“Great sea-side environment, good leadership team. Prayerful rhythm– good food as well.”-Dr. Don Saliers, Emory’s Candler School of Theology, Atlanta Georgia
“I cannot possibly say enough good things about my experience at the NC Academy. Since my first year in 2009 I have only missed once and that was on Doctor’s orders. I truly believe when God set up our world he meant us to live together as we do during the week of Academy. I arrived not knowing anyone and I would admit fairly broken. I was so loved and accepted, when I left my spirit was soaring. Today I treasure the friendships I gained at the Academy and know in any crisis they are there for me regardless of geographical distance. The teachings were inspiring and of course the love and laughter soul filling. It is the best week of my life every year. I am so grateful for the Academy Team and all they do. I am as always looking forward to this upcoming Academy.” -Deborah Hogan-Thompson, Meaford, Ontario Canada
“There are no adequate words to express the influence and impact that the 5 Day Academy experience has had on my spiritual growth. The design of the 5 day experience is outstanding – a balance of learning and experiential sharing within a trusting environment to explore, to ask, to learn, to connect, to ponder, and most importantly to deepen my relationship with God. I am grateful that I discovered the 5 Day Academy experience and have greatly benefited spiritually by participating in several 5 Day Academies as well as the 31st Two Year Academy – the BEST and most BENEFICIAL commitment of time and money that I have ever experienced.” -Jeanne Seaver, Raleigh,NC
“The experience enabled me to renew my relationship to God and my calling. This time of renewal strengthened me spiritually and today I am a better pastor and spiritual leader in my faith community. Thank you so much for all you did to renew my spiritual life.” -Rev. Sylvia Collins, Maxton, NC
“The five days I spend at the Trinity Center with others of the NC Five Day Academy are a highlight of my year. The peace and quiet, the special presenters, the location and the rhythm are all there to bring you closer to God. Sitting on the porch outside the conference room is my special place. To participate in communion everyday as well as to hear contemplative music just fills my heart as I type this.”-Gayle Hines, Garner, NC
“My experience is not probably what you are expecting . But my first time at the 5 day academy had 2 amazing guest lecturers. Sister Mary Margret Pasden and Glenn Hinson. The theological, intellectual, and spiritual stimulation was transforming. We often speak of the “Heart-felt” feelings and emotional transformations – and they are important – but the re-awakening of my brain was glorious !! What made this so special is that both of those wise, experienced, and highly credible speakers delivered their knowledge with great humor and personal insights. After the Academy, I leaped into various types and styles of Bible studies and felt my brain and my heart expanding.” Lyn Triplett, Raleigh, NC
“The NC 5-day Academy came into my life right after I had suffered the loss of my husband. My first experience was a Winter Soulstice event with Bruce Rigdon. I was stagnant in my spirituality and the Winter Soulstice ignited a little spark which took me to Greece and then to my first Academy in the fall of 2013. It gave me the experience of a week away from all my worries. The rhythm of the day and week fueled that spark. I am a writer and the Academy was just the right way to let me explore my spirituality and express my feelings on it. The participants are so loving, caring, and supportive. I can’t wait until Academy Week this fall.” -Louise O’Quinn, Raleigh, NC