Experience Reality
Theological Reflection
Spiritual Formation
Practical Engagement
About
Experience Reality has prepared two inspirational spaces for you to soak in the goodness of the Triune God and the reality of Christ’s love for all of creation. The Glen (Durham, NC) and Sunrise Point (Kerr Lake, VA) each provide a beautiful setting where people can discover the beauty of the gospel. Everyone is welcome!
At Experience Reality gatherings, host Jeff McSwain and featured guest speakers will encourage retreatants with a Christ-centered perspective that pushes past the false dichotomy of sacred and secular. At "Theology Matters" sessions, participants may contemplate dimensions of poetry, music, and spoken word, or grapple with challenging societal issues, all within the framework of the divine mercy and the all-along-belonging of humanity to God. For those interested in diving more deeply into biblical and theological themes, the "Reflection Study" with Jeff offers time for engaging with a reading.
We are always mindful of the power of beauty and the peaceful aesthetic of our surroundings which prompt us to prayer and meditation. In addition to gatherings, make time to visit the Glen for a day of personal solitude and
reflection. Come traverse the expansive landscape and find your favorite spot for peaceful contemplation. Participate in a planting or beautification project
"Action on behalf of life transforms. Because the relationship between self and the world is reciprocal, it is not a question of first getting enlightened or saved and then acting. As we work to heal the earth, the earth heals us."
- Robin Kimmerer, Braiding Sweetgrass
We are grateful for all who have stewarded this land before us. Please read the Land Acknowledgement seeking especially to give credit and honor to the Indigenous and enslaved people who inhabited and cultivated this area.
Theology
The Glen and Sunrise Point are consecrated for the proclaiming of the gospel of Jesus Christ, the Creator who became a creature, the One who provides the best possible expression of the unconditional love of God for every human being.
The central question-who is Jesus Christ and who are we in Christ-naturally ushers us to the how questions:
How can we find healing as people and in the human community at large?
How does Christ-centered theology drive ministry practice, and in turn how does ministry practice reflect Christ-centered theology?
How are we to understand that “Christ is our life” (Col 3:4) in the realm of interpersonal relationships and gospel expressions of social justice?
How should the Church engage with the world?
How can we be led by the Holy Spirit to be part of the solution regarding polarizing challenges, from racial justice to stewarding the environment?
We will search the Old and New Testament scriptures with an eye towards more deeply grasping God’s transformational answer: the grace and truth of “Jesus Christ and him crucified” (1 Cor 2:2). We hope that when people leave an Experience Reality gathering or retreat, they will feel encouraged and renewed in the marvelous love of God.
Contact
Feel free to reach out to our office at admin@experiencereality.org
Check out Jeff’s theological work, including books, articles, and podcasts, at jeffmcswain.org.
If you are interested in more information about The Glen, Sunrise Point, or Experience Reality please add your information to our e-news list. Periodic emails will include information about upcoming public events, registration and accommodation.
Check the events calendar for upcoming gatherings at either The Glen or Sunrise Point, and also for open dates to make plans for your solitude day or to reserve either of the two spaces for your own group or event. Reserve Sunrise Point here; Reserve The Glen here.