WV-WMD Synod :: Project Connect :: "Do You Have a Question?"

Do You Have a Question?
Research Retreat & Seminar

Is there something which puzzles/interests/vexes you?

Do you need some time to research it, think about it, test it?

This retreat may be for you.

The WV-WMD Synod Project Connect Team is offering a week-long retreat in the only Lutheran Benedictine monastery in the USA (St. Augustine's House). Building upon the daily rhythm of Benedictine life, each participant will have the opportunity to read, analyze, and write on a topic of interest to him/her.

What Topics Will Be Explored?

That is up to the participant. Each participant selects his/her own research topic. Topics can include anything in the theological sciences (systematics, historical theology, church history, ethics, biblical studies, liturgics, spirituality, etc.).

What Method Will be Employed?

Selected applicants will be organized into a cohort of 4-5 peers. The cohort is a seminar group which will gather on a regular basis to share progress reports, discuss problems, and share ideas under the leadership of an accompanying mentor. In all likelihood, there will be a diversity of topics represented, providing for a potentially lively interdisciplinary exchange. Most of the participants' time, however, will be spent in private research, analysis, and thought.

The seminar leader is also a mentor to the participants. As mentor, the seminary leader is there to assist with bibliography, methodology, etc..

Once selected, the participant will be put in contact with the seminary leader and the other members of the cohort so that advice can be given on preparatory work (especially regarding what resources might be helpful) and logistics.

Participants are expected to participate in the pattern and disciplines of the priory, attending the prayer offices and masses of the priory (with the exception of vigils), joining in the meals, and observing times of silence. Engaging in work is optional, but most will find a break from study for something manual refreshing.

Following the retreat, the participant will have six months to prepare, minimally, an essay on his/her topic and, if possible, something which can be used to teach others what the participant discovered (e.g., an article, lecture, presentation, etc.). The seminar leader will maintain contact through this time and review the essay and any other product.

Project Connect is an initiative in the Eastern Cluster of ELCA Seminaries to help keep young adults connected with the church. For more information, see http://www.facebook.com/groups/2228857444/ and http://www.ProjectConnect.org/.

St. Augustine's House, a Lutheran Benedictine monastery and retreat house, is located about 20 miles north of Pontiac, MI. Still observing the seven canonical prayer offices, daily mass, and the disciplines of silence, study, and work, it is a unique and little known treasure in American Lutheranism. For more information, visit http://www.staugustineshouse.org/. You can also find them on fb at http://www.facebook.com/pages/St-Augustines-House-Lutheran-Monastery/124803940876095.

Who Can Participate?

Consistent with Project Connect, primary participants must be between the ages of 18 and 30 (inclusive) and a member of an ELCA congregation. In the event that not all slots are filled, applicants outside the primary constituency will be considered.

Those interested must fill out an application (which can be found on-line at https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/CG87QVG). Slots are limited.

What Does It Cost?

*** Pay attention to the scholarship information ***

The cost to participate is $245, which covers room and board at the priory. An automatic scholarship of $170 will be awarded to participants in the primary constituency, bringing the cost to $75. Participants are responsible for their own transportation to and from St. Augustine's House and meals in transit. It may be possible to hitch a ride with another cohort member or with the seminar leader.

What if I Can't Go in March?

Additional retreats are being planned for early to mid-Augsut and for October-November.

What if I Have more Questions?

For more information, contact Chap. Matthew Riegel (http://www.facebook.com/chap.riegel) at ProjectConnect@WV-WMD.org.