The Jonah Silent Retreat
With Rev. Sharon Seyfarth Garner
September 17 - 20, 2026
Immerse yourself in the ancient practice of sacred silence with a creative, new twist. Inspired by the story of Jonah, we will explore creative, prayerful and playful ways to nurture a life of faith that is both deeply contemplative and socially active.
Every morning, we will gather in community for brief reflections on the story of Jonah and to engage in spiritual practices inspired by his story. These sessions will be based on Sharon’s soon-to-be-released book, Praying with Jonah: Practices for Imperfect Pilgrims.
Every evening, we will share in simple worship together. During the rest of your retreat time, you are free to immerse yourself in the gift of spacious silence so as to connect more deeply with your sacred center and listen for where the Spirit may be calling.
Abundant creative prayer practices will be available throughout the retreat – including coloring mandalas, painting, collaging, origami, children’s picture books, finger labyrinths, pray-dough and many other playful prayer options. You may also choose to saunter through the serene grounds of Genesis.
If you are new to silent retreats, this is a great way to ease into the practice as part of a supportive community. If you already have experienced the blessing of silent retreats, this gathering offers space to deepen your practice guided by the reluctant yet relatable prophet, Jonah.
Join us for 3 days and 3 nights of spacious, sacred silence as we explore what it means to be still enough to know and bold enough to go wherever God is calling.
About the Leader
Rev. Sharon Seyfarth Garner
Rev. Sharon Seyfarth Garner is a spiritual director, retreat leader, author and United Methodist pastor. She founded Belly of the Whale Spiritual Direction & Retreat Ministries in 2014 and finds great joy in helping fellow seekers nurture spiritual vitality in daily living. Sharon is an award-winning author of two books on contemplative coloring (Praying with Mandalas: A Colorful, Contemplative […]
Learn more about Rev. Sharon Seyfarth GarnerCategories : 02 Contemplative Living, 04 Christian Living, Genesis Weekend Program 4025