Becoming Aware and Releasing Obstacles to Grace Through Centering Prayer
CCE Contemplative Enrichment Day
Saturday, November 21, 2026
8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (ET)
Colleen Thomas
Mythic membership consciousness invites us to examine not only the groups and institutions we over‑identify with to belong, but also the beliefs, values, family norms, and cultural patterns that shape us. Through Centering Prayer, we become aware of the emotional programs through which we seek happiness and belonging. While belonging is central to spiritual life, this workshop invites us—through silence, reflection, and contemplative journaling—to gently release attachments that inhibit grace and open us to God, freedom, and deeper relationship with all creation.
This program will be offered both in-person and online via Zoom. Information on how to access the program on Zoom will be sent to participants in advance.
This program will include morning and afternoon sessions of Centering Prayer.
Offering: $75, includes lunch
Scholarships are available, please contact Mike Smoolca at cce@holyfamilyretreat.org for more information.
Presenter Profile
Colleen Thomas
Colleen Thomas is a Spiritual Director and long-time practitioner of Centering Prayer. She is the currently Diversity Outreach Coordinator at Contemplative Outreach, LTD. Colleen delights in companioning others on their spiritual journey leading contemplative prayer groups, and spiritual formation workshops and retreats. You can discover more about her work at https://soulcarela.com/ and hear her in conversation about Centering Prayer and the contemplative life on the Contemplative Outreach podcast Opening Minds, Opening Hearts.
Dietary restrictions? Holy Family is committed to making your stay as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, and to that end, we can accommodate most dietary needs. Please email Marianne, our Dining Room Manager, at mbrady@holyfamilyretreat.org, if you have any dietary restrictions or food allergies, so that we may make preparations in advance of your retreat.
Online registration will be available soon. Please check back for updates.