The story is told of an indigenous guide who was leading a missionary through the jungle. They had been traveling on foot over rough terrain for several days. Suddenly, the guide stopped and sat down. The missionary protested. They had many miles to go before reaching their destination, but the guide refused to go any further. When questioned as to why, he simply said, “I am waiting for my soul to catch up with my body.”

If you are living anywhere in the industrialized world in the early 21st century, chances are you are too busy and seldom get the rest you need. Chances are your soul needs to catch up with your body. The Sabbath House is a place where this reunion can happen.

The wisdom of Sabbath-keeping is ancient. It comes to us through the sacred writings and teachings of many religious traditions, most particularly that of Judaism. Jesus continued this practice by inviting his followers to “Come away to a quiet place all by yourselves and rest for a while.” Sabbath is a great gift to humanity from the Creator. It was made for us, not we for it. But like all gifts, it must be received.

The Sabbath House is located high atop a secluded mountain in Bryson City, N.C.—a peaceful place overlooking the Great Smoky Mountains.  Our mission is to provide a place where people may experience Sabbath. The Sabbath House is a place where you can welcome and receive the gift of Sabbath rest. Here you can learn about practices of Sabbath-keeping that can sustain you and give you refreshment in your day-to-day life when you go down from the mountain. Here you can spend time alone in solitude and in meaningful conversation with others who are learning to claim the gift of sacred rest.

Co-directors, Jim Strickland and Rachel Lackey, are both ordained clergy with experience in pastoral care and counseling. Between them they possess more than 60 years experience in parish ministry. The Sabbath House targets clergy and others in care-giving professions who must expend significant emotional energy to carry out their vocations. Yet The Sabbath House welcomes all who want and need to practice Sabbath-keeping. Retreatants may set their own agenda, or Jim and Rachel are available to lead customized retreat experiences around the Enneagram, strategic planning and other topics. Sabbath-keeping is always on the “agenda,” however, and everyone is encouraged to spend lots of time sitting in a rocking chair overlooking the mountains and listening to the beautiful sounds of nature.

For more information about accommodations and rates, please visit our Web site at www.sabbathhouse.com or call (828) 488-0600.