JHYM Home | JHYM Scheduled Retreats | Maps and Directions | Mailing List | Health Form | Contact Gretchen
HOMEWORK for the JHYM Music Retreat
Each of you – junior highers and staffers – is asked to bring one selection of music – either recorded or to be performed “live” – to share in your small group. In addition to playing it for the group, you will have the chance to talk about why it’s ‘soul music’ for you – music that speaks to your heart and soul about that of God, Spirit, Light, Peace or Beauty. It may be a piece of music that gives you grace, courage, and inspiration to be faithful in hard times. Or, it may help you to re-center and be present to that of God in the midst of a busy and/or stressful day. The music may be any genre – rock, country, folk, gospel, hymn, punk, whatever. Try to pick something that is not more than 5 minutes in length.
Though most people bring a piece of recorded music to play, we do usually have 2 or 3 people who “perform” their soul music for their small group. If you feel led to do this, and will need to use the keyboard at Woolman Hill, let me know so that I can be prepared for you.
In previous years at JHYM Music Retreats, we’ve found that in listening to each other’s ‘soul music’ we’ve been able to learn loads about each other’s spiritual journeys and selves. We’ve heard a lot of “stuff” that we often say, “Oh, I just can’t put that into words.” Be brave, be thoughtful, be joyous, and choose something that lets us hear from you. (You can find previous years’ playlists on our website.)
DO KNOW that it is very important that you do this. If you have any questions or worries about it, talk or write to me! Remember that JHYM Retreats is one of the kindest, safest communities on earth – and that is why this retreat works so well. Be yourself, bring your piece of soul music, and know that you and it will be heard and loved!
Gretchen