The First Sunday of Advent

November 30, 2015 by Canterbury Filed Under: Featured Post (Front Page), Uncategorized Leave a Comment

We begin for one a familiar journey summarized as a cycle of light. We start in utter darkness…
“And they will look to the earth, but behold, distress and darkness, the gloom of anguish. And they will be thrust into thick darkness. The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light; those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness, on them has light shone.” (Isaiah 8:22; 9:2)

It saddens me to see all the darkness in our nation and world. Pain suffering, violence, hatred, fear, poverty, wars – we can all agree there are elements these days deep distress, darkness, gloom anguish, and it is thick. You may want to give up, cocoon away but that in itself perpetuates a darkness. Do not surrender to this world, rather set for hope on Christ, look to him and discover those things that will nurture faith, hope, love and peace.

Each week we gain a little more light until we come to the bright light of Christmas and the incarnation of Jesus Christ, Lord and Savior. Advent is a season of preparation. Prepare yourself to be surprised in moments of twinkling light. My good friend David Baroni penned these lyrics that fit so well in Advent…

Through the long lonely night, When the darkness hid the light.

You gave me grace to trust, and now I see

Even when it’s hard to believe, Even when our hope seems all gone, There has never been a night Without a dawn

Chorus: Faithful God unfailing love,
Forever You are worthy of our praise
Faithful God unfailing love
We can always trust the wisdom of Your ways
Faithful God Faithful God.

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Amaryllis Sánchez Wohlever, MD, AuthorWalking with Jesus in Healthcare
Canterbury is a holy space ... the perfect place for quiet reflection and prayerful listening to God. Come ready for excellent meals, thoughtful service by a caring staff, and comfortable meeting rooms in a peaceful setting that invites contemplation. I leave refreshed every time, and always long to return.

Canterbury es un sitio sagrado … el lugar perfecto para reflexionar y escuchar a Dios en silencio. Ven y disfruta de la deliciosa comida, el espíritu servicial del personal, y las facilidades placenteras en un ambiente de paz que invita la contemplación. Cada visita refresca el alma y alimenta el espíritu. ¡Por esto, siempre quiero volver!
The Very Reverend G. Richard Lobs IIIRetired Dean of the Cathedral Church of St. Luke's, Orlando
I have enjoyed the Canterbury Conference Center since the 1970's. It has been an ongoing source of blessing to me - not least its peaceful tranquility. Canterbury is reaching new highs with Fr. Jon Davis at the helm. I am enthusiastic about what the Lord is doing through his leadership. Come and enjoy.
Dr. Pete AlwinsonForge
Canterbury Retreat Center is an oasis in the city! Warm, servant-leadership and true commitment to Christ mark all of the staff of Canterbury. Combined with great facilities and natural beauty it is a place where people can rest, listen to God and others, learn, make decisions and grow in faith. You’ll love Canterbury!
Dr. Steve Harper, Professor EmeritusAsbury Theological Seminary, Blogger "Oboedire"
Canterbury is a sacred space to inhale the Spirit and drink the Water of Life. With that refreshment, we can go back into the world to live more authentically and effectively for Christ.
Don Sweeting, Former PresidentReformed Theological Seminary, Orlando
I’m glad Canterbury Retreat Center is located near the campus of Reformed Theological Seminary. We’ve held conferences and retreats there. We’ve been blessed by their hospitality and facilities. And, we can be a part of some of the great events held there during the year.
Suzanne MatteraEvents/CI Coordinator
For the past several years the Canterbury Retreat and Conference Center has been the perfect venue for our annual event. The friendly and helpful staff continuously provides exceptional service while we thoroughly enjoy the cozy environment overlooking the picturesque lake.
The North Jersey Homeschoolers Association
Dear Arnold and Canterbury staff,

Thank you for a wonderful stay at Canterbury! The rooms were clean and comfortable, the grounds beautiful and serene, and your staff so kind and accommodating! We felt like part of the “family.” 😁 Canterbury was a perfect setting for our students to relax and refresh after their busy days. And due to an unexpected schedule change, we even got to spend a beautiful day exploring the lake and trails. Special thanks to the catering staff who adjusted their schedule to meet our needs and served the most delicious, hearty breakfasts. Please thank everyone who had a part in our visit. We love Canterbury!

May God continue to bless this special corner of the world,

All the best!
Beth
Sarah BerryNorthumbria Community USA
You gave us the most amazing gift of hospitality this week. You gave us a beautiful space - and time. You took care of us and fed us (wow), if we lacked for something - you provided it. The rooms were spotless, light and airy - looking out on exotic trees and changing landscape of wind on water, sun and shade and wildlife scurrying about - providing endless entertainment.
Mary Cooper, PresidentEngaging Outcomes, President and Lead Guide
I have had the pleasure of holding several professional training sessions at Canterbury Retreat & Conference Center over the last few years. From the booking process and pre-session communications to the days on-site, I could not ask for a better partner. If you are looking for a unique setting for a meeting or retreat and want a quality experience with more character than a standard hotel conference space, I recommend you use CR&CC.
A.C. LockyerSoftwash Systems, Inc., Founder and President
Canterbury hosted our Softwash-A-Palooza convention and training event and I couldn't be more pleased. The way the staff there took care of us combined with the incredible beauty of the surroundings gave our event a warms and "homey feel" that we could have never gotten at a hotel facility. I would highly recommend Canterbury for a top-notch corporate event experience with that something extra added in.
Neal Watkins, Minister for Faith FormationFlorida Conference, UCC
"I am blown away by the experience that our group had at Canterbury, it was beyond our expectations. The beauty, the hospitality, the professional quality, and the extravagant grace to just be - it was perfect! We are eager to use Canterbury again in the future!"
Dan SneedInternational Bible Teacher and Conference Speaker - Author of The Power of a New Identity
Canterbury Retreat is an amazing place of peace and serenity, coupled with an atmosphere that promotes healing and encourages fresh vision. Strategically located on the edge of one of the world's great tourist destinations, Orlando, Florida, is this beautiful, spiritual oasis. It's in the middle of everything and yet offers a total escape and a place of refreshment. It's an amazing, life-changing place. I can't wait to go again!
Steve Schneeberger, Executive DirectorYouth Ministry Institute
Youth ministers from all over the state gather at Canterbury for monthly training. We love the food, hospitality and the contemplative atmosphere while also being minutes away from big city amenities. When Canterbury is booked and we have to go somewhere else, there's a lot of grumbling.