The Center for Creative Renewal has become a spiritual haven for many diverse religious communities. We have supported the spiritual replenishment of teams of clergy, youth group leaders and religious practioners of many faiths over the past 30 years.
Buddhist, Unitarian, Jewish and Christian communities are among many of the groups who have chosen this setting to hold mindfulness retreats and annual gatherings. Dwelling in nature, with the silence and serenity found here, has provided a much-needed balm. The cathedral of the trees, the choir of the birds, the privacy of the alcoves, the spiritual journey into the labyrinth, all support communion with what is holy.
If desired, we can provide professionally catered meals customized to individual dietary needs.
Three Treasures Zen Community - 2003
Temple Solel Teacherʼs retreat - 2005
Seaside Church For Spiritual Living - Religious Practioners retreats - 2007, 2008, 2009
Jewish Healing Center - 2007, 2009
Center for Jewish Culture - 2010
First Unitarian Universalist Church graduating class - 2015
“I highly recommend the California Center for Creative Renewal for group and individual meditation. We held a one day meditation retreat several years ago at the Center. I found the solitude and tranquility of the gardens, the fresh coastal air, and Ellen's warmth and caring for our needs helped create a deep and refreshing experience for all the participants. There is something special about the beauty of the gardens and connecting with nature in this wonderful space!”
Jikyo McMahon Roshi
Three Treasures Zen Community“I have held two retreats at The Center for Creative Renewal and both were great experiences. The first was ... such a great energy that it was a perfect environment for people to experience deepening into presence. The second retreat was even more special as Center director joined me in facilitating. I found Ellen to be a masterful facilitator, seamlessly weaving ways in which participants could become ever more present through becoming one with the art they were creating throughout the day. I highly recommend both Ellen Speert and The Center for Creative Renewal for your next retreat.”
Bodhi Jeffreys
Embodied Awakening In Everyday Life