What do we offer?

 A retreat is a response to God's invitation to come aside and rest with Him. God is the host, planning what will happen. Expect the unexpected on a retreat, but always in the context of encountering a loving and gracious God.

It is not:

• A time of in-depth Bible study.
• A time of extended intercessory prayer.
• An endurance test – you can opt out at any time (but talk it over first).
• A time of deep introspection.

A retreat may include elements of all these, but it's your retreat, with your concerns. The best approach is to come with a willingness to be totally open and honest before God.

Don't expect too much of yourself:

• Start with an easy timetable initially.
• Include a couple of (shortish) prayer periods, if you like.
• Schedule times of rest – early nights and siestas. Feeling sleepy is normal!
• Engage in gentle exercise – iDwala offers wonderful walks suitable for all fitness levels.
• Deliberately slow down, spend more time on everything you do. Consciously relax, breathe more deeply, and walk more slowly.
• Take time to observe the birds, insects, and other forms of wildlife. Listen to the sounds of nature – from melodious birdsongs to water running over rocks, to the wind rustling through trees and grass. Savour the fragrance of flowers and the fresh mountain air. Feel the textures of rocks and plants. In all of this, experience the presence of God.

Entering into a retreat, whether for one day, a weekend, or longer, takes time. Life is often busy and stressful, making you feel like God is distant and your prayer life is routine or hard work. Allow time to feel at home in new surroundings, to adjust to a change of pace, and to let your deeper hopes and desires surface. Meet God in this place.

The good news is that there is all the time in the world available. Even on the shortest of retreats, there is enough time to relax and let God do everything He wants to do.

Highly recommended during your retreat:

• Rest from all electronic media – mobile phones, computers, and other electronic equipment. iDwala has patchy phone reception and internet access.
• Take a break from catching up with your reading material – work-related or otherwise.

iDwala Retreat Centre offers you a space to answer God's invitation for rest and reflection, guided by our experienced team of Heidi and Hermann. Embrace the opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and encounter God's love and grace. Take this time to rejuvenate your spirit and deepen your relationship with Him. We look forward to welcoming you to iDwala, where your unique retreat experience awaits!