A Joyful Tale of Leave-taking and Letting Go

At the invitation of organizers of the Episcopalian Tri-Diocesan Fall Camp, Marietta travels to beautiful Shrine Mont, nestled in the Shenandoah Valley at the foot of Great North Mountain. She promises participants what she promises readers in the introduction to Leaving 1203: “I wish for them the welcoming voices calling them, too, back home again, a renewed sense of belonging, and reassurance that leave-takings and losses come with unexpected rewards as well.” This annual four-day retreat pulls attendees back every year with its offerings of renewal, rest, and recreation—key ingredients in Marietta’s book. Silence and solitude proved invaluable to her in “knowing” how to empty 1203. Further, the serenity that comes from”stillness” gave her the creative spark for writing the book. Signed copies of Leaving 1203 will be available for purchase throughout the retreat, and Marietta will gladly personalize books and chat after her talk. Perhaps lingering for a bit longer….