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The idea for the retreat came in 1992, an inspiration to Marjie that was slowed by the start-up costs of a new business. As a pastor in the Union Congregational Church in Bryant, she shared her dream with her parish one Sunday. They encouraged her to pursue the dream and loaned her the money to begin. In the summer of 1993, with the church as the sponsoring agent, Ray and Marjie began "Prairie Retreat". The non-profit organization is run through the church as an extended ministry. When help is needed for extra food, quilts, or work on the farm, Marjie says her parish is quick to respond. "A pastor couldn't find more wonderful people." In turn, the money earned at Prairie Retreat helps keep the church going. The ground floor of the barn hosts the bunkhouse, the first venture of the retreat. It holds six beds, topped with handmade quilts, sewn and tied by the ladies at the church. A dining table that has a view across the Canada goose pen, the duck pond and the orchard, and a handicapped accessible bathroom complete the space. The room was constructed from lumber retrieved as the Brewtons tore down a house and 3 barns. |
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Prairie House |
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The spirit of the church remains intact and soars across the
prairie through its new windows. The mellow wooden floor that was
hidden under the altar area, once tread upon by a multitude of
worshippers, now provides a solid base for the added kitchen and
bathrooms. The old sanctuary walls still sing in the new meeting
room and the original entryway with its lovely stained glass window
has become a small chapel. The embossed metal, obviously left over
from the once tinned walls and found resting in the bell tower, now
is framed on a wall of the meeting room. The old balcony and the new
balcony created by the kitchen and bathrooms have become loft
sleeping and study areas.
The Old Church in its new setting is nestled in tall trees and
surrounded by flowerbeds, a meadow and orchard. The sounds of the
ducks, chickens, geese and wild birds have formed the new "choir"
for the Old Church. The building is now surrounded by a large deck
and ramp making it accessible to all. |
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"There is an atmosphere here that is peaceful," says Marjie. "It affects the people who come here." We continue to believe that God has great plans for this building and know that with time and effort, there will be more revealed to us. "If you would like to contribute in any way with work days or financial assistance, we would welcome you to join us in this exciting adventure of faith." |
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