Mission Hills UCC Men's Retreat

So anyone who has known me for a while might find my involvement in an organized church a little out of character, but I've never been involved with a church quite like Mission Hills UCC. First, it is the most integrated, variety-filled and lively church I have ever attended. The people are friendly and frankly speaking some of my notions about what it means to be a christian have been drastically changed by the congregation. They are inclusive and welcome questions!

Anyway, I found myself on the Men's Retreat yesterday, Saturday. We started the day with a short (3 hour) hike in Torrey Pines (the extension actually). The hike was very enjoyable and informative and provided a good means to become acquanted with my fellow Retreaters.

Torrey Pines

After the hike we had some snacks and then walked the Labyrinth...ahem, right. Okay, I found it relaxing but a little to granola-ey for my tastes. We then had some bible study followed by Phil's BBQ (yum) and a talk with Ron Buford, the creator of the UCC's God is Still Speaking Campaign. We ended the day with a short service. It was quite a day and I actually realized some things about myself I might not have admitted ten years ago...