Remain in Me
A Sacred Invitation to Abide
“Remain in me.”
These words from Jesus in John 15 echo quietly and persistently in my heart. There is a tenderness in His invitation. Not a demand to produce more or become more, but a loving call to stay close, to live connected, to draw life from Him as branches draw life from the vine.
Recently, retreat guide Rachael Wade reflected on why Jesus might repeat this invitation so often. Perhaps He knows how easily we forget. Rachael said, “Perhaps He knows how quickly our lives fill with responsibility, striving, and the subtle pull to root ourselves in things that cannot truly sustain us. Yet in His deep grace and compassion, He continues to call us back—again and again—into abiding love.”
This is the heart behind The Art of Vinemaking Journey.
This journey offers sacred space to step away from the noise and hurry that often shape our days and return to our first love. In Sonoma, California, and Traverse City, Michigan, participants are invited into the living metaphor of the vineyard—places where the rhythms of tending, pruning, resting, and bearing fruit gently mirror the movements of the spiritual life.
Together, we will slow down. We will breathe deeply. We will listen for God’s voice. We will practice rhythms that help us remember how to remain in Christ, not only during retreat, but in the ordinary, sacred moments of everyday life. The retreat experience then continues through a six-month guided journey rooted in beautiful and prayerful teachings, allowing this work to deepen and take root in lasting ways.
If something in your spirit feels stirred or gently curious, we invite you to prayerfully consider taking a next step:
Join us for the Art of Vinemaking informational session
Wednesday, February 4 at 11:00 AM CT
This is a space to learn more, ask questions, and discern if this journey may be where God is inviting you in this season. If interested, join us at this link.
—or—
Apply to join one of our upcoming journeys
• Sonoma, California – May 18-21, 2026
• Traverse City, Michigan – October 9-12, 2026
There is no pressure, only invitation. We trust that God meets each of us uniquely as we listen and respond to His gentle call.
May you sense His nearness today. May you find rest in His presence. And may you know the quiet joy of remaining in the One who lovingly holds you.