Our Marriage annual renewal ceremony

“Wear jeans and a baseball cap, and grab a swimsuit; I’m kidnapping you for the weekend!” announced Bunny to her husband, as they looked forward to celebrating their wedding anniversary.

Sam sent a quick note to his contacts saying that he would be out of the office for a few days, and if they received a ransom note to NOT pay it! J Evidently he was cherishing the thought of being AWOL from their typical, satisfying but amazingly-hectic, daily routine.

Once we passed the Mother of God House of Prayer sign on a country road near Alva, Sam was greatly relieved that the secret destination Bunny had arranged was not one of her usual action-packed venues. We dropped our cooler and back packs in our room in the deserted retreat center and headed out to explore the grounds. It only took a coupla minutes in the “porch swing” out under a huge live oak for us to feel the tension draining from our bodies. The welcome silence, interrupted only by the sounds of birds, crickets, frogs and other little woods critters, set the tone for a most relaxing weekend. The verdant beauty of the well tended grounds naturally set a pace about 1/3 of the speed at which we usually move. With no phones or computers calling, we were able to spend long periods in meditation, interspersed by spontaneous walks in the woods, a canoe trip down the little creek, sleeping in, hours spent poolside reminiscing about our history, and sharing our dreams for the future. We carved out a space for our annual vow renewal ceremony and asked ourselves why we don’t “escape” more often!

MOGHOP offers a marvelous venue for solace and renewal! There are programs available from time to time, as well as the opportunity to schedule spiritual direction sessions; private silent sabbaticals, or just time to BE with your thoughts for your own personal reflection and growth. The center is replete with a well stocked kitchen, several relaxation areas, all of the personal amenities that one might desire, and especially with symbology and reminders everywhere one looks leading the mind to ponder and expand. We returned relaxed and rested in body, and renewed in spirit, with a fresh anticipation and eagerness for what lies ahead. We could not have asked for a more gratifying time apart.

For more information, visit www.moghop.com  You may want to consider a private escape, or “kidnap” someone you love for a getaway that will be a blessing to you both!  

For a pictorial tour of the facility and grounds, go to:  http://www.moghop.com/gallery.html