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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251120
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251124
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251020T210614Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T210614Z
UID:10000115-1763596800-1763942399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Divine Embodiment
DESCRIPTION:Divine Embodiment: Men Exploring the Connection between God and Eros\nWe come together not to define Divinity\, but to embody it. Come as you are. Leave more fully who you are. \nClick Here for More Information and Registration
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/divine-embodiment/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251126
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251201
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240521T143430Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251121T215809Z
UID:10000030-1764115200-1764547199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:The Mountain's Grateful Gathering
DESCRIPTION:Grateful Gathering 2025 Schedule\nJoin us for a long weekend of acknowledging and celebrating the gratitude in our lives.  Even through challenging times\, there is much to be grateful for\, be it friendships\, family\, community\, opportunities for learning\, The Mountain\, and many other things in our lives. \nThe program includes workshops\, entertainment\, hiking\, building connections with old and new friends\, worship service\, and outdoor adventures. \nThis is a great opportunity to invite family and friends to share time together\, and no one has to cook or clean up after the holiday feast. \nAbout The Grateful Gathering at The Mountain: An Intergenerational Program Thanksgiving Week \nWe are looking forward to gathering with people familiar with The Mountain\, as well as welcoming new people to this special place. \nIn a spirit of gratitude\, as we are immersed in our extraordinary natural environment\, we will learn\, discuss\, and share ideas and life stories about our individual and group relationships with the Earth and one another. \nThe Mountain Retreat & Learning Center is an ecologically-conscious retreat and learning center located on 4\,200 foot high granite cliffs on the Eastern Continental Divide in the Blue Ridge Mountains\, surrounded by the Nantahala Forest.  We offer a unique opportunity to learn about and enjoy the ecology and geology of the area.  Perched on the Eastern edge of the Highlands Plateau\, this temperate rainforest includes an Old Growth Oak Forest\, one of the oldest in the U.S.  Our four ecosystems\, with the highest flora and fauna diversity (over 10\,000 species) in North America\, have nurtured multiple cultures including the Cherokee Nation. \nWe look forward to you joining us for this Grateful Gathering adventure. \nTopics to consider in this gathering are personal and organizational values\, gratitude felt and expressed\, and learning more about our own and other cultures in relation to living our values. \nProgram for Children and Youth \nAll meals will be with families.  Activities between meals will focus on environmental exploration\, creative opportunities\, and discussions about our world\, the people\, plants\, and animals. \nWhen\nWednesday\, November 26 – 30\, 2025\nRegistration: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: November 25\, 2025 at 5pm \nReservations\nReservation Fee includes: Lodging\, meals\, use of assigned facilities\nMake sure to reserve your spot early; participation is limited \n4 night event (Wed-Sat nights) \nAdult Double Occupancy: $480/person \nAdult Single Occupancy: $740/person \nYouth 12-17: $260/person \nChild 4-11: $200/person \n3 night event (Wed- Fri nights) \nAdults Double Occupancy: 3-nights: $345 per person \nSingle Occupancy (Limited Availability): $555.00 /person \nYouth 12-17: $195.00/person \nChildren 4-11: $150/person \nToddler 0-3: Free \n2 night event (Wed-Thu nights) \nAdult Double Occupancy: $230/person \nAdult Single Occupancy: $370/person \nYouth 12-17: $130/person \nChildren 4-11: $100/person \nToddler 0-3: Free \nThursday Commuter Rate  \nIncludes Programming and Dinner \n$50/person (Purchase a ticket by scrolling down this page!) \nClick Here to Register for Overnights \nThursday Commuters ONLY: Purchase a ticket below!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/grateful-gathering/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251205
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251208
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240521T143616Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20250908T175030Z
UID:10000031-1764892800-1765151999@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:The Calm Within: A Clarity of Mind Mahamudra Meditation Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The Calm Within: A Clarity of Mind Mahamudra Meditation Retreat at The Mountain Retreat Center in Highlands\, NC \nFriday\, December 5 – Sunday\, December 7\, 2025 \nTake a break from the busyness and excessive productivity of everyday life\, and retreat into the clarity and calm deep within our own mind. \nDuring this special weekend mountain retreat\, attendees will be guided in meditations on the nature and clarity of our own mind. These sublime meditations are effective methods for improving concentration and counteracting negative mental habits that result in stress\, anxiety and fear. \nBy training in these meditations\, our mind becomes progressively more subtle and peaceful\, causing us to experience a profound inner stillness and tranquility. Eventually\, we will discover our own inner potential for lasting peace\, happiness and true freedom. \nThese meditations are part of the Mahamudra tradition\, the very essence of Buddha’s teachings. Gaining the slightest experience of these blessed instructions will revolutionize our life\, transforming the ordinary into the extraordinary. \nSessions will be skillfully guided by the Resident Teachers of Southern Kadampa Centers. Sessions include a brief teaching\, silent time for meditation and time for question and answer. All sessions are suitable for beginners and those with some experience of Kadampa Buddhism. \nEveryone is welcome! \nThis regional retreat is organized by Kadampa meditation centers and branches in Georgia\, North Carolina\, South Carolina\, Alabama\, Tennessee\, Mississippi and the Florida Panhandle. \nWEEKEND SCHEDULE\nFriday\n3:00-7:30p.m.  |  Check-in at The Mountain’s main office\n6:00-7:15p.m. | Dinner\n7:30-9:00p.m.  |  Introduction and Session 1 \nSaturday\n8:00-8:45a.m.  |  Breakfast\n9:00-10:15a.m.  |  Session 2\n11:00a.m.-12:15p.m. | Session 3\n12:30-1:45p.m. | Lunch\n4:00-5:30p.m. | Session 4 and Q&A\n6:00-7:00p.m. | Dinner\n7:15-8:30p.m. | Session 5 \nSunday\n8:00-8:45a.m.  |  Breakfast\n9:00-10:00a.m.  |  Session 6\n11:00a.m.-12:30p.m.  |  Session 7 and Conclusion \nRETREAT TEACHERS\nGen Kelsang Norbu was ordained in 2006 by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche\, and was requested by him to be the Resident Teacher of KMC North Carolina. He earned the title ‘Gen’ in 2012\, indicating that he is a senior ordained teacher in the New Kadampa Tradition of modern Buddhism. He is known for his loving and gentle nature and holds a very clear and sharp understanding of Buddha’s teachings. \nKelsang Dechok is a senior ordained teacher of Modern Buddhism. She has studied and taught in both the US and the UK for many years. She was ordained in 2006 by Geshe Kelsang Gyatso Rinpoche\, and was requested to be the Resident Teacher of KMC Georgia in 2023. Whether it be through guided retreats or classes\, her playfulness and sincerity allow students to see how the teachings can benefit them in their busy modern lives. \nGen Kelsang Tabkay has been a practitioner of Kadampa Buddhism and student of Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso for 18 years. Ordained as a Buddhist monk in 2013\, he is the Resident Teacher of KMC South Carolina and previously\, KMC Phoenix. He has also guided many retreats at the International Kadampa Retreat Center Grand Canyon. He is known for giving accessible and practical teachings\, dedicating himself to bringing peace into the hearts of others. \nKadam Sharon Lovich has been practicing meditation and Kadampa Buddhism since 2003 and is the Resident teacher of the Je Tsongkhapa Kadampa Buddhist Center in Asheville since 2017. She has engaged in numerous focused meditation retreats and is known for teaching others how to develop a peaceful mind with great skill\, lightness\, and humor. \nEthan Lechner has been a practitioner of Kadampa Buddhism since 2008. In that time\, he has traveled throughout the world to receive teachings from Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso and the tradition’s most senior teachers.  Ethan is appreciated for his warm\, humorous\, and relatable style of teaching Dharma. \nABOUT THIS RETREAT\nWhat is a retreat? \nIn meditation retreat\, we take a break from our normal busyness to gain experience of a particular meditation practice. \nIn a retreat\, we have the opportunity to gain deeper concentration by letting go of our usual busyness\, preoccupations and worries\, to experience a spacious and life-enhancing perspective. \nEven with poor concentration\, we are generally more peaceful\, relaxed\, and happy on retreat than in our ordinary fast-paced\, externalized lives. \nWhether you’re a beginner or simply want to enjoy retreat in ideal conditions\, every aspect of these retreats are structured to help you refresh your mind through meditation. During the breaks enjoy meaningful conversation and the beauty and tranquility of the North Carolina Highlands. \nHow to prepare\nA wonderful way to prepare for this retreat is to read Venerable Geshe Kelsang Gyatso’s text Mahamudra Tantra or The Oral Instructions of the Mahamudra. \nRetreat Sessions\nSessions run between 60 and 75 minutes. The sessions combine practical instruction and time for meditation that will allow you to: \n\nconnect with an experience of true inner peace\ndevelop basic techniques that can help you to create a consistent habit of meditation\nleave with practical inner tools to apply what you have learned to your daily life\n\nDuring the Breaks\nBetween retreat sessions take time to relax and carry your experience of peace\, enjoy the tranquility of the grounds and connect and discuss with like-minded people. \nMake it a Digital Detox Weekend\nAre you feeling over-stimulated by the modern world and your phone is rarely out of your hand? Are you losing time to tech-based distraction? Is your phone draining you of energy to live with clarity and focus? Instead of sinking into habitual distraction\, now is the time to take back control of our mind. Consider leaving your phone in your car and taking a break. \nMorning Silence Practice\nDuring this retreat we will be practicing silence in the morning\, until after lunch. Silence is not just about not talking\, it is about developing an inner quality of stillness.\nIn silence\, we engage with the meditation object in a more intimate way. We start listening to the Dharma from deep within our heart which gives us a special inner experience of the teachings. Penetrating insights arise and since we are able to hold onto them with firm mindfulness we find Dharma experience pervades and nourishes our heart at a very deep level. \n  \nREGISTRATION DETAILS \nRegistration Deadline: November 23\, 2025 \nRegistration opens: August 11\, 2025 \nRegistration fee includes: \n\ndouble or single room\, or indoor camping bunkhouse\nbed linens\, towels and shower amenities\nall program fees\nvegetarian dinner on Friday\nvegetarian breakfast\, lunch and dinner on Saturday\nvegetarian breakfast on Sunday\naccess to The Mountain grounds\, facilities and hiking trails\n\nAdult costs: \nIMPORTANT: Expect simple\, rustic accommodations\, with basic amenities and a focus on nature. Contentment is an essential part of a successful meditation retreat. It will be cold\, so please bring a space heater\, additional blankets or sleeping bag\, and anything that will help you be more comfortable. \nSingle Room (limited availability)\n$490 per person\nSingle Occupancy rooms are now full. If you’re open to sharing a room\, please register for Double Occupancy. If you will only attend the retreat with a private room\, please sign up for the waitlist in Campwise. If you’re willing to sharing a room but want to be notified if a single opens up\, please register for Double Occupancy and then email your private room request to james.williamson@themountainrlc.org. Extra private rooms\, if available\, will be assigned about 1-2 weeks before the retreat. \nDouble or Triple Room\n$350 per person\nIf you don’t specify a roommate when you register\, one will be assigned to you in the same gender. \nIndoor Camping/Family Bunkhouse\n$290 per adult\nThis is an indoor camping experience in a rustic cabin. Cabins have an indoor bathroom and shower and mini-split heating unit. Perfect for families! \nChildren and young adults:   \nChildren may attend the retreat at a cost of $150 per child. We regret that children under 16 are not allowed in the main meditation room during sessions. A video link will be available in a comfortable quiet area reserved for families. \nAnyone under the age of 16 must be accompanied by two (2) nominated responsible adult carers over the age of 18. Those who are aged 16 and 17 years must be accompanied by an adult over 18. You will be asked to provide the names of the carers/accompanying adult at the point of booking\, and will be unable to complete the booking without it. This retreat is a public event and the care and safety of children and young adults remains at all times the responsibility of their parents/nominated carers/accompanying adult. For insurance purposes\, NKT-IKBU and the Retreat Organizers cannot take responsibility for children and young adults. Children (of all ages) must be under adult supervision at all times. \nHow to register: \n\nGo to The Mountain’s Portal\nOn the top right click on Registration Portal.\nCreate an account\nComplete your personal profile\nUnder “Program Classifications” select OTHER RETREATS\nSelect your room option\nSpecify dietary needs\, housing options and mobility needs\nSpecify roommate options. If this is left empty one will be assigned to you\nSubmit payment. Your spot is not secured until payment has been submitted.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/combined-meditation-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20251212
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20251215
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240907T173628Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251117T142951Z
UID:10000055-1765497600-1765756799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Fall Intermediate CON
DESCRIPTION:Fall Intermediate CON\nYouth Conventions or “CONs” are weekend long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade to high school. At heart\, a youth con is an experience in building covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \nSupported by the larger work of The Mountain\, each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the CON community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nWhen\nPALs Training: September 26 – 28\, 2025\nElementary (3rd – 5th graders): October 17 – 19\, 2025\nIntermediate (6th – 8th graders): December 12 – 14\, 2025\nSenior High (9th – 12th graders): November 14 – 16\, 2025 \nRegistration opens: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: 2 weeks prior to CON start date.\nIf your youth coordinator has given you a transfer code number please enter the number at the payment portion of the registration process\nIn our registration system\, select Youth CONferences \nFee\nThe Mountain is excited to announce a pilot program to better cover the costs of running The Mountain while still making it an accessible place for all who want to come. \nYouth\nTraditional Cost: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nTrue Cost: $215/person (Covers the whole cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nAdvisor\nSupporter 2: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nSupporter 1: $50/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nPlease email youthcamp@themountainrlc.org with any questions or concerns regarding this new price structure. \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/3013/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/334899_10151023045507690_282042849_o.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260116
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260119
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241116T172356Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251109T142413Z
UID:10000059-1768521600-1768780799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Winter GSV Retreat
DESCRIPTION:For our 2026 Winter Meditation gathering\, we will address the challenge of keeping our joy while all around us we find chaos or confusion. Thus\, the title of our 2026 Winter Meditation gathering: Keeping Our Joy (While the Dumpster Burns). \nWhen: January 16 – 18\, 2026\nRegistration: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: January 2\, 2026 \nGay Spirit Visions Website \nClick Here to Register! \n 
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2025-winter-gsv-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/WinterMeditation2025Image-300x169-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260130
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260202
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240907T165936Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251126T213128Z
UID:10000053-1769731200-1769990399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring PAL Planning Weekend
DESCRIPTION:Spring PAL Planning Weekend\n​Youth “CONs” are weekend-long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade through high school. At heart\, a youth CON is an experience in building a covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \n​Each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the con community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nThank you for your interest. We look forward to receiving your application and working together for the Spring CON season. \nPeer Advocate Leaders (PAL) and Mentors (Age 16 & up) gather to plan the upcoming Youth CONference season at The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center. The focus of this weekend is to build a program for all ages that is aligned with our Unitarian Universalist values as a supplement to congregational Religious Education programs. Space is limited to 25 registrants for the weekend. Only register if you plan on attending one or more of the Youth Conferences during the season. \nFee\nThere is no fee for becoming a PAL or Mentors\nIncludes food and housing \nWhen\nJanuary 30 – February 1\, 2026\nCheck in begins at 7pm on Friday\nCheck out at 11am on Sunday\nRegistration: Coming soon!\nRegistration deadline: TBD
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-pal-planning-weekend/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/37671846_861534270637276_475882671461053.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260206
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260209
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241116T172801Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251109T142703Z
UID:10000060-1770336000-1770595199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:UU Emerson Choir Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The annual retreat of the UU Church of Emerson’s choir. Registration is done through your group. Contact Kathy Mittelman for more information.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/uu-athens-and-uu-emerson-choir-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/istockphoto-183305123-612x612-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260213
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260223
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241116T173517Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251020T213543Z
UID:10000061-1770940800-1771804799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:UU Columbia Work Week
DESCRIPTION:Members of the UU Columbia church gather at The Mountain to help us open back up for the spring. All skill sets welcome. Build community while making a difference!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/uu-columbia-work-weekend/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/UUCC_customLogo.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260220
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260223
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251020T212459Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251126T212727Z
UID:10000116-1771545600-1771804799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring Elementary CON
DESCRIPTION:Youth Conventions or “CONs” are weekend long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade to high school. At heart\, a youth con is an experience in building covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \nSupported by the larger work of The Mountain\, each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the CON community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nWhen\nPAL Training: January 30 – February 1\, 2026\nElementary (3rd – 5th graders): February 20-22\, 2026\nIntermediate (6th – 8th graders): March 6-8\, 2026\nSenior High (9th – 12th graders): March 27-29\, 2026 \nRegistration opens: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: 2 weeks prior to CON start date.\nIf your youth coordinator has given you a transfer code number please enter the number at the payment portion of the registration process\nIn our registration system\, select Youth CONferences \nFee\nWe’ve seen great success with the sliding scale fee for the Fall CONs and will continue the system into 2026. Please email youthcamp@themountainrlc.org with any questions or concerns regarding the fee. \nYouth\nTraditional Cost: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nTrue Cost: $215/person (Covers the whole cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nAdvisor\nSupporter 2: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nSupporter 1: $50/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-elementary-con/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260306
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260309
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251020T212753Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251126T212707Z
UID:10000117-1772755200-1773014399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring Intermediate CON
DESCRIPTION:Youth Conventions or “CONs” are weekend long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade to high school. At heart\, a youth con is an experience in building covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \nSupported by the larger work of The Mountain\, each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the CON community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nWhen\nPAL Training: January 30 – February 1\, 2026\nElementary (3rd – 5th graders): February 20-22\, 2026\nIntermediate (6th – 8th graders): March 6-8\, 2026\nSenior High (9th – 12th graders): March 27-29\, 2026 \nRegistration opens: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: 2 weeks prior to CON start date.\nIf your youth coordinator has given you a transfer code number please enter the number at the payment portion of the registration process\nIn our registration system\, select Youth CONferences \nFee\nWe’ve seen great success with the sliding scale fee for the Fall CONs and will continue the system into 2026. Please email youthcamp@themountainrlc.org with any questions or concerns regarding the fee. \nYouth\nTraditional Cost: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nTrue Cost: $215/person (Covers the whole cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nAdvisor\nSupporter 2: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nSupporter 1: $50/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-intermediate-con/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260312
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260316
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241116T174226Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260118T161949Z
UID:10000062-1773273600-1773619199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Metro Atlanta Contemporary Quilters
DESCRIPTION:Our guild started in 2010 as the Atlanta Modern Quilt Guild to offer a place for the more non-traditional and modern quilters to connect and create\, and our meetings reflect this casual energy. \nWe rebranded as the Metro Atlanta Contemporary Quilters (MACQ) in 2022. \nThis is the annual retreat for the MACQ at The Mountain! \nRegistration\nRetreat dates: March 12 – 15\, 2026 \nRegistration status: Now open! \nRegistration closes: February 26\, 2026\n \nFees (not including 6.75% NC sales tax): \nIncludes meals\, lodging and amenities for 3 nights! \nAdult Double Occupancy (sharing a room): $405 \nAdult Single Occupancy (private): $615 \nClick here to register!\nIn our Registration Portal\, check the box for “Other Retreats” and scroll for “2026 Metro Atlanta Contemporary Quilters” to find options.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/metro-atlantas-quilter-guild/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260313
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260316
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240917T171807Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251212T213943Z
UID:10000057-1773360000-1773619199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:TVUUC Annual Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The annual Tennessee Valley UU Church retreat. \nRegistration\nRegistration status: Now online! \nRegistration deadline: February 27\, 2026 \nFees\nAdult Double Occupancy: $240 per person \nAdult Single Occupancy (limited availability): $380 \nYouth 12-17: $140 per person \nChild 4-11: $110 per person \nToddler 0-3: Free \nClick Here to Register
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2025-tvuuc-annual-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/unnamed-2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260319
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260323
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20240521T130328Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T202349Z
UID:10000017-1773878400-1774223999@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring 5Rhythms Dance Movement Retreat
DESCRIPTION:HORIZON: This is the year to move forward on your dreams. What are you calling in? \n2026 in Chinese astrology is the year of the Fire Horse and a 1 year in numerology\, which means this is THE year when everything–your hopes &  dreams for your life and the world–moves forward. \nThis is THE year to initiate a: \nsubstantial creative project\nnew life direction\nlong-held but not acted on calling\nsmall seed that needs tending \nWhatever it is you wish to call forward\, this is THE moment andTHE workshop where we do that work\, together. \n“There is an unseen life that DREAMS us. It knows our true direction and destiny.” ~~John O’Donohue \n“DREAMS are a technology\, a guidance system\, an idea factory\, a reality. ~~Jen Lemen \n“One of the biggest things for the DREAMER to remember is that their body is a seer\, a dowsing rod\, an oracle.” ~~Daje Aloh \nWhen we step out of our daily lives for a moment and into the dreamtime\, we can access what our soul path wants us to know by listening to the guidance from our bodies and the nature-based intelligence around us. We feel into what is calling to us from deep within our longing. We conjure this desire forth and embody it so it begins to take a palpable shape\, a wish that seductively says “hello you\, I’m ready to be real.” But fair warning\, this is often life-altering work that demands your presence\, attention and nurturing to make happen. \nThis is the alchemical power of our dance practice in which we embody\, enchant and ignite those desires so they are no longer ignored or delayed. The astrological weather of this year fully supports bringing them to life. The time is NOW to go after what you want and what the world needs from you that ONLY you can create. \n“We can REDREAM this world and make the DREAM come real. Human beings are gods hidden from themselves. The only hope is in daring to REDREAM one’s place in the world–a beautiful act of IMAGINATION\, and a sustained act of self-becoming.” ~~Ben Okri \n“If we build dreams for ourselves they will be too small\, it has to be for others.” ~~Billy Almon \n“Really play with the idea of becoming unrecognisable a year from now. Play with the idea of being bolder. Softer. More confident. Supported. Known. Met. Free. Liberated. Get curious about what it means to shapeshift. Really allow yourself. ~~Daje Aloh \nWe do this dreaming together in a residential workshop\, holding each other’s dreams as sacredly as we hold our own because often our dreams feel daunting. We need witnessing and support from the collective as fuel for our desires\, and the community created at these workshops is a magic unto itself as lifelong friendships emerge. \n“Dancing is an ancient form of magic\, an act of creation. It brings about a new situation and summons into the dancer a new and higher personality. It has a cosmogonic function\, in that it arouses dormant energies which may shape the world.” ~~Heinrich Zimmer \n“When we give ourselves over completely to the dance\, it becomes a prayer.” ~~Gabrielle Roth \nYou will be guided by the wisdom of the 5Rhythms map and by Julie Stuart\, an accredited 5Rhythms teacher and skilled practitioner of the art of emergence. \n  \nWe’ll be dancing at the top of a mountain in the southern Appalachians\, the world’s oldest mountains\, on ancestral Cherokee land and weaving our explorations with the land and the sentient beings who live there. \n  \nThis workshop is for people who are new to 5Rhythms or who have danced the practice for decades. We welcome people of all cultures\, colours\, creeds\, all genders and sexualities\, all sizes\, abilities and life stages. You don’t need to feel strong or energetic to join us. You can do this whole practice from a chair or the floor. \nIf you’re interested in contributing to a scholarship fund so that we can offer this workshop to folks who can’t self-fund\, you can send money to Julie which will be passed along directly. Venmo: julie-stuart-12 and paypal: jnbstuart@gmail.com \nI can’t wait to welcome you there. Please send me any questions or concerns you may have. \nwith so much love\, \nJulie \n5Rhythms is a guided dance practice that powerfully catalyzes our body’s wild intelligence in a freely expressed movement meditation. \nSchedule\nCheck in as early as 3 pm on Thursday\, dinner is at 6 pm and we begin in the Treehouse at 7:30 pm. We conclude on Sunday at 11:30 am and have lunch\, which is optional\, at noon. \nRegistration\nStatus: Open now!\nDeadline: March 5\, 2026. After this\, registration is not guaranteed. \nFees\nYou will be making TWO payments. One to Julie for the program fee and another to the Mountain for your lodging and meals. \nRoom & Board \nDouble Occupancy: $420 + tax \nSingle Occupancy (limited availability): $630 + tax \nBunkhouse: $360 + tax \nCommuter: $210 + tax \nProgram Fee \nRequired\, pay Julie directly via Zelle (preferred): julie@makingideasvisible.com\nPaypal: julie@makingideasvisible.com\nVenmo: @juliestuart-workshops \n$415 regular\n$295 5RTA\n$260 crew (with approval) \nNote: You can register now and full payment for Room and Board is not due until March 5 2026. \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-5rhythms-dance-movement-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Horizon-March-2026-1.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260327
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260330
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251020T213052Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251126T212648Z
UID:10000118-1774569600-1774828799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring Senior High CON
DESCRIPTION:Youth Conventions or “CONs” are weekend long events planned by youth with adult support for youth from third grade to high school. At heart\, a youth con is an experience in building covenantal community and empowering youth leadership. \nSupported by the larger work of The Mountain\, each con has a different theme and focus\, but they all incorporate community building\, fun\, worship\, and exploration of spirituality. Each event has its own covenant and is in covenant with The Mountain’s safety policies. Youth experience both the safety of being in a covenantal community and the responsibility to repair relationships when difficult situations arise. \nYouth have the opportunity to serve in leadership roles to help plan events\, help run events\, help the CON community live in covenant\, or be peer chaplains for emotional support. \nWhen\nPAL Training: January 30 – February 1\, 2026\nElementary (3rd – 5th graders): February 20-22\, 2026\nIntermediate (6th – 8th graders): March 6-8\, 2026\nSenior High (9th – 12th graders): March 27-29\, 2026 \nRegistration opens: Open now!\nRegistration deadline: 2 weeks prior to CON start date.\nIf your youth coordinator has given you a transfer code number please enter the number at the payment portion of the registration process\nIn our registration system\, select Youth CONferences \nFee\nWe’ve seen great success with the sliding scale fee for the Fall CONs and will continue the system into 2026. Please email youthcamp@themountainrlc.org with any questions or concerns regarding the fee. \nYouth\nTraditional Cost: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nTrue Cost: $215/person (Covers the whole cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nAdvisor\nSupporter 2: $100/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nSupporter 1: $50/person (Covers part of the cost of the weekend)\nNo Cost: Free \nPlease email youthcamp@themountainrlc.org with any questions or concerns regarding this new price structure. \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-senior-high-con-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/65484884_1243640852426614_30005770290211.webp
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260402
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260406
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20250104T221056Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260109T161045Z
UID:10000079-1775088000-1775433599@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:2026 Easter Volunteer Stewardship Weekend
DESCRIPTION:About\nJoin our staff April 2 – 5\, 2026 for our annual spring volunteer work weekend. This is a fun and gratifying weekend helping us get The Mountain ready for another season. This will help us get some much needed projects done and cleanup after a long winter. \nThere will be a wide variety of projects for all skillsets. We will be doing road and trail clearing\, repairing of cabin decks\, simple housekeeping\, building some shelving/clothing racks for cabins\, wood trim repairs etc. Or you can work in the kitchen to help feed us all! This is a great opportunity to meet new friends and learn new skills if you want. Plus\, you get to spend time at The Mountain! \nWhen\nDates: April 2 – 5\, 2026\nRegistration deadline: March 26\, 2026\nRegistration: Opening soon! \nRegistration\nEach person must be registered.\nShared lodging will be provided at no charge to all who work 6 hours a day\nRegistration fee is to cover cost of food.\n \n4 day / 3 night per person (ages 8-99)         $75.00 \n3 day / 2 night per person (ages 8-99)         $50.00 \nChildren under age 8                                        FREE \n1-Day Commuters (Saturday lunch)              $10.00 \n2-Day Commuters (Sat & Sun lunch)            $20.00 \nClick Here to Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2025-easter-volunteer-stewardship-weekend/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_6514-scaled.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260406
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260410
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T194431Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260322T204244Z
UID:10000067-1775433600-1775779199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:SEUUMA Spring Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The annual spring SEUUMA retreat! \nRegistration\nRegistration status: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: April 5\, 2026 \nFees\nAdult Double Occupancy – $360 \nAdult Single Occupancy – $570 \nYouth 12-17 – $189 \nChildren 4-11 – $148.50 \nToddler 0-3 – Free! \nRegistration Instructions:\n\nGo to The Mountain’s Portal\nOn the top right click on Registration Portal.\nCreate an account\nComplete your personal profile\nUnder “Program Classifications” select CHURCH RETREATS\nSelect your room option\nSpecify dietary needs\, housing options and mobility needs\nSpecify roommate options. If this is left empty one will be assigned to you\nSubmit payment. Your spot is not secured until payment has been submitted.\n\nClick here to register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-seuuma/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/SEUUMA-Spring-Retreat-2026.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260409
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260413
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20260131T132725Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260131T132725Z
UID:10000127-1775692800-1776038399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:2026 Zenergy: Opening to Life Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Opening to Life: A Women’s Retreat\nOpening to Life is a four-day mountain retreat for women ready to slow down\, reconnect\, and return to themselves. Led by Jenni Morris\, this immersive experience blends gentle yoga\, guided breathwork\, nature walks\, women’s circles\, and deeply restorative evening practices. Set among sweeping mountain views and fresh air\, the retreat offers space to step away from the pace of daily life and come home feeling clearer\, calmer\, and more connected to your inner vitality. Thoughtfully held and intentionally paced\, Opening to Life invites women into rest\, reflection\, meaningful connection\, and renewed aliveness. \nLearn More and Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/2026-zenergy-opening-to-life-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/GOPR0137_JPG.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260416
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T193450Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260206T200315Z
UID:10000065-1776297600-1776643199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring Retreat: Rise Up Rooted\, A Women's Retreat
DESCRIPTION:As spring emerges\, the creative potential of new beginnings and possibilities awakens within us. We will\, as eons of women before us have done\, intentionally align with the energies of spring to anchor deeply into ourselves.  Together\, we will unfurl from the stagnation of winter and rise up to embody the fullest expression of ourselves and create the foundation to bring our passions to fruition this year. As part of our journey together\, we will reclaim and nurture parts of ourselves that have not been tended to or have been forgotten with the passage of time. It is a time to remember\, reclaim\, celebrate\, and heal. \nWithin the sacred space of ceremony\, you will be supported to release old patterns that have caused you to feel stuck. Through masterfully curated yoga\, somatic\, energy medicine\, mindfulness\, and nature practices\, you will reclaim your center and restore flow to experience more abundant energy and vitality to thrive where you are planted. \nAs part of this experience\, you will learn strategies for integrating the retreat experience into your everyday life for continued healing and transformation. To rise up rooted is a journey\, and with this extended retreat\, you will be taken through a journey of reclamation—which is the medicine of spring. \nClick here to learn more and register. \n 
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-retreat-rise-up-rooted-a-womens-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/IMG_3656-864x1024-1.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260417
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260420
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251109T173259Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260403T201954Z
UID:10000119-1776384000-1776643199@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Holy Trinity Parish Women's Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The inaugural retreat for the Holy Trinity Parish Women’s Retreat! \nWhen\nRetreat dates: April 17 – 19\, 2026\nRegistration status: Now open!\nRegistration deadline: April 3\, 2026 \nFee\nDouble Occupancy (sharing a room) – $270 per person\nSingle Occupancy (by yourself\, with Ellen’s permission) – $410 person \nHow to Register \n\nGo to The Mountain’s website\nClick on Registration Portal in the top right\nCreate an account\nComplete your personal profile and register for a retreat\nUnder “Program Classifications” select CHURCH RETREATS\nFind and select your retreat\nSpecify dietary needs\, housing options and mobility needs\nSpecify roommate options. If this is left empty one will be assigned to you\nSubmit payment. Your spot is not secured until payment has been submitted.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/holy-trinity-parish-womens-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Untitled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260418T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20260325T134105Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T184725Z
UID:10000138-1776517200-1776528000@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Farm Event: Earth Day Celebration
DESCRIPTION:Rain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/earth-day-celebration/
CATEGORIES:Farm Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/Log-Inoculation-2025-10-11.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260422
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260427
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T195713Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T031448Z
UID:10000073-1776816000-1777247999@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:UUWomenspirit Spring 2026: Be Where Your Feet Are
DESCRIPTION:UUWomenspirit Spring 2026: Be Where Your Feet Are\nApril 22 — April 26 \nThis spring\, we return to Little Scaly Mountain — a place of ancient stones\, rushing water\, and deep-rooted presence. Our theme\, Be Where Your Feet Are\, invites us to reconnect with the natural world\, the Feminine Divine\, and the grounding wisdom of the land. \nWhat to expect: \n·       Workshops in poetry\, sound healing\, birding\, creative arts\, movement\, and more \n·       A retreat aligned with Earth Day\, honoring our relationship with the planet \n·       Sacred circle\, community\, laughter\, reflection\, and renewal \n·       Beautiful mountain vistas\, forest paths\, and quiet spaces for restoration \nUUWomenspirit has gathered women in sacred circle since 1987\, celebrating Earth-centered spirituality and the Feminine Divine. All women are warmly welcomed. \nWe can’t wait to greet you on the Mountain. \nClick Here to Learn More and Register!
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-uuwomenspirit-gathering-and-institute/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Spring-2026-UUWS-Logo-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260425T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20260325T132503Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260328T184252Z
UID:10000129-1777122000-1777132800@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Farm Event: Nurture with Nature - Wild Foraged Herbal Salve Making
DESCRIPTION:Please join us for this hands-on workshop where you will learn to identify and sustainably forage your own herbs\, learn to infuse and blend oils and combine them into a deeply nourishing\, healing salve. Whether you are new to natural remedies or simply interested in self care\, this is a skill you will be grateful for. You will even leave with a completed salve made by YOU and customized to the care you need.! \n\nLearn to identify wild medicinal herbs and their uses\nLearn to sustainably forage and harvest these herbs\nLearn the steps needed to infuse oils at home\nLearn the ingredients necessary\nCustomize your own nourishing salve\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-nurture-with-nature-wild-foraged-herbal-salve-making/
CATEGORIES:Farm Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/farm-logo-dark.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260501
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260504
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T195332Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260117T160513Z
UID:10000071-1777593600-1777852799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:The Highlands Retreat
DESCRIPTION:The Highlands Retreat is an annual weekend-long gathering of the LGBTQIA+ community and their friends celebrating recovery and those interested in finding out what recovery has to offer. \nThe Retreat offers the perfect blend of workshops and activities as well as an opportunity to meet and fellowship with others in recovery from different parts of the country. \nThe Highlands Retreat Website \nRegistration\nRetreat dates: May 1 – 3\, 2026 \nRegistration status: Now open! \nRegistration deadline: April 17\, 2026 \nFees\nDouble Occupancy: $270 + tax \nSingle Occupancy (limited availability): $410 + tax \nTent Camping/Commuting: $120 + tax \nAll participants must pay a REQUIRED $45 program fee. \nClick Here to Register!\nIn our registration system\, select “Other Retreats” then your “2026 The Highlands Retreat” package. \n 
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/the-highlands-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/ce2e33_346665d8514c4043b2b919374e988108mv2.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260502T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20260325T134038Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T134038Z
UID:10000139-1777726800-1777737600@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Farm Event: Community Meet and Greet
DESCRIPTION:Rain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-community-meet-and-greet/
CATEGORIES:Farm Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/farm-logo-dark.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260507
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260511
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20251109T180048Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251109T180048Z
UID:10000120-1778112000-1778457599@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Global Firewalk Gathering
DESCRIPTION:9th International Firewalk Gathering\nThe 2026 Gathering: Americas Edition\nCelebrating Family & Kinship\nMore Information and Registration
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/global-firewalk-gathering/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/FWG-Logo.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260515
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260518
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T195515Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251109T181616Z
UID:10000072-1778803200-1779062399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Spring GSV Retreat
DESCRIPTION:Check back in 2026 for more information! \nGay Spirit Visions Website
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/spring-gsv-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/gsv_masthead_logo_150.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260522
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260526
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T195821Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260407T031350Z
UID:10000074-1779408000-1779753599@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Homecoming
DESCRIPTION:Join us for our 46th Annual Gathering of Members and Friends. \nWe will gather for three days of in the extraordinary natural environment of The Mountain\, renewing old connections and making new ones! Along with wonderful workshops\, entertainment and our Annual meeting\, we will speak of current projects and possibilities for the future. \nWhat to Expect \nUpdates and tours of Mountain programs and facilities.\nCapital Campaign: Roots and Wings​\nOther Activities \nAnnual Meeting\nEndowment Dessert Reception\nMemorial Service\nWorship Service\nHikes on Mountain trails\nGathering on the deck to enjoy Blue Valley\, watching birds floating on the air currents as we enjoy conversation with previous and new friends. \nClick Here for the Homecoming Schedule!\nWhen\nProgram: May 22 – 25\, 2026\nRegistration status: Now open!\nRegistration Deadline: May 8\, 2026 \nFees \nAdult Double Occupancy: $130/person/night\nAdult Single Occupancy (subject to limited capacity): $200/person/night\nAdult Bunkhouse: $110/person/night\nYouth 12-17: $85/person/night\nChild 4-11: $65/person/night\nToddler 0-3: Free\nCommuter: $60/person/night \nRegister Here!\nIn our registration portal\, choose “Other Retreats” \n 
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/homecoming-2/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/542642194-1-scaled.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T130000
DTEND;TZID=America/New_York:20260523T160000
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20260325T132033Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T132033Z
UID:10000130-1779541200-1779552000@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Farm Event: Forage and Feast
DESCRIPTION:Come roam the edges of the mountain meadow and old growth forest for delicious\, nutritious wild plants and mushrooms. Here we will learn the skills to identify and sustainably forage these wild foods. We will learn of the traditional uses and legends behind these natives. Then join us at a table outside on the farm and allow us to prepare these nutritional powerhouse foods for you. During this demonstration you will establish proper preparation and cooking techniques and will even leave with a few recipes. Taste\, discover\, connect and be with nature. \n\nBYOB possible\nLearn to identify wild edibles and their toxic lookalikes\nLearn to sustainability forage and harvest wild edibles\nLearn traditional uses\nLearn Appalachian legends and lore\nLearn how to prepare your harvest\nLearn traditional and modern cooking techniques\nLeave with nutritional wild recipes\n\nRain Policy\nAll of our events have indoor rain plans as backups in case of adverse weather. Please dress accordingly and bring rain gear if the forecast looks to be really wet! \nRefund Policy\nIf you must cancel your reservation to one of our events then please let us know\, at the latest\, 48 hours before the scheduled time. If an unexpected emergency occurs then please let us know ASAP by emailing farm@themountainrlc.org. For both options\, we can offer you the opportunity to attend a future event.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/farm-event-forage-and-feast-2/
CATEGORIES:Farm Events
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://www.themountainrlc.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/farm-logo-dark.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260527
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260602
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20250303T203018Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260228T174654Z
UID:10000092-1779840000-1780358399@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Journey Through Grief with Grace
DESCRIPTION:Dates: Arrive by 5 pm on May 27\, depart after breakfast on June 1\, 2026\nLocation: The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center\, located up in the beautiful Smokey\nMountains near Highlands\,NC. \nJoin us for a transformative 4-day retreat designed specifically for mothers who have experienced the profound loss of a child due to addiction\, fentanyl poisoning\, or issues related to mental health or suicide. This retreat offers a safe and nurturing environment to connect with other mothers who share similar experiences\, and to explore pathways to loving connection with our children and renewal of our broken hearts. In order to assure an intimate and emotionally comforting container\, we are limiting the number of participants to 16 women. \nWhat previous attendees have shared:\nThe waterfall trip helped me to let go of my guilt with the water. So many things that Charlotte said and did. Life changing revelation provided by Charlotte was helping me to & “make friends with my grief”. This grief will be with me forever. I had never thought to make friends with it. This has been the greatest gift in helping with my pain and sadness. \nThe grief retreat was truly life-transforming. It helped me move from a place of anger to one of acceptance. Hearing feedback from other mothers who had also lost a child was deeply healing—because we shared the same experience\, it was rooted in empathy\, not sympathy. We laughed\, we healed\, and the ceremonies guided me through remembering\, releasing\, and renewing. My grief was reframed—from a space of lonely sadness and isolation to one of connection\, bonding\, and emotional freedom. . In everyday life\, it can be difficult to talk about a child who has passed—people often don’t know what to say and can become uncomfortable. But at the retreat\, the other moms truly listened. They welcomed stories and memories of our children with open hearts. Being able to share and be heard with genuine care meant so much to me. \nAttending the Journey through Grace retreat was cathartic. It was absolutely the best thing I have done for myself since the passing of my son. It would be wonderful to live life everyday the way I lived those six days at the retreat. If this becomes an annual event\, I will be there. \nThe Journey through Grief with Grace retreat is a must attend for anyone experiencing the debilitating and overwhelming sadness of losing a child. Being surrounded by others who share the same loss is like being wrapped in a warm and comforting hug. Charlotte leads the group with kindnesss\, strength \, compassion and grace\, herself. This retreat has changed the cycle of grieving that I was experiencing. I departed the retreat filled with hope for the future\, with decreased guilt surrounding the loss of my son\, and with a profound love for my sisters in grief. \nThe retreat was an amazing experience for me. I am grateful for the opportunity to find new ways to process my grief. I felt very connected with my daughter across the veil which brings me comfort particularly in the days when the sadness seems heavier. Being immersed nature felt energetic and healing. It was a honor to witness the vulnerability and be in the presence of such amazing women. \nWhat to Expect:\nSacred Sharing Circles: Engage in heartfelt conversations with other mothers in a supportive and compassionate setting.\nRituals and Ceremonies: Participate in meaningful rituals and ceremonies that honor your child and support your healing journey.\nConnection with your loved one: Community blessings and remembrance of our children will awaken and deepen your personal connection with your child across the veil.\nSound Bath: Experience the deep healing and restoration with tibetan bowls. A truly enriching and expansive soul bath.\nDrumming Circle: Vibrational and somatic healing occurs when we rhythmically express our feelings with drums\, rattles\, dancing\, and chanting. A group from Wayfarer’s Chapel in Dillard\, Georgia will just us for a night of drumming on the full moon.\nCreative awareness: Express your emotions and memories through creative art and writing experiences.\nMindfulness and Gentle Movement Practices: Learn mindfulness\, meditations\, and gentle movement techniques to cultivate presence\, calm\, and emotional resilience.\nHealing with Nature: Honor the sacred grounds of these ancient mountains\, meditate near lichen said to exceed 1000 years of growth\, walk amidst the forest to open your heart to life.\nChakra Healing: Explore how your energetic body holds and transforms your grief into love. \nBonus Opportunities:\nAn introductory Zoom call will occur on May 13 at 7:00 pm Eastern time for all registered participants. The collective ‘circle of grace’ will begin forming at that time\, as we each prepare for this transformative journey. The Zoom link will be made available once payment has been made in full.\nTwo virtual sessions will be offered by Charlotte following the retreat designed to support ‘re-entry’ into our daily lives\, and to encourage ongoing practices to support our personal Grief with Grace journeys. \nOne on One Support:\nCharlotte is available for one on one sessions following the retreat; participants will receive a ten percent discount off the price of the sessions. \nRetreat Highlights\nNourishing Meals: Savor three healthy and delicious meals daily that support your well-being throughout the retreat. Special dietary needs can be accommodated. \nLodging: The on-site lodge will be dedicated to our retreat\, providing a nurturing space to connect\, rest\, and restore. The price of the retreat for five nights is based on shared lodging. Each room has at least two twin beds and a private bathroom. Mountain temperatures are typically mild and cool in the evening but can be a bit warmer mid afternoon. \nAbout Charlotte Starfire:\n \nStarfire is a mystic\, a writer\, public speaker\, trauma-informed yoga\, mindfulness and meditation practitioner\, a ceremonialist\, ritualist\, workshop facilitator\, spiritual intuitive guide\, and grief educator. These lifelong skills have helped her navigate her deep grief after the loss of her son\, Janaka Jaya\, at age 37 from fentanyl poisoning after years of suffering from substance use\ndisorder. \nCharlotte is focusing on supporting parents in grief through her work as a Group Leader in Love in The Trenches\, as well as developing in-person wellness retreats for mothers seeking pathways to transform their painful grief into self- love and compassion. She recently retired from a career in international trade financing\, and is currently writing several books and poetry with her beloved son as her ‘muse’ across the veil. She lives in the Blue Ridge Mountains in Northeast Georgia along with her senior Corgi named Shambo\, and her service dog\, Emma\, a golden doodle. \nAbout Dori-Moreno:\n \nDori Moreno-Korn lost her daughter\, Mia Justice\, in March of 2022 at the age of 23. Mia battled with anxiety\, an eating disorder\, and eventually a substance use disorder. She sought recovery several times; however\, after five years\, she passed due to an accidental overdose. \nIn the three years since Mia passed\, Dori has participated in and led grief support groups for parents with the same type of loss\, fundraised for advocacy organizations and is finishing her David Kessler Grief Educator certification to provide support to anyone experiencing grief. \nMia was an artist and\, therefore\, in celebration of Mia’s life\, Dori works to publish and share Mia’s art; a story of a young woman who despite substance use disorder lived with great passion and many loves. \nAt this retreat Dori would like to help us all celebrate and honor our child’s whole life and to speak their names while we heal our own hearts. \nAbout Betsy Winter:\n \nBetsy Winter has been teaching and providing services in the area of mind-body-spirit connection for over 30 years as a massage therapist (now retired)\, yoga instructor\, meditation and vibrational (energy) and sound practitioner. In her career as a Developmental Specialist at a Children’s Hospital\, she helped parents\, children\, and staff cope with stress\, grief\, and difficult life circumstances. These experiences and tools have assisted her as she navigates her own grief process since her son died 3 years ago. Betsy is registered with Yoga Alliance as a 200 hour E-RYT and a 500 hour RYT yoga instructor sharing Kali Natha Yoga\, a lineage yoga taught by Ma Jaya. \nBetsy’s career as a healing arts professional spans over three decades\, primarily in the field of early child development and neonatal care. Other healing modalities include Healing Touch\, Therapeutic Touch\, Reiki\, and the use of the Himalayan Singing Bowls and tuning forks to help balance the body-mind and promote health and feelings of well-being. She started massage therapy programs for pediatric patients at 2 different children’s hospitals. She now chooses to focus on yoga because the skills learned in yoga are easily incorporated into everyday life and provide so many benefits. One can expect her classes to promote stress-reduction\, enhanced selfcare\, and greater strength and flexibility….and certainly a lighthearted and fun atmosphere. \nA Special Event\nRetreat participants will have a special treat one evening. A private sing along concert by Sweet Charity Playing It Forward. Uplifting music to soothe our hearts from songs we all know including Top 10 Soft Rock\, Classic Rock\, Folk and Country favorites. \n  \nCost and Transportation\nThe cost of the retreat which includes 5 nights of shared lodging\, a private bathroom\, and three meals daily\, plus an enriching learning and sharing curriculum is $1750. Private rooms may be available on a first come first available basis for an extra cost of $350. \nTransportation costs and arrangements on your own. Shuttle service is available from the Asheville Airport and the Atlanta Airport. Asheville is closest\, but there are more limited direct flights there. Participants will be supported in coordinating and sharing shuttle services. \nPlease reach out for financial assistance. We hope to have donations to offer limited discounts for those who are facing financial challenges to attend. If you are interested in assistance\, please email Charlotte at Charlotte.Starfire@gmail.com. \nSpaces are limited to 16 registrants ensure a deeply enriching experience. An initial non-refundable deposit of $500 is due at the time of registration. Final payment is then due by April 30\, unless specific arrangements are discussed and approved by Charlotte. Please register early to secure your spot. We look forward to welcoming you to this special retreat where you can find solace\, strength\, and a renewed sense of hope. \nContact Information: For more information\, please contact Charlotte Starfire at 813-833-7776 or Charlotte.Starfire@gmail.com. \nClick Here to Register!\nWhen prompted\, select “Other Retreat”\, then 2026 Journey Through Grief With Grace. \nPlease consider ‘paying it forward’ to assist others with financial challenges to attend. Tax deductible donations to offset the cost of a mother’s attendance can be made directly to The Mountain Retreat and Learning Center\, a 501c3. Please consider a generous donation. When making a donation through PayPal\, select “Starfire Scholarship Fund – Private” from the dropdown menu. PayPal charges a ~2.5% fee on your donation. If you want the full amount to go towards a scholarship\, please mail a check to our PO Box and put in the description line that it’s for the Starfire retreat.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/journey-through-grief-with-grace/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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DTSTART;VALUE=DATE:20260604
DTEND;VALUE=DATE:20260608
DTSTAMP:20260409T183326
CREATED:20241118T195945Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T221204Z
UID:10000075-1780531200-1780876799@www.themountainrlc.org
SUMMARY:Performing Artists Retreat
DESCRIPTION:This retreat is a Private Event.
URL:https://www.themountainrlc.org/event/performing-artists-retreat/
CATEGORIES:Public Events
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