Experience Reality
Theological Reflection
Spiritual Formation
Practical Engagement
About
Experience Reality Inc. seeks to make space 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) provides a beautiful setting where people can discover the beauty of the gospel. Everyone is welcome!
Host Jeff McSwain and featured guest speakers will encourage Glen 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 readings. We are always mindful of the power of beauty and the compelling aesthetic of our surroundings which prompt us to prayer and meditation. In addition to gatherings, make time to visit the Glen for a personal solitude retreat. 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. Some labored joyfully, others sorrowfully and against their will. Please see our Land Acknowledgement.
Theology
The Glen is 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 a Glen gathering or retreat, they will feel encouraged and renewed in the marvelous love of God, empowered to do good in the world.
