At the 2015 Parish Retreat at Camp Mitchell, we explored the theme of "Bodies of Christ".  Ragan Sutterfield, guest retreat leader, taught us how the "Body of Christ" is used in three distinct ways in the New Testament.  First, it is the literal body of Christ - God in the flesh in Jesus, who walked the earth, ate, drank, healed people with his touch, and suffered pain and death.  The Incarnate God reminds us that we are flesh, and that our bodies are good and holy, and can be instruments of love and grace.  Secondly, the "Body of Christ" is referred to as the ekklesia - the "Church".  The Church is literally called out to serve the world as Christ served us.  We are to embody Christ with our own talents and compassion as we work to heal the world.  Finally, we talk about the "Body of Christ" in the sacrament of Holy Communion.  In the mystery of bread and wine, Christ is present with us now.

Our retreat this year was a beautiful expression of our community as "Bodies of Christ" in all of these ways.  We enjoyed one another, we played, ate, prayed, and worshipped together, and we worked to serve some who are in need.  Thanks to the Parish Life Team and to all those who volunteered and helped, we all had a really wonderful retreat. 

The best way to look back and enjoy this experience is to see the pictures.  Click here to see the slideshow.