DETOX ENCOUNTER
Silence. Stillness. Renewal.
Fasting & Silence
In a world filled with constant noise, hurry, and digital distraction, the soul longs for quiet. The Detox (Fasting & Silence) Encounter is an invitation to step away — to release the noise, reset your rhythms, and rediscover your true center.
When
December 5-7, 2025
Friday - Sunday
Where
Rivendell Retreat Centre
Bowen Island, BC Canada
Cost
$175 $125 per person
On Sale until November 1st.
A Sacred Pause
This is not a diet or a quick fix. It’s a deep cleanse for your mind, body, and spirit. Through guided silence, gentle fasting, and simple practices of rest and reflection, you’ll create space for peace to surface and for your inner life to breathe again.
Why Silence?
Silence isn’t emptiness — it’s presence. In the stillness, clarity returns. You’ll begin to hear again: your own heart, the whispers of creation, and the quiet voice of God that often gets drowned out by the world’s demands.
Why Fasting?
Fasting helps us detach — not just from food, but from the things we use to fill the emptiness.
By simplifying what we consume, we make room for what truly nourishes: peace, gratitude, and the awareness of God's love.
The Outcome
Leave lighter. Quieter. More awake to what matters most. This is a retreat for those who are tired of the noise — and ready to live from a place of grounded peace. Prepared for the rest of December and for the new year to come.
What to Expect…
Opening session with teaching and reflection on the practices of silence and fasting.
Daily times of stillness, prayer, and personal reflection.
Light, intentional fasting supported by fresh, nourishing juices and teas.
Opportunities for journaling, contemplative prayer, and unhurried time in nature.
Guided walks through spectacular island landscapes and use of prayer labyrinth.
Access to quiet, reflective spaces including a library, music room, and fireplace lounge.
Optional arts and crafts for creative expression and rest.
Silent swim and outdoor moments for renewal in creation.
Breaking bread together for reflection, integration, and shared insight.
Restful, welcoming accommodations in The Lodge on Cates Hill at Rivendell Retreat Centre, surrounded by breathtaking views and tranquil forest.
Meet Your Guides
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Danielle Strickland
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Aaron White
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Lila Weber
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Ruth Gillingham
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Tara Ayer
FAQs
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The Fasting & Silence Encounter is a guided experience of renewal — a time to step away from noise and hurry to reconnect with God through stillness, prayer, and intentional fasting. The encounter combines teaching, reflection, and embodied spiritual practices led by experienced guides.
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No experience is required. Our guides will gently introduce these practices and support you throughout the weekend. You’ll receive teaching, guidance, and space to move at your own pace.
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This retreat invites participants into a light and supported fast — a rhythm of simplicity rather than restriction. Nourishing juices and teas will be provided throughout the weekend. How you participate in the fast is completely up to you. If you have dietary limitations or need to incorporate light snacks, you are welcome to bring your own and keep them in your room. Our goal is to support both your physical wellbeing and your spiritual journey.
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The retreat includes an extended period of silence for prayer, rest, and reflection from Friday evening following our opening session, until Sunday morning. There will also be times for guided teaching and shared conversation/debrief.
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Accommodations are provided at The Lodge on Cates Hill at Rivendell Retreat Centre on Bowen Island, BC. Each participant will have their own bed in a peaceful, thoughtfully prepared room. Some rooms are shared, while others are private, and all have access to common spaces, forest views, and contemplative areas.
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Yes. There are two accessible rooms with walk-in showers on the second floor, and a Garaventa lift provides access from the main floor. Please indicate any accessibility needs on your registration form so we can ensure a comfortable stay.
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We invite you to consider leaving technology behind, or while you are on retreat at Rivendell, removing yourself from its demands for a period of time. If it is necessary for you to use your cell phone, please do so outside well away from the building.
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We recommend bringing a journal, Bible, comfortable (and weather appropriate) clothing for walks and prayer, and any personal items you need for rest and reflection. You may also wish to bring art materials or a musical instrument for personal expression.
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Bowen Island is accessible by ferry from Horseshoe Bay in West Vancouver. Transportation instructions and arrival details will be provided upon registration.
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On Sunday morning, we’ll gently transition out of silence and fasting by sharing a guided meal together. This will be a sacred time of community, reflection, and gratitude — a chance to integrate what has been experienced and to speak from a place of renewed awareness. The weekend concludes with a communal debrief before departure.
