Listening to the Silence: March 14, 2026
Silence is not an absence. It is a presence.
In a world that constantly asks you to hurry, explain, and respond, Listening to the Silence offers something rare: space to slow down and simply be. This is an invitation to step away from noise and return to what steadies you…calm, clarity, and God’s unwavering love.
Why Silence – Why Now?
Many people are tired, not just physically, but inwardly. Life moves faster than the soul can absorb, leaving little room to breathe or listen. Silence gently interrupts the urgency and creates space to be held by God’s steady presence. What we often search for through effort, reveals itself in stillness. Through intentional silence, gentle guidance, and quiet exploration, participants are invited to rest deeply and listen more fully. Silence becomes the gift that quiets the mind, softens the heart, and opens the door to transformation.
Join your spiritual guide Rita Ricks for a sacred day of journaling, silence, and reflection at Richmond Hill. Leave your phone behind. Bring your journal and your Bible. Prepare to reconnect with your Creator as you wander quiet gardens and hidden retreats created for stillness and listening.
- Arrival at 8:45 a.m.
- Program runs 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
- Lunch and chapel included
- A Silence Tag is provided to support uninterrupted reflection
- Lunch is shared in silence, honoring the depth of the experience
The day begins and ends in intimate dialogue. Participants share insights and discoveries with one another, guided by Rita’s steady presence.
Rita Ricks is a Spiritual Transformation Expert and longtime advocate of intentional silence. She discovered the life-changing power of silence during her time at Richmond Hill while attending RUAH (2009–2011). Her guiding truth remains simple and steady: “The solution is in the Silence.” Learn more at www.ritaricks.com.
Rita is joined by her colleague Angela Lightfoot, a spiritual mental health and wellness coach who co-facilitates this experience at Richmond Hill. Angela also also facilitates Listening to the Silence virtually on the 2nd Tuesday of every month.
Be still and know.
Suggested donation $55 which includes lunch. There are also reduced rate and pay-it-forward registration options.
For further information, please contact Rev. Sheryl Johnson (sjohnson@richmondhillva.org, 804-783-7903).
This retreat will also be offered: May 9 • July 11 • September 12 • November 14, 2026. Watch our newsletter and website for registration details.