Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
November 2nd – November 4th, 2017
Come discover the picturesque village of Carmel-by-the-Sea with its scenic bluff paths on California’s idyllic Monterey Peninsula. Founded in 1902, Carmel has plenty of historic sites to explore.
The village is one square mile, which puts the beach, restaurants, galleries and shops galore within walking distance. So many options and so little time, this year’s Oral Bible Story Women’s Retreat is packed with 4 out of the top 5 things to do in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Between Bible stories and ‘sightseeing’, we have a weekend planned that will nourish your senses and your soul. I know God has something special in store for each of us!
This uniquely different retreat experience is designed with stories in mind: stories from God’s Word and your unique story. We want to get to know you and for you to get to know us. For that reason we are limiting the retreat to 12 women. Throughout the weekend, we will engage with stories from the Bible about women and their interaction with Jesus. It’s amazing the tremendous value Jesus placed on women. I’m sure we will all leave Carmel-by-the-Sea with the ability to encourage others the way Jesus did, using the ageless tradition of sharing stories.
Sights & Sounds
Day 1 // Thursday, November 2nd
10 AM – 2 PM
Arrive at the Monterey Peninsula Airport (MPA) or at the San Jose International Airport (SJC), and we will pick you up. The Carmel Country Inn Bed & Breakfast will be our home for this 3-day, 2-night Oral Bible Story Retreat. While everyone is arriving we will enjoy afternoon refreshments and get acquainted.
4 PM
We’ll take our first stroll down the Scenic Road Walkway on our way to the beautiful Carmel City Beach to feel the sand between our toes and watch the sun setting.
7 PM
We will do some window shopping as we make our way to dinner at La Bicyclette. Because of its charm, this European Bistro is a favorite of the locals and touristS alike. It has a wide range of choices and I’m told, ‘the food is fantastic’.
The bistro is only a few blocks from the B&B, we will make it in time to have our first bedtime Bible story group. We will hear, learn, and discuss a story about a woman from Jesus’ day.
Day 2 // Friday, November 3rd
8 AM Breakfast Buffet and Bible Story
In the cozy country kitchen or on the B&B’s flower laden patio, we will enjoy a breakfast featuring an array of savories and sweets, hot and cold breakfast choices. When breakfast is over, grab a refill on your coffee or tea and circle up for our morning story group!
10 AM Carmel Mission
Mission San Carlos Borromeo de Carmelo is California’s first mission and our first stop of the day. We will learn about the missional work among the Indians long before California became a state.
Noon – 3:30 PM (free time) Ocean Avenue
Explore Ocean Avenue and other local favorites. Go for lunch, shop, enjoy the galleries or do whatever you like. I’m sure the time will go by quickly. With 77 bakeries, cafes or coffee houses open for lunch and almost 100 art galleries, time is not our friend in this regard!
4 PM Point Lobos State Reserve
Hiking along the trails and stopping to take in ocean views of some of the most magnificent landscapes is the way to experience the California coast. With breathtaking sights and the relaxing sounds of the ocean awaiting us, we are sure to enjoy what some say is probably the most beautiful seacoast in the world. Bring your camera and binoculars if you have them. Lobos is known for its natural beauty and its abundant wildlife, like seals and sea lions. Be sure to bring comfortable shoes!
8 PM Dinner at Forge in the Forest
The Forge in the Forest offers an extensive menu of American cuisine and is a historic Carmel landmark which has been voted “Best Outdoor Dining” every year since 1992! The Forge’s award winning garden patios are nestled among the oak and pine trees of downtown Carmel. We hear the skillet baked chocolate chip cookies at the Forge in the Forest are yummy, so save room.
8:30 PM Dessert and Coffee
After dinner, we will head back to the B&B for another bedtime story session.
Day 3 // Saturday, November 4th
8:30 AM
Breakfast and departing story, group discussion and time of sharing.
11 AM
Farewells and departure
WE HOPE THIS WEEKEND IN CARMEL WILL BE PART OF YOUR STORY!
Accommodations and all planned activities for the weekend
are compliments of StoryRunners.
Please make your own travel arrangements to and from
Monterey Peninsula Airport or San Jose International Airport.
Q & A
Who should attend this retreat?
This event is tailored specifically for women who are partners with StoryRunners or who want to get a closer look at our ministry as a potential ministry to support in the future.
What is the purpose of this retreat?
The purpose of this retreat for us to get to know our partners better, and for you to get to know StoryRunners and its team members better. We believe that a couple of days in each other’s company and in God’s Word through Bible stories will allow us to really get to know one another and experience how God uses stories to change lives.
What is the cost of this retreat?
This retreat is “our treat” and is at no cost to the ladies who love and support StoryRunners, as well as those who would like to know us better. You will only be responsible for your transportation to and from Carmel-by-the-Sea, whether you choose to fly in or drive to this wonderful destination. The itinerary is designed to have our meals together and finishing up with a story group, with the exception of a lunch on the run while out shopping if you choose to grab something on the way. In other words, be our guest!
What is a story group?
A story group is a small group bible study where group members hear and discuss a story from the Bible. Each member learns the story so they can share it with others. The learning and application time is driven by group discussion, and the leader needs only to guide the discussion by asking questions. The beauty of the story group is its simplicity.
When should I arrive?
Please plan to arrive between 10 AM and 2 PM. Check in begins at 3:00 PM. The retreat will kick off Thursday afternoon with a Welcome Reception at 4 PM followed by a stroll down Scenic Road Walkway. Please plan to arrive in time to be transported from the airport if you are flying in.
Will I need transportation once I arrive in Carmel-by-the-Sea?
Airport ground transportation will be provided for those flying into Monterey Peninsula Airport (MPA) or at the San Jose International Airport (SJC). One of the hosts will pick you up from the airport. Carmel-by-the-Sea is a historic walking village, minimal transportation is needed.
Why should I take time out of my busy schedule to attend this retreat?
We have a great agenda planned especially with you in mind (see above itinerary). From time to time we all need to retreat from the hustle and bustle of our complicated lives and connect with God and like-minded people. You may even forge some new friendships that will enhance your Christian journey, but ultimately you will learn to experience God’s Word in a way that will certainly enhance your walk with Him.
Who should I call if I have questions?
If you have questions or would like to register in person, please contact Pam Lilly at 281-703-4777.