This multimodal expressive arts retreat is an invitation to come apart for a while in solitude and in community, to slow down, reflect, and be refreshed as we explore God’s gift of Hope.
We will begin our time together by grounding ourselves in God’s greatness and love through a guided Scripture-based imaginative prayer experience. We will then use several creative modalities to further internalize what arose during prayer. From that place of groundedness, we will spend time in solitude with the Lord reflecting on and exploring with Him an area in our life where Hope is longed for or needs rekindling using an art medium of one’s choice.
For the final portion of the retreat, we will create a communal mural of Hope that we will use for our closing prayer meditation. There will be moments during our time together to offer one another the gift of listening.
You are encouraged to bring a journal and writing instrument. Art materials provided. No previous art experience needed. For any questions, reach out to Facilitator Sheri Abel at 630-234-3938.
The Gift of Hope: Personal and Communal
Date and Time: Sat., October 4, 2025, 8:30 am -12:30 pm
Location: Pleasant Hill Community Church, 26W401 Geneva Rd, Wheaton, IL 60187
Deadline to register: End of day September 30, 2025
Cost:
Pay What It Costs - $45 - Ensures that the costs of hosting this event are fully met and lets us wisely prepare budgets for future workshops.
Pay It Forward - $65 - Empowers us to expand accessibility options to those experiencing limited financial circumstances.
Pay As You Can - $20 - Your payment of this amount allows Christos to honor your desire to deepen your connection with God within your current circumstances. If those circumstances prohibit this amount, please email traci@christoscenter.org
"May God,
the Inspiration and Fountain of Hope,
fill you to overflowing
with uncontainable Joy and perfect Peace
as you trust in Him,
and that by the power of the Holy Spirit
you will abound in Hope
and overflow with confidence in His promises."
Romans 15:13
Retreat Guide: Sheri Abel
Sheri Abel is a spiritual director, expressive arts facilitator and consultant, and French professor at Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois. She is a certified Open Studio Project facilitator (Evanston, IL), and received a Level 2 certificate in the Expressive Arts from Prairie Institute of Expressive Arts Therapy (Calgary, Alberta). She received her certificate in spiritual direction from Christos Center for Spiritual Formation. Sheri also helps coordinate Christos-Chicago events.
