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

Do You Have a Question?
Monastic Retreat & Research Seminar
January 3 - 9, 2013

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 research and analyze 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 seminar leader is there to assist with bibliography, methodology, etc..

Once selected, the participant will be put in contact with the seminar 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 a brief essay on his/her topic. If the participant has had a particularly fruitful time, the participant has the option of continuing work with the seminar leader toward the production of 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.

"Do You Have a Question?" has an event page on facebook. Check it out at http://www.facebook.com/events/389480451124781/

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. 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.

Applications are being received and will be reviewed on a rolling submission basis. If by December 7, 2012, there is insufficient registration, the retreat may be cancelled. A waiting list of participants will be maintained.

What Does It Cost?

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

The cost to participate is $150, which covers room and board at the priory. An automatic scholarship of $150 will be awarded to participants in the primary constituency. 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 January?

Another retreat is possible during Holy Week. Since this is a pilot program, we can make no promises about the future. Of course, we would like to see this become a regular and frequent offering. That being said, its future is somewhat dependent upon response now. Nevertheless, St. Augustine's House accepts private retreats, and the Lutheran Campus Ministry offers group retreats from time to time (but there are no scholarships).

What if I Have more Questions?

For more information, contact Chap. Matthew Riegel (http://www.facebook.com/chap.riegel, at ProjectConnect@WV-WMD.org, or at 304-680-5388).