Join us for a morning to play, create, and delight in the Word.
This Mother's Day, we invite you to step away from the usual routine to tap into your creativity, connect with loved ones, and reflect on our shared identity as cherished daughters of the Creator.
Karen Campbell joins us for her third Creative Journaling Retreat at The Mercy Center—a welcoming space where women of all experience levels can explore a meaningful and beautiful way to engage with God’s Word. Whether you’ve never picked up a paintbrush or you’ve been journaling for years, this retreat is designed to inspire, equip, and encourage you.
Share this half-day retreat with anyone in your life with whom you have a special bond—daughter, mother, in-law, or dear friend. Or attend on your own and reflect on how these relationships have shaped your life.
What to Expect
This is a space to play, experiment, and grow—without pressure or perfection.
Karen will guide you step-by-step, teaching you:
the “rules” of lettering and how to bend them in creative, freeing ways
playful exercises that build confidence and creativity
simple embellishments to enhance your journal pages
helpful techniques for transferring images and expanding your artistic expression
Beyond the techniques, this retreat offers something deeper. Studies show that journaling and creative expression can shift your body from stress to rest—lowering heart rate and blood pressure. Together, we’ll embrace that rest while delighting in God’s Word and creating something meaningful.
What to bring
Something to journal in (a sketch pad, blank book, or journal)
Something to journal with (pen, pencil, eraser)
Your favorite color medium (markers, colored pencils, watercolors, etc.).
Karen will share some creative supplies and offer optional starter journaling kits to purchase for $20.
What past participants are saying
“I was gifted a blank journal years ago, but the expectation was so high that I never created in it. Today I started.”
“I can’t wait to share this practice with my church.”
“You have no idea what this has unleashed in me!”
About the Facilitator
Karen brings a unique blend of experience and authenticity to her work at Mercy Center Auburn. From leading Creative Journaling workshops at Thrive Women’s Conferences and Bayside Church—where she coordinates a women’s Bible study program—to hosting intimate creative gatherings in her home, her passion is helping women discover the joy of connecting with Scripture through art.
What began as simple doodles has blossomed into a love for watercolor and a growing body of work, now featured at the For the Love of Art Gallery in Auburn, CA. She is also the author of Delight in the Word: Abide in God’s Word Through Creative Journaling.
If your financial situation prevents you from attending one of our retreats, we encourage you to apply for financial assistance. Learn more.
Traveling to Mercy Center Auburn
We are nestled in the Sierra foothills of Northern California, just minutes from historic downtown Auburn and easily accessible from Sacramento, the Bay Area, and the surrounding region.
By plane: Mercy Center Auburn is a 40-minute drive from Sacramento International Airport.
By train: Auburn Amtrak Station is the closest passenger rail station (about a 10 minute drive).
By car: Click here for driving directions.
Interested in learning about future retreats and events at Mercy Center Auburn? Click here to join our mailing list