In 2022 John Philip Newell began a second series of annual retreats (called The Great Search) to address the deep spiritual yearnings of humanity at this moment in time amidst immense transitions in the world and religious exile for many. What are the new beginnings that are waiting to be born within us and among us today?
The Great Search 1 is the first of a three-part series of annual retreats led by the Celtic teacher John Philip Newell and his colleague Cami Twilling in which we explore the search for expanded vision, the search for intimacy with Earth, and the search for spiritual presence.
The teachings of this retreat are based on John Philip Newell’s new book The Great Search: Turning to Earth & Soul in the Quest for Healing & Home (especially Chapters 1, 2, and 3, drawing on the wisdom of Thomas Berry, Nan Shepherd, and Martin Buber).
The text for this three-year program is John Philip Newell’s book The Great Search. The shared prayer book for this program isPraying with the Earth.
The Great Search 1 can be taken as a stand-alone retreat or in conjunction with The Great Search 2 and The Great Search 3 which can be attended in any order and at any of our retreat centers across the country or online.
Check-in: February 5, 2027 at 3:00pm
Checkout: February 7, 2027 at 11:00am
Resident Cost: $585, includes program, meals, and lodging
Commuter Cost: $525, includes program and meals
A $100 non-refundable & non-transferrable deposit is required to reserve your space.
Scholarship funding is available. Apply here.
About the Facilitators
John Philip Newell is a Celtic teacher and author, calling the world to reawaken to the sacredness of Earth and every human being. His poetic and intellectual teachings focuses on spiritual awareness, political and ecological concern.
Cami Twilling is the Director of Earth & Soul. Passionate about the relationship between spirituality and action, she believes that spiritual vision and practice play a vital role in healing and transforming our lives.
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?