussion on the role of Deacons in the ELCA.

Our NT-NL pastors led the Wednesday morning closing worship, with every one of them participating in some of the leadership. This retreat is always a gift to me as well, as relationships deepen and strengthen.