The Space Between Stories
June 24-28, 2026
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This is a special 5-day retreat for a special time. The dissolution of who we thought we were, and what we thought was real, that so many of us have experienced is accelerating on a mass level. People who never before questioned "normal" are in deepening doubt. Each of us, in our own way, is entering a space between stories, where the old story no longer makes sense but the new one has not yet arrived. Or it has arrived, but it is not fully formed, and the old stories still pull on us.
In this retreat, we will embrace the space between stories, the unknowing and the unlearning, and thereby discover the truths that are beyond story. These are essential guides in coming times, when different information ghettos offer completely different stories about what is happening in the world, what is coming, what is real. And, embracing the space between, we clear the air for a new story to emerge, a genuinely new story not a retelling of the old. This retreat is also part of the wider field of A New and Ancient Story, a living inquiry into what it means to be human in a time between worlds. While some participants may already be connected through that community which I started with Patsy many years ago, many will be arriving for the first time. All are equally welcome here. No prior connection or familiarity is needed—only a willingness to enter the unknown together. Families with children are welcome! Ferry Beach offers a playground, an art room, and, of course, the beach itself. We love the presence and energy of children weaving through the gathering. If there is sufficient interest, we will hire a dedicated childcare provider during workshops and Charles' programs, with costs shared among participating parents. Childcare needs can be indicated in this form. Program: In addition to Charles's daily program, the retreat will include morning yoga and meditation and volunteer-led workshops in the afternoon such as breathwork, improv, embodiment practices, energy work, music, re-imagining leadership, self-inquiry, and the like. Schedule: 5 days, 4 nights Check-in Wednesday June 24 ~ 4pm Check-out Sunday June 28 ~ 10am Wednesday afternoon:
Wednesday evening:
Thursday & Friday:
Saturday:
Sunday:
Travel: Portland International Jetport is the nearest airport. The drive to Ferry Beach is about 25 minutes and there are several taxi companies, Lyft and Uber, and car rental agencies. Boston Logan International Airport is about two hours away. As we’ve done in previous years, we will be helping to coordinate rides. Please let us know if you need a ride or can offer a ride here. Interested in volunteering during the retreat? Please go here. Interested in offering a workshop? Please fill out this form. About Charles’ work: https://charleseisenstein.org/ About A New and Ancient Story Network and Community: naascommunity.org Halfmoon Podcast by Charles Eisenstein and Patsy Eisenstein: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLO7FHz7bAoR7jF6zPsOhMqigpoAbWqipY |
Register Today!
Location:Ferry Beach is a beautiful beachfront retreat center in Southern Maine (Saco, ME). Nestled in nature with the beach on one side and a wooded Grove area on the other. Ferry Beach is a place to experience a respite away from the everyday world. You can enjoy all this 32 acre property has to offer; including many porches, a wonderful dining center, volleyball court, art studio playgrounds, outdoor chapel and of course the beach!
Registration:
All-Inclusive Stay All prices include lodging and meals. Accommodations include bunk beds, private rooms, or onsite camping. Commuters: If you are staying off-site, please register for day visits to cover your facility use and meals. Program Fee: The cost to register covers the venue’s costs for accommodation, use of the property, classrooms, and meals. Charles’s program fee is determined by participants. If you feel moved and have the means to offer a financial gift, you are welcome to contribute whatever amount feels right to you. Opportunities to give will be available during and after the gathering, should you prefer to wait. Please click here to donate directly to Charles. We work intentionally to keep costs as low as possible and to welcome as many people as we can. Contributions to the scholarship fund help remove financial barriers and support broader participation. Scholarship Fund: We invite your contributions to the scholarship fund to support broader participation for those who might not be able to come due to financial barriers. If you are needing a scholarship, please fill out this form. Deposit and Cancellation Policy: A deposit of 25% of your total reservation is due at the time of registration. The remaining balance is due 15 days prior to your arrival. A reminder email will be sent three weeks before the gathering to those with an outstanding balance. If full payment is not received by then, your reservation may be released to others. If you cancel on or before June 9, 2026 (15 days prior to check-in) you will receive a 25% refund minus a $75 processing fee. No refund will be issued for cancellations after June 9, unless we are able to find someone to take your spot. In the event, that the gathering is fully booked, a partial or full non-refundable credit towards a future gathering may be offered. We will contact you within approximately 30 days after the event to let you know whether this credit is available. |
Our mission at Ferry Beach is to awaken hearts to explore, grow and renew the spirit of universal love.
We work by creating programing and events in the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Spirituality, Sustainability, Personal Growth and Justice & Action.
We work by creating programing and events in the areas of Arts & Culture, Education, Spirituality, Sustainability, Personal Growth and Justice & Action.
