Contemplatives of all spiritual pathways are invited to explore a deeper connection with the divine, drawing from spiritual and psychological sources to strengthen inner resources and deepen commitment.
sanctuary
MIRABAI STARR is an award-winning author, contemporary translator of sacred literature, international speaker, and world-renowned teacher of contemplative practice and inter-spiritual dialog. A certified bereavement counselor, Mirabai helps mourners harness the transformational power of loss. Her book, WILD MERCY: Living the Fierce & Tender Wisdom of the Women Mystics, continues to sell widely and has been translated into multiple languages.
CARMEN ACEVEDO BUTCHER, PhD, is an author, teacher, poet, and award-winning translator of spiritual texts. Her dynamic work around the evolution of language and the necessity of just and inclusive language has garnered interest from various media, including the BBC and NPR’s Morning Edition. A Carnegie Foundation Professor of the Year and Fulbright Senior Lecturer, Acevedo Butcher teaches at the University of California, Berkeley, in the College Writing Programs.
Carmen serves as dean of the Core Faculty at the Center for Action and Contemplation, founded by Father Richard Rohr.
Kanuga makes it a priority to make our programs accessible.
Attendance cost is calculated during online registration, depending on your lodging selection. Apply for need-based financial assistance during checkout, and note that payment plans are available.
Registration
Rates 2026
Choose from a guest house, historic cottage or a room in Kanuga Lake Inn.
The Kanuga Lake Inn is fully booked for the first night(s) of the conference (early arrival on Wednesday, November 4, and Thursday, November 5, 2026).
If you prefer Inn-style accommodations, we are pleased to offer an off-site lodging option for your first night(s). Complimentary shuttle service to and from Kanuga will be provided, making this a convenient alternative while allowing you to enjoy the comfort of Inn-style accommodations.
On Friday, November 6, 2026, you will be able to move into your room at the Kanuga Lake Inn for the remainder of your stay.
Check out photos of each type of lodging here.
We observe quiet hours from 11 p.m.-7 a.m.
Meals are included in the program fee. We serve three meals a day, buffet-style in our dining room. Please let us know of any food allergies when completing your online registration.
For the health and safety of our beloved community, Kanuga maintains high standards for food service, sanitation, and general cleanliness. All guests must be symptom-free from any communicable disease prior to arrival. Wearing masks is not required but welcomed by all, especially those at high risk or not up to date on vaccinations, or for 5 days after recovering from illness. Please visit this page for information specific to COVID in Henderson County.
During your stay, we hope you can make time to explore Kanuga’s hiking trails, wooded walks, and lakes. The indoor gym includes workout and weight rooms, as well as a basketball court.
There are myriad worship and contemplation spaces at Kanuga in which all are welcome, including the indoor Chapel of The Transfiguration and the Labyrinth and St. Francis Chapel outdoors.
If you are attending an event at Kanuga and would like to share your photos with our online community, please tag us: #kanuga @kanugaepiscopal. Drone photography is not permitted by guests.
Check-in: 4 p.m.
Check-out: 10 a.m.
Certified service animals are welcome at Kanuga in certain lodging areas.
If you are able to further support Kanuga’s retreats, conferences, and camps, please consider an annual fund gift. Kanuga is a non-profit organization affiliated with but not funded by The Episcopal Church. Gifts of any amount are welcome and appreciated.
Click here to sign up for Kanuga’s monthly communication, “News from the Pines.” Opt out at any time.