Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation presents:
Living a Contemplative Life in a World That Isn't
When: April 26, 2026 to May 1, 2026
Where: Tuscarora Inn and Conference Center, Mt. Bethel, PA
Sponsored by the Greater New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference
Where: Tuscarora Inn and Conference Center, Mt. Bethel, PA
Sponsored by the Greater New Jersey and Eastern Pennsylvania Annual Conference
Click here to view the recording of our Zoom Information session on September 29th.
Join the Five Day Academy for Spiritual Formation for 5-day retreat focused on how we can live a life connecting with God and with others contemplatively in a world filled with so much noise and activity. The goal of the retreat is to give participants a chance to dig deeper in their own spirituality as they engage in the reality of a world that is whirling at breakneck speed, filled with noise in all directions. The retreat is open to lay and clergy leaders of all denominations. View more info in this post, view flyers in PDF format or in this image, and view FAQs in PDF format or in this post.
Frequently Asked Questions, (FAQs)
What is the Academy for Spiritual Formation?
The Academy for Spiritual Formation is a program developed by The Upper Room in the early 1980’s for the single purpose of helping people grow in their relationship with God. The daily schedule is very balanced between the academic (lectures and discussion) and the formative (silence and worship), hence the name “Academy for Spiritual Formation.” Both “head” and “heart” are engaged during this retreat.
What is “spiritual formation”?
“Spiritual formation” is a process of learning and growing in the spiritual life. For Christians this means becoming more Christ-like in one’s attitude and actions. Spiritual formation is a life-long journey, in which one comes to rely more and more on the Holy Spirit to guide and shape one’s life. Robert Mulholland developed the following definition many have found helpful: “Spiritual formation is the process of being conformed to the image of Christ for the sake of others.” See his book Invitation to a Journey for more on this topic.
What’s the Biblical basis for this ministry?
Acts 2:42 indicates that those baptized “devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayers.” These four actions constitute the basic “practices” of the Academy: teaching, fellowship, worship, and prayer.
Tell me more about the Five Day Academy. Who will attend?
The typical Five Day Academy has about forty participants, clergy and lay. Because this Academy is sponsored by United Methodist Conferences, many will likely be Methodist, but we particularly welcome people from other denominations. Our faculty presenters are Dr. Amy Oden and Dr. Kirk Byron Jones. About half of the participants will likely be new to the Academy; others will have gone to an Academy before.
Why do people come?
Some of those coming may come looking for a place to rest; others may feel drawn by the faculty or the topic or the place. The schedule of the Academy is designed to include both stimulation, engagement, and Sabbath rest. We ask people to leave denominational politics, clergy talk and office business behind, so that they can be fully present to God’s Spirit.
Is this right for me?
If you are looking for something to help you go deeper in your Christian journey, the Academy may be right for you. You do not need to be an expert in the faith, though some familiarity with the Christian faith is assumed. A key is your willingness to grow and to struggle with others to make the faith real for you in your life. This Academy may be especially helpful for people who want to go beyond their comfort zone and grow in their commitment to discipleship as engagement with the world.
What will be expected of me?
We ask you to be as fully present as you can be to the retreat, to come to the well of God’s living water and drink! You will not be asked to assume a major leadership role during the week. Dress is casual; this is your place to reflect, engage, learn, and grow!
What’s worship like?
Worship provides the framework for the Academy, with Morning Prayer before breakfast, Midday Prayer before lunch, Word and Table (Holy Communion) and Night Prayer. Written liturgies in The Upper Room Worshipbook are generally used for Academy worship.
Are there small groups?
Every evening you will meet in a Covenant Group to reflect on the day and to share spiritual journeys. A convener is assigned to help your group begin and end on time and create a safe space for listening to one another and to God. As the week goes on, the covenant group can be a sacred place for spiritual growth and intimacy.
I’ve heard that the schedule includes silence. Why is that?
The schedule includes an hour of silence after each faculty lecture so that you may reflect on what has been said at your own pace. Between Night Prayer and Morning Prayer, we participate in the Great Silence to listen to God through the night and to open our ears to the morning song. Silence is so important it’s sometimes called “the Church’s forgotten Teacher.” One of the greatest Christian poets of the twentieth century, T.S. Elliot once asked, “Is there enough silence for the Word to be heard?” Too often the answer is no. Becoming physically quiet is the first step, but we also need to begin to turn off the noise in our heads that keeps us from truly listening.
What does it cost?
The fees schedule is as follows:
* A $200 non-refundable deposit is due upon registration.
* Early Registration Cost
- Single Occupancy - $975
- Double Occupancy - $875
* Last day for early registration: October 15, 2025
* Regular Registration Cost
- Single Occupancy - $1,075
- Double Occupancy - $975
* A second payment of half of your remaining cost will be due January 5, 2026.
* A third payment of your remaining balance will be due March 15, 2026.
* No refunds will be made after January 5, 2026.
Fees include five nights of single or double occupancy accommodations in a hotel room style setting with en suite bath, plus all meals, and Academy tuition.
Every effort is made to make it possible for people to attend, regardless of their ability to pay. Clergy may apply for continuing education funds through their Annual Conference or their local church. Laity can inquire with your local church or judicatory to see if any scholarship assistance might be offered.
Can I commute to this event?
No. We begin our journey early in the morning and end in the evening. Full-time participation onsite is required to follow this full schedule and to encourage conversation within our community. Sharing worship, meals, silence, and time is key to learning what discipleship means. (See Dietrich Bonhoeffer’s Life Together.)
What other details should I know?
MEALS: The meals at Tuscarora Inn & Conference Center are excellent. The staff is very accommodating for people with dietary restrictions. Most people are pleasantly surprised by how tasty and inviting the dining experience is.
DRESS: You’re on retreat, so dress casually. We will need to walk across the campus for meals, so bring appropriate footwear. Note that the temperature in late April can be unpredictable so please pack accordingly.
ACCESSIBILITY: It is our aim to help anyone participate who desires to, regardless of ability. IF you have particular questions or requests for accommodations, please contact one of the retreat leaders.
CONTINUING EDUCATION UNITS (CEUs) - Three CEUs are available in the spring. A form will be provided to request them.
Who can I ask if I have other questions?
The Leadership Team consists of volunteer lay and clergy leaders who are here to assist you. Check with them for information about faculty recommended books, retreat center accommodations and cuisine, registration and check-in time. The team for 2026 includes:
* Deb De Vos, [email protected], Co-Retreat Leader
* Jenny Smith Walz, [email protected], Co-Retreat Leader
* Jerri Carlin, [email protected], Accompanist
* Connie Hoeke, [email protected], Covenant Group Coordinator
* Peter Jamieson, [email protected], Worship Coordinator
* Iraida Ruiz de Porras, [email protected], Hospitality Coordinator