Montreat Conference Center is pleased to bring you our monthly newsletter September in Montreat. Please find updates from our president, highlights on programmatic offerings, and ways that you can engage with Montreat below. Specifically, in this issue we are talking about the joy of summer in Montreat, our new fall edition of Discovering Renewal, and how to enjoy hiking in Montreat this fall.

Celebrating a "Normal" Summer

by Richard DuBose, president of Montreat Conference Center

So often, updates this calendar year have included reports on money in the wake of last year’s hurricane, both in the necessary reports of loss and in the almost immeasurable response by Montreaters, and the recovery both to operations and to our campus. In contrast, I offer this message of celebration to call attention to the completion of a summer in Montreat marked by ministry, joy, and, well, normalcy!

Enrollment for our youth conferences exceeded expectations, drawing young people into experiences of faith and community. Our partner groups, the Presbyterian Association of Musicians and Passport Kids, both gathered in Montreat to robust attendance, while our middle school conference in Maryville, Tennessee, also met its 2025 goals.

Meanwhile, community life flourished. Clubs and recreation, craft center activities, weekly barn dances, evening lectures, and countless other gatherings reminded us of the richness of our life together. Like so many summers before, the weeks passed quickly, a sure sign of a full and vibrant season.

Much of what took place in Montreat this summer was made possible by a spirit of service, and that same spirit carried forward through the summer to the present. Each day, I observe continued acts of kindness and support, evidence that the power of the Holy Spirit is at work in ways large and small that raise the threshold of our recovery and our hopes for what is possible in the years ahead.

We look forward to sharing more information at the end of the month, timed with the one-year anniversary of Hurricane Helene. Until then, remember that Montreat is stronger because of you!

Richard DuBose, President of Montreat Conference Center

PROGRAMS & EVENTS

Youth and young adult events will be taking over Montreat’s social media and email newsletters during the month of October. During this period, we will share information about conference themes, stage leadership, ways that you can get involved, and more! You can explore all of our youth and young adult events now by visiting our website.

A new, fall edition of Discovering Renewal is coming to Montreat very soon! In addition to favorite activity tracks, like yoga, hiking, and fly fishing, this version of the event will also feature a new visual diary track and a resiliency track, led by Presbyterian Disaster Assistance. If you have been shepherding a congregation in the wake of Hurricane Helene, then this may be your sign to take some time for personal rest and renewal. Registration is open.

Did you know? In addition to programmed conferences and events, Montreat Conference Center also hosts guest groups for church retreats, board meetings, celebrations, and more! We have a variety of meetings spaces and housing options to choose from, accommodating groups of all sizes. Visit our website to learn more or explore availability.

We share updates related to offerings for youth & young adults, adult conferences, and retreats in a series of topical email newsletters each month. Sign up to receive one, two, or all three directly in your inbox by clicking here.

EXPERIENCE MONTREAT

Weather reports are indicating that we should be seeing plenty of color this fall! If you plan to take in the autumn leaves while hiking in Montreat, we encourage you to first visit our website to check for trail updates. Certain sections of Graybeard Trail remain closed and while other sections are accessible via detours, they still remain less stable. Please hike with caution and adhere to all posted closures. For more information, click here.

Have you completed the “who is the MRA” survey? One of the goals from our new strategic plan is to determine how well people know Montreat so that we can better articulate who we are. Your feedback will help give us an idea of where to start! Plus, if you live locally, you can visit The Montreat Store to pick up a limited edition sticker as a thank you for participating. Complete the survey here.

Many Montreaters will agree, there is no better place to engage with your faith than in these mountains. If you are seeking the time and space to grow in understanding, our Fall Sabbath Getaways present the perfect opportunity to engage with scripture, the world around us, and the will of the spirit. Sabbath stays in Assembly Inn can be reserved through November 16. Visit our website to book your stay or learn more.

We share updates for locals, news about the Montreat Wilderness, and information pertaining to spiritual exploration in three email newsletters specific to each topic. Select which ones you would like to receive in your inbox by clicking here.

Your Impact on Autumn Recreation

Crunchy leaves, fall foliage and cooler weather are right around the corner! Taking time to visit Robert Lake Park or hike one of Montreat’s trails is undoubtedly on your fall to-do list. Not only can you experience these unique Montreat memories, you can have an impact on them. Gifts to the Montreat Fund support recreation and wilderness here in the valley!

MAKE A GIFT

Make a Visit to Montreat!

From preschool-aged children to older adults, at Montreat we are committed to offering life-giving, transformative experiences for all. Make a plan a visit to the mountains by checking out our upcoming event calendar and witness God’s transforming power for yourself!

VIEW ALL UPCOMING EVENTS

Montreat Conference Center, a ministry of the Mountain Retreat Association, is a national conference center located in Western North Carolina with roots in the PC(USA). Learn more at www.montreat.org.