“Be Still and Know”: A Weekend of Rest, Reflection, and Renewal

From May 2–4, 29 women gathered at the peaceful Kenbrook Bible Camp for a retreat centered around the theme “Be Still and Know.” What unfolded over those 48 hours was more than just a getaway—it was a sacred pause, a time to reconnect with God, with one another, and with themselves.

A Spirit-Led Gathering

The retreat was carefully planned by a team of eight residents and team members, led by Jeannine Perry, who also served as the weekend’s emcee. The planning team—Barb Carter, Anne Treadwell, Dixie Adams, Laura Good, Becca Sauder, Barb Masho, Karyn Nancarvis, and Suzanne Butler—brought their unique gifts to the table, from music and art to administration and hospitality.

The women welcomed Dawn Groff, the care pastor from Cross Roads Brethren in Christ in Mount Joy. Dawn led five powerful workshops—one on Friday, three on Saturday, and one on Sunday—each rooted in scripture and reinforced with thoughtful activities and table discussions. Her clarity, structure, and spiritual insight were deeply appreciated. After the Sunday session, Dawn led the group in communion—a beautiful culmination of our time together.

Moments of Stillness and Joy

The retreat offered a rich blend of activities designed to nourish the soul:

• Creative expression through art projects and crafts, including a diamond art session led by Resident Suzanne Butler and a special dulcimer workshop where everyone learned to play.
• Time in nature, with hikes, walks in the woods, and quiet moments to reflect in God’s creation.
• Evening fun, with games, laughter, and plenty of snacks.
• Intentional stillness, where we practiced what it means to “be still and know” in different seasons of life. A special part of this session was a sound meditation led by Music Therapist Becca Sauder.
• Welcoming new life, when Laura Good’s mother exclaimed, “Joanna Joy arrived!” Laura left the retreat early and welcomed her first child, a healthy baby girl.

Intergenerational Connections and Shared Stories

This retreat was a beautiful tapestry of generations—residents, staff, daughters, and friends. Resident Paula Schmauk was joined by her two daughters, who surprised her with the retreat as a gift during a season of transition. Others came carrying burdens—downsizing, caregiving, legal responsibilities—and found solace in shared stories and sacred space.

Suzanne says, “I enjoyed Dawn’s workshops as well as the overall spirit of the women who participated. Everyone was really willing to share and get to know each other. I met women from Garden Spot Village—who were residents and employees—that I had never met before. It was just a wonderful weekend.”

Hospitality and Grace

Kenbrook’s hospitality was exceptional. The group stayed in hotel-style accommodations, all in one hallway, which fostered a sense of closeness. The food was delicious and thoughtfully prepared to meet everyone’s dietary needs. Drinks were always nearby, and our hosts covered us in prayer and kindness.

Looking Up

Throughout the weekend, we were reminded to “look up”—to shift our gaze from our circumstances to the One who holds us. As Dawn shared, branches that bear fruit must be pruned to grow stronger. In our stillness, we found strength, clarity, and renewed trust in God.

Gratitude and Growth

This retreat was more than an event—it was a sacred space where friendships deepened, faith was rekindled, and hearts were refreshed. Chaplain Karyn Nancarvis says, “We left Kenbrook not just rested, but transformed.”