THOMAS GATHERINGS – JOURNEYING WITH THE APOSTLE OF THE EAST
Have you ever doubted, like Thomas, and longed for a tangible sign of God’s presence? Join us at Thomas Gatherings as we walk the Thomas Path, exploring both our doubts, faith struggles, and the unique ways God speaks to each of us.
Is this even real?
In a world facing war, climate crises, and deep suffering, many of us, like Thomas after the crucifixion, find ourselves questioning: “God, are you even real? Do you even care?” With so much pain around us, it can feel impossible to believe that God cares about the world—or even more, that He cares about us personally. For many, faith feels distant without a tangible, personal encounter with the Divine.
A skeptic who sought proof through personal experience, Thomas also needed more than words and others’ stories. His faith had been deeply shaken by seeing Christ crucified. He wanted to know: “Jesus, are you truly alive? Are you there for me?” Thomas longed to feel Christ’s presence directly, to touch and see God’s love firsthand. His honesty and vulnerability were rewarded when Jesus welcomed his questions, invited him to come close, and allowed him to touch His wounds.
Thomas’ willingness to bring his doubts, questions, and needs to the surface opened the way for one of the most intimate encounters he had with Christ. The story of Thomas reminds us of the power of honest doubt, deep questions, and a longing for a true experience of God. His journey—from skepticism to profound faith—reveals a path that embraces vulnerability and courage in seeking the Divine, even when the questions are hard.
Later, Jesus called Thomas to a unique role—to journey to India, where millions today consider him their spiritual father. At our Thomas Gatherings, we honor the legacy of Thomas’ journey from Palestine to India. You’ll experience insights from the documentary Tracking St. Thomas – The Apostle of the East, drawing inspiration from Thomas’ journey, his deep yearning for assurance, and the spirituality of the Mar Thoma Christians of India.
What can you expect at a Thomas Gathering?
At the Thomas Gatherings, we invite you to explore your deepest doubts, lingering questions, and longings for a personal encounter with the Divine. Like Thomas, we believe that expressing our doubts, disappointments, and even anger toward God is vital to true spiritual growth. Confronting these feelings can feel unsettling—or even risky—but a relationship with God rooted in honesty is the only foundation for a deeper, lasting connection.
At the same time, we believe each of us has a unique “wiring,” and that God communicates with us in ways as personal as we are. Just as Jesus met Thomas in an intimate and personal encounter—inviting him to touch His wounds and offering the proof Thomas needed—God meets each of us where we are, speaking to our spiritual needs and questions. Thomas was the only disciple to touch Jesus’ wounds, experiencing a connection uniquely suited to him and his journey.
Sometimes, we need a little help to notice how God has been—and continues to be—reaching out to us. In the midst of our routines and struggles, it’s easy to miss the subtle ways the Divine shows up in our everyday lives. When we take time to reflect, we may begin to see traces of God’s presence woven through our experiences, offering comfort, guidance, and connection when we need it most.
Our connection with God isn’t static; it shifts and grows as we move through different phases of life, with new ways of sensing His presence and love. In the Thomas Gatherings, we explore diverse forms of prayer, meditation, and creative practices to help you discern how God may be reaching out to you in this season. This is a space to discover what is most life-giving for you, honoring the ways God invites you into a deeper, personal relationship. Here’s what you can expect:
Insight from the Thomas Tradition
We draw inspiration from biblical texts about Thomas, his journey to India, and the spirituality of the “Thomas Christians.”
Space for Silence and Reflection
Our gatherings provide dedicated time for silence, inviting you to listen to the quiet longings of your heart. We put away cell phones and screens, creating space for inner listening.
Creative and Contemplative Practices
You’ll explore practices that help you connect with God in a unique, embodied way. These might include movement, journaling, dream work, “divine reading,” and other creative forms of spiritual exploration. Honoring both the senses and imagination, these practices invite you to experience God beyond words.
Exploration of Doubts
We believe in taking our doubts seriously. Delve into your deepest questions and existential dilemmas within a supportive, non-judgmental setting.
Community and Solitude
Experience the balance between community interaction and solitude, allowing time to reflect, recharge, and connect on a deeper level.
Soulful Conversations
For those who wish to share with others, we offer opportunities for soulful conversations. Sharing is always voluntary. For those who wish to go even deeper, we offer optional follow-up “soultalk sessions” after the gatherings (or during multi-day gatherings). These one-on-one conversations provide a space to explore personal questions, spiritual encounters, and the desires of your heart in a setting of deep listening and spiritual companionship.
Thomas days for extended exploration
For those seeking a more immersive experience, we offer Thomas Days—multi-day gatherings allowing for extended time in silence, contemplation, and individual exploration. These gatherings provide more space to honor and explore the intimate desires of your heart and the unique ways you encounter God. Thomas Days may conclude with a Thomas Mass.
For whom is this retreat?
This retreat welcomes anyone on a spiritual quest who wants to explore their faith within a Christian framework. Whether you’re filled with questions, seeking deeper connection, or simply curious about God’s presence in your life, we invite you to journey along the Thomas Path. Here, we honor your doubts, longings, and hopes for an authentic relationship with the Divine.
Your retreat guide
Filmmaker Thea Haavet brings a unique blend of experience in theater, dance, religious history, psychology, pastoral care, and spiritual direction. Her work, including the film Tracking St. Thomas – The Apostle of the East, reflects her deep engagement with Thomas’ legacy and its ongoing relevance for our spiritual journeys today.
Walk the Thomas path with us!
“If you feel drawn to explore your own Thomas Path, reach out to us. Embrace the mystery of faith, step into honesty with God, and discover what might unfold as you walk forward with open questions and heart.”
Interested? Send us a message:
