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08/03/2022 09:07 AMMADISON
Poet, teacher, and storyteller, Mark Nepo, will lead a retreat from Friday, Aug. 26 through Sunday, Aug. 28 at Mercy by the Sea (MBTS), 167 Neck Road, where he will also officially launch his new book, Surviving Storms.
The program will explore how a life of meaning and love unfolds through adversity, how love awakens everything, and how care erases the walls we keep building between us, according to Executive Director Sister Mary McCarthy. The New York Times’ bestselling author of The Book of Awakening has been called “one of the finest spiritual guides of our time,” “a consummate storyteller,” and “an eloquent spiritual teacher.”
Nepo’s books have been translated into more than 20 languages. He has taught for more than 40 years in the fields of poetry and spirituality and is a columnist for Spirituality & Health magazine.
MBTS Director of Programs Karin Nobile, said the event will be a special evening of hope and compassion.
“Mark is a beloved internationally acclaimed poet, teacher, and retreat facilitator. He is one of the finest spiritual guides of our time. He describes himself as a student of all spiritual past. He believes in the universal spirit and we welcome people of all faith traditions here, even of no faith traditions,” said Nobile. “Anyone of any faith tradition who has faced, or is facing, adversity and wants to work through and process that, would be very interested in this program. To have him here on shoreline is a great gift. Anyone interested in poetry and spirituality would really enjoy this evening.”
Nepo was diagnosed with a rare form of lymphoma in 1987. Since then, he says, he has been a student of all paths. According to the author, his work explores the common center and unity of all spiritual traditions, focusing on how we can experience that unity when we embrace the blessing of vulnerability, lean into life and hold nothing back.
Overnight reservations have been filled, but commuter day spots are still available and include meals, presentations, and the book signing. Visit the MBTS website to register or to find our more information.
Mercy by the Sea will be celebrating their 50th anniversary on Sunday, Sept. 25 and several upcoming events will honor this milestone.
McCarthy said the environs of retreat center make for an opportunity to reflect on faith.
“This is really a special place. Where people can come renewed and refreshed,” said McCarthy. “These beautiful grounds, and with Long Island Sound right there…it truly makes this a place of refuge. For me it always has been a special place…you feel the sense of peace when you drive into the property. We also want to thank all those who have supported us over the years. We are grateful we have been able to continue with our mission for so long. And it is truly an honor to have Mark here, and it’s wonderful opportunity for those who can attend our sessions.”
Mercy by the Sea is a retreat and conference center located on the shores of Long Island Sound in Madison, CT. For more information, visit mercybythesea.org or call 203-245-0401.