Prayer & Fasting Retreat

A Time to Draw Near to God

November 13–15, 2026 | Greeley, Pennsylvania
Friday Arrival: 3:00 p.m. | Sunday Departure: 11:00 a.m.

Step Away. Become Still. Draw Near to God.

Sometimes the deepest renewal begins by making room for God.

Join the Christian Meditation Center for a sacred weekend devoted to prayer, fasting, Scripture, Christian meditation, rest, and attentiveness to God’s presence.

Led by Teresa Yerkes, author, spiritual director, retreat leader, and founder of the Christian Meditation Center, this retreat is designed to guide you into a meaningful experience of renewal and deeper connection with God.

For one weekend, we will step away from the noise, responsibilities, and distractions of everyday life and intentionally turn our attention toward God. Through fasting and contemplative spiritual practices, we will create space to listen, surrender, pray, and simply rest in His presence.

Whether you are seeking spiritual renewal, greater clarity, a deeper prayer life, or simply longing for uninterrupted time with God, you are invited to come away and receive.

“Draw near to God, and he will draw near to you.”
— James 4:8

A 36-Hour Prayer & Fasting Experience

Our 36-hour fast will begin on Friday at 8:00 p.m. and conclude together with a light breakfast on Sunday at 8:00 a.m.

Fasting is not an achievement or a test of endurance. It is an ancient spiritual practice that can help us simplify our lives for a time and redirect our attention toward God.

As we temporarily step away from solid food, we will intentionally fill that space with prayer, Scripture, Christian meditation, reflection, and rest.

Retreat Schedule

Friday, November 13 – Sunday, November 15, 2026

Arrival: Friday beginning at 3:00 p.m.
Fast Begins: Friday at 8:00 p.m.
Fast Concludes: Sunday at 8:00 a.m. with a light breakfast
Departure: Sunday by 11:00 a.m.

Throughout the fast:

• Guidance will be provided on how to prepare for, begin, and maintain the fast.
• Water, juice, coffee, and tea will be available.
• A medical professional will be present to provide support and assistance.
• Participants will be encouraged to listen to their bodies and approach the fast prayerfully and wisely.

“Return to me with all your heart, with fasting and weeping and mourning.”
— Joel 2:12

Retreat Highlights

Prayer & Christian Meditation

Experience guided times of prayer and Christian meditation designed to help quiet the mind, open the heart, and become more attentive to God’s presence.

There will be opportunities for both individual and communal prayer, allowing time to speak to God as well as simply rest and listen in His presence.

Stillness & Silence

Periods of silence will be woven throughout the weekend, providing an opportunity to step away from conversation, technology, responsibilities, and the constant stimulation of everyday life.

Silence gives us room to listen—to God, to our hearts, and to what the Holy Spirit may be revealing.

Scripture & Spiritual Reflection

We will spend time with Scripture and spiritual teaching centered on our retreat theme, A Time to Draw Near to God.

Participants will also have time for personal reflection and journaling as they consider what God may be inviting them to receive, release, or embrace.

Prayer for Others & Our World

Part of our time together will be devoted to intercessory prayer—holding before God the needs of others and praying for peace in our world, our communities, our families, and our own hearts.

Rest & Time in Nature

This retreat is intentionally spacious.

There will be time to rest, walk the property, sit beside the stream, journal, pray, or simply enjoy the beauty and stillness of God’s creation.

Fellowship

Although silence and solitude are important parts of the retreat, so is community.

You will share this experience with others who also desire to deepen their relationship with God. There will be opportunities for meaningful fellowship, conversation, and encouragement throughout the weekend.

Light Nourishment

Refreshments will be available on Friday before the fast begins at 8:00 p.m.

During the 36-hour fasting period, participants may drink:

Water • Juice • Coffee • Tea

On Sunday morning at 8:00 a.m., we will conclude the fast together with a light, nourishing breakfast.

Your Health & Safety

We want fasting to be approached with wisdom and care.

A medical professional will be present during the retreat to provide support and encouragement throughout the fasting experience.

Because fasting may not be appropriate for everyone, participants with medical conditions, those taking medications, or anyone with concerns about fasting should consult their healthcare provider before participating.

If a complete fast from solid food is not appropriate for you, please contact us. Modifications can be discussed so that you can still participate meaningfully in the prayer and spiritual practices of the retreat.

Meet Your Retreat Leaders

Teresa Yerkes

Spiritual Director, Author & Founder of the Christian Meditation Center

Teresa will guide you into God’s presence through prayer, Scripture, Christian meditation, stillness, and silence.

These practices invite us to quiet our minds, open our hearts, and rest in the stillness where we can become more attentive to God. As we reflect on the Word, fast from distractions, and practice silence, we create space for the Holy Spirit to bring clarity, healing, renewal, and deep peace.

As founder of the Christian Meditation Center, Teresa’s ministry is centered on helping people deepen their relationship with God and experience the transformative power of resting in His presence.

Jennifer Kurman, PA-C

Physician Assistant

Jennifer will provide medical support, instruction and encouragement throughout the retreat, helping participants approach the fasting experience with appropriate care and attention to their physical well-being.

Her presence allows participants to focus on the spiritual purpose of the weekend while knowing that medical support is available if needed.

Our Retreat Setting

Our retreat will take place on a beautiful 63-acre property in Greeley, Pennsylvania, surrounded by woods and natural beauty.

A peaceful stream flows along the back of the retreat house, creating a wonderful setting for prayer, walking, reflection, and simply being still before God.

The retreat house features eight spacious guest rooms, most with queen-sized beds, along with five bathrooms and a large, comfortable gathering area—perfect for both community connection and quiet reflection.

Throughout the weekend, you will have opportunities to enjoy the property, spend time outdoors, and find your own quiet place to pray and listen.

Traveling by Air?

The closest airport is Wilkes–Barre/Scranton International Airport (AVP/KAVP).

Why Attend?

In the busyness of life, it is easy to lose sight of the sacred.

Sometimes we need more than another teaching, another book, or another item added to our schedule. We need to withdraw for a time and be with God.

A weekend of prayer and fasting gives us an opportunity to interrupt our normal routines and ask:

God, what do You want me to hear?
What am I being invited to release?
Where are You leading me?
How can I draw closer to You?

Through prayer, fasting, Scripture, meditation, silence, and rest, we make room to listen and receive.

Our hope is that you leave the retreat spiritually refreshed, more deeply connected with God, strengthened in your prayer life, and renewed in your faith.

Registration & Pricing

Early Bird Special

Register by October 25, 2026 and Save $50

Single Room — $225

Shared Room for Two — $400

Regular Pricing Beginning October 26

Single Room — $275

Shared Room for Two — $450

Space at the retreat house is limited, particularly for private accommodations, so early registration is encouraged.

Reserve Your Place

Questions?

Teresa Yerkes
tyerkes@christianmeditationcenter.org
856-404-5704

Ready to register and pay?

Registration Form