Opening Gathering
9:00–9:30 | Welcome, Gospel Foundation, Worship, and Settling
| Minutes | Leader movement |
|---|---|
| 5 | Welcome participants and help them settle. |
| 5 | Worship or read John 15:1–5 slowly. |
| 8 | Establish the gospel foundation and explain that a focused invitation will come at the close. |
| 5 | Explain the purpose, safety, and rhythm of the day. |
| 5 | Allow the private arrival reflection in the workbook. |
| 2 | Pray and transition into Movement One. |
Suggested Welcome
“Welcome to Abide. Today is not a test of how spiritual you are, and no previous retreat, book, or church background is required. Some may have walked with Christ for years. Some may be uncertain what they believe. You are welcome to listen, remain quiet, write, or share only what you choose. We will begin with Jesus and let every response remain honest and unforced.”
How to Frame the Day
Say: “Abiding describes an ongoing relationship with Jesus, so we will begin by explaining who He is. Some of you may have followed Christ for years. Some may be uncertain what you believe or may be hearing the gospel clearly for the first time. You are welcome to listen, ask questions, and consider what you hear.”
Continue: “We will not ask you to make a decision before you understand what is being offered. Near the end of the day, there will be unhurried time to respond honestly to Christ.”
Do not lead a decision prayer during the opening. Establish understanding and safety, then let the truth of Christ remain present throughout the day. The focused invitation belongs in the closing response.
Community Agreements
Share from your own life rather than correcting another participant.
Listen without fixing, rescuing, or comparing stories.
Honor confidentiality within the safety limits the leader has explained.
Give people permission to pass.
Make room for both words and silence.
Return every conversation to truth, grace, and Christ.
Arrival Reflection
Ask participants to complete the opening page privately. Invite them to name what they are carrying, what they hope God might meet, and what would help them become present. Do not ask them to share these answers yet.
Opening Prayer
Dear Jesus, quiet what has followed us into this room. We bring You our hurry, weariness, hope, questions, and resistance. We do not want to perform closeness with You. We want to receive Your invitation and tell You the truth. Give us courage to remain. In Jesus’ holy name we pray, amen.