Still Place:  An Urban Retreat is hosting Ember Days four times a year on Saturdays from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. 

What is an Ember Day?

An Ember Day is an opportunity for silence, reflection, beauty, and rest.  Ember Days happen at the turning of one season to another, the “hinges” of the year.  

At Still Place each Ember Day centers around a theme suggested by the Earth’s season.  The day begins with a short reflection focusing on some aspect or detail from the natural world.  Guests are then invited to a couple of hours of individual time for quiet, walking, journaling and solitude.  A second short reflection midday ties the morning’s theme more directly to our inner, spiritual life.  Another time of silence follows and the day ends with an opportunity to share out of the silence with the gathered group.

In Christian tradition, the Ember Days have coincided with the church seasons of Advent, Lent, Pentecost and Ordinary Time.  They are rooted in more ancient Jewish agricultural feasts which, in turn, are connected to rhythms in the natural world. We are mindful of all this historical richness when we gather for Ember Days

Guests may bring their own lunch.  Due to Covid, all guests must be fully vaccinated and boosted and masks will be worn indoors.  Still Place also has a screened in porch and a yard with a garden that may be enjoyed throughout the day.

Reservations are required as we can only accommodate seven guests.  A group of three people share leadership for the Ember Days;  Merrill Carrington, Carol Martin and Judy Walsh-Mellett.  

To reserve a place for the Ember Day please contact Judy Walsh-Mellett at: stillplacemd@gmail.com or call 301-927-2015.