53 Mill Street, Westfield, MA, USA
February 20 - 22, 2026
About this Retreat
Rev. Simon Ruth de Voil is an ordained interfaith/interspiritual minister, trained to be a sacred presence outside the conventions of traditional religion. As a sacred musician, spiritual mentor and worship leader he incorporates chant, ritual, storytelling and mindful practice to create a space for profound connection and sacred witness. Simon provides music for worship, ceremony, and prayer in a wide variety of churches and non-religious spiritual communities. He particularly loves to create music for meditation, healing services, and rites of passage.
Simon is also an experienced workshop and retreat leader, drawing on 15 years of study, training, and practice that grew from his time living and working in Iona Abbey. Although influenced by many traditions, Simon's spiritual path and teaching is deeply rooted in Celtic Christianity, the wisdom of the earth, and in the Scottish land where he's spent most of his life.
Rev. David Wallace recently retired as a dean and senior teacher for One Spirit Interfaith Seminary in New York City, and is a faculty member of the spiritual direction program at the Rowe Center and an active officiant and spiritual director. He is a graduate of St. John’s College in Santa Fe, NM, and has continued those studies as a lifelong student of the “great books” of philosophy and archetypal psychology. Rev. Wallace offers teaching and retreats at spiritual venues worldwide, and specializes in poetics, contemplative practice, and the wisdom texts of both the Eastern and Western traditions.
Prior to his work in interspiritual ministry and teaching, David had an extensive career in publishing and marketing, as well as award-winning work through the Soho galleries he created in New York City, The Enchanted Forest and After the Rain.
Known for his deep and passionate teaching style, his recent seminars on the Tao Te Ching, the Gnostic Gospels of Thomas and Mary, The Cloud of Unknowing and the Upanishads have drawn a worldwide audience as one of One Spirit’s most popular teachers. He is currently working on a book, and shares a home in the Berkshire Mountains with his partner, senior Kripalu teacher Jurian Hughes, and their beloved dog Smitty.
Details of this retreat
Step into a world where radical simplicity and profound joy illuminate the path—what happens when ancient wisdom meets modern longing for meaning? Join Simon de Voil and David Wallace for a transformative 5-part journey into the spiritual depth and beauty of the Franciscan tradition. Through conversation, reflection, and song, we’ll explore the timeless wisdom of Francis and Clare of Assisi, with a special emphasis on how their teachings can inform and enrich our lives today.
What to Expect:
Immersive Exploration: Delve into the insights and teachings of Francis and Clare of Assisi, uncovering their enduring relevance for contemporary seekers.
Experiential Practices: Engage in contemplative exercises, including poetry and sacred music (visio and audio divina), to embody and experience Franciscan spirituality.
Thoughtful Dialogue: Enjoy in-depth teachings and discussions led by both facilitators, complemented by opportunities for personal reflection and group sharing.
Comprehensive Schedule: The program comprises five sessions, beginning Friday evening and concluding Sunday morning. (Commuter participants are welcome to join the three Saturday sessions.)
Continued Learning: Receive additional resources to support your ongoing exploration between sessions. Optional “homework” is available for those wishing to deepen their personal journey.
Session Schedule:
Session I: Francis & Clare (Friday evening)
Session II: Canticle of Creation (Saturday morning)
Session III: Anam Cara — The Soul Friendship of Clare and Francis (Saturday afternoon)
Session IV: Lady Poverty (Saturday evening)
Session V: The Holy Fool (Sunday morning)
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