Sacred Flames and Healing Wells
A retreat in Ireland blending the timeless wisdom of the Celtic Saints with the spiritual traditions of North America's Indigenous Peoples.
May 12-17, 2025
Sacred Flames and
Healing Wells
A retreat in Ireland blending the timeless wisdom of the Celtic Saints with the spiritual traditions of North America's Indigenous Peoples.
May 12-17, 2025
A land steeped in mysticism, music, and storytelling
Ireland, a land rich in mysticism, music, and storytelling, provides the perfect backdrop for this unique retreat. You’ll be invited to explore a deep sense of wonder and connection as you follow in the footsteps of Saint Brigid of Kildare. Throughout this journey, you’ll discover the intertwined wisdom of the Celtic Saints and North America's Indigenous Peoples, shared through songs, stories, chants, meditations, rituals, and visits to sacred sites.
Each morning begins with a traditional Irish breakfast, before heading to Saint Brigid’s retreat center. There, you’ll have the chance to sit by the sacred flame tended by the Brigidine Sisters and visit the serene Saint Brigid’s well nearby. Embrace moments of stillness and peace as you walk the labyrinth and roam the lush grounds, surrounded by Ireland's native trees. Your mornings will also be filled with captivating teaching, storytelling and the soul-soothing sounds of music, all carefully crafted to deepen your connection to the spiritual heritage of this enchanting land.
After the morning gatherings, we will set out on a journey to some of Ireland's most sacred and historically significant sites. We'll travel to Cashel, home to the iconic Rock of Cashel, a stunning fortress steeped in both myth and legend. Kilkenny, with its medieval charm and rich history, will offer us a glimpse into Ireland’s storied past, including the impressive St. Canice's Cathedral. We’ll make our way to the peaceful valley of Glendalough, nestled in the Wicklow Mountains, where we’ll explore the monastic ruins and soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this breathtaking landscape. Each destination promises to deepen our connection to Ireland’s spiritual heritage and provide moments for reflection and inspiration.
We will also make a trip to County Cork, where we will visit the Kindred Spirits Monument. This beautiful and unique sculpture, with its elegant arrangement of nine stainless steel feathers, stands as a testament to an extraordinary act of kindness. It honors the Choctaw Tribe, who, despite facing their own hardships during the forced relocation known as the Trail of Tears, sent a generous donation to help the Irish people during the Great Hunger (also known as the Irish Famine) in 1847. This gesture of solidarity between two cultures represents the power of empathy and compassion in times of crisis. Visiting the monument reminds us that even in moments of great suffering, humanity's capacity for kindness can bridge continents and generations.
According to legend, St. Brigid, known for her compassion and miracles, once transformed bathwater into beer to provide for lepers and priests, symbolizing her generosity and resourcefulness. In honor of her legacy, we’ll head to a local pub and you will be given the option to sample the renowned Saint Brigid’s ale, brewed right in Kildare, the heart of where she carried out many of her deeds. The pub visit is sure to offer a taste of history infused into every pint, celebrating Ireland's rich brewing tradition.
We’ll also journey to Oughterard, a location steeped in history with its connection to the famous Guinness family, who revolutionized the brewing industry. As we explore historic sites tied to this brewing dynasty, we’ll uncover how the Guinness name became synonymous with Ireland’s cultural identity. Through this exploration of Brigid’s legend and the Guinness legacy, we’ll appreciate the intersection of tradition, community, and craftsmanship that defines Irish brewing culture.
We will also make a trip to County Cork, where we will visit the Kindred Spirits Monument. This beautiful and unique sculpture, with its elegant arrangement of nine stainless steel feathers, stands as a testament to an extraordinary act of kindness. It honors the Choctaw Tribe, who, despite facing their own hardships during the forced relocation known as the Trail of Tears, sent a generous donation to help the Irish people during the Great Hunger (also known as the Irish Famine) in 1847. This gesture of solidarity between two cultures represents the power of empathy and compassion in times of crisis. Visiting the monument reminds us that even in moments of great suffering, humanity's capacity for kindness can bridge continents and generations.
According to legend, St. Brigid, known for her compassion and miracles, once transformed bathwater into beer to provide for lepers and priests, symbolizing her generosity and resourcefulness. In honor of her legacy, we’ll head to a local pub and you will be given the option to sample the renowned Saint Brigid’s ale, brewed right in Kildare, the heart of where she carried out many of her deeds. The pub visit is sure to offer a taste of history infused into every pint, celebrating Ireland's rich brewing tradition.
We’ll also journey to Oughterard, a location steeped in history with its connection to the famous Guinness family, who revolutionized the brewing industry. As we explore historic sites tied to this brewing dynasty, we’ll uncover how the Guinness name became synonymous with Ireland’s cultural identity. Through this exploration of Brigid’s legend and the Guinness legacy, we’ll appreciate the intersection of tradition, community, and craftsmanship that defines Irish brewing culture.
YOUR HOST & GUIDES
KARI
BROWNING
Retreat Host
Kari Browning dedicated 20 years to pastoring a local church, where she organized numerous conferences, seminars, and retreats. She also founded a regional training center, a Bible college, and a Reggio-inspired preschool.
Kari holds board certifications in Clinical Hypnotherapy, Neuro-Linguistic Programming, EFT, and Life Coaching, and is certified in Somatic Experiencing. She developed a trauma-informed life coaching course and has trained coaches across many nations. Her passion lies in helping people heal, transform, and grow in love.
Of Irish and Cherokee heritage, Kari lives in Arizona with her husband of 44 years, embracing life to the fullest.
KENNETH MCINTOSH
Retreat Guide
Kenneth McIntosh is a writer, educator, and United Church of Christ pastor. Drawn to Celtic legends from his heritage as a child, he later experienced a profound spiritual awakening.
With degrees in English and theology, along with travels in the Middle East, Ireland, Scotland, and Wales, Kenneth’s work is deeply inspired by his experiences. He is best known for Water from an Ancient Well: Celtic Spirituality for Modern Life and has authored many other books. Kenneth is also a respected speaker, offering classes, workshops, and seminars in the US and UK.
Living in New York’s Western Finger Lakes with his wife Marsha and his cat Bunty, he enjoys walking pilgrimages, labyrinths, reading fantasy novels, and model rocketry.
TERRY & DARLENE WILDMAN
Retreat Guides
Terry and Darlene Wildman live in Maricopa, Arizona, on the ancestral lands of the Pima and Tohono O’odham peoples. Terry has Ojibwe and Yaqui heritage, while Darlene, of Irish descent, is an honorary member of the Miami Indians of Indiana.
They are the Grammy-nominated and Nammy award-winning duo, RainSong, known for blending traditional Native sounds with contemporary styles.
Terry is the Lead Translator and Project Manager of the First Nations Version, a Native American translation of the New Testament. He also leads spiritual growth for Native InterVarsity and speaks on Indigenous spirituality and Christian theology, promoting understanding between Native and non-Native communities.
What's Included?
- Five nights of double-occupancy accommodation at Firecastle, with many rooms offering stunning views of Saint Brigid’s Cathedral
- Dinner on Monday; all meals from Tuesday to Friday; and breakfast on Saturday (Please let us know if you have any dietary needs)
- Daily retreat sessions in a cozy, small-group setting, limited to 22 participants
- Excursions to Cashel, Kilkenny, Glendalough, County Cork, and Oughterard
- Evening gatherings, either in a private bar or around a fire pit
- Admission to all scheduled sites
- Private coach transportation for all excursions
- An optional complimentary pint of ale at Boyle's pub (non-alcohol options available)
- Access to a private Facebook group with recommended reading and additional resources
What's Included?
- Five nights of double-occupancy accommodation at Firecastle, with many rooms offering stunning views of Saint Brigid’s Cathedral
- Dinner on Monday; all meals from Tuesday to Friday; and breakfast on Saturday (Please let us know if you have any dietary needs)
- Daily retreat sessions in a cozy, small-group setting, limited to 22 participants
- Excursions to Cashel, Kilkenny, Glendalough, County Cork, and Oughterard
- Evening gatherings, either in a private bar or around a fire pit
- Admission to all scheduled sites
- Private coach transportation for all excursions
- An optional complimentary pint of ale at Boyle's pub (non-alcohol options available)
- Access to a private Facebook group with recommended reading and additional resources
What's NOT Included?
- Airfare to Dublin, Ireland
- Transportation from Dublin Airport to the retreat venue in Kildare (we can provide guidance on transportation options – approximately $20 per person each way)
- Travel insurance (recommended but not required). Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, including unexpected accidents, illnesses, and emergencies. Travel insurance can reimburse you if your trip gets canceled or interrupted due to unforeseen circumstances like illness, weather, or family emergencies. If your luggage is lost, delayed, or stolen, travel insurance can provide coverage to replace essential items or reimburse you for losses. Insurance can cover additional expenses, like food and lodging, if your flight is delayed or canceled.
- Alcoholic beverages with meals
- Additional $500 fee for single occupancy room
Let us know if you need help making transportation arrangements.
Activity level
Guests should be in good physical health and comfortable walking short distances. There are also optional activities available for those who are able to walk longer distances and climb stairs.
Weather
The weather in Ireland can be quite unpredictable, and there's always a chance of rain, so it's a good idea to pack a rain jacket. Since temperatures can change throughout the day, it's best to bring clothes you can layer for extra comfort.
More Details
Accommodations will be at Firecastle in Market Square, Kildare. Check-in begins at 3:00 pm on Monday, May 12, 2025.
For those flying in, the closest airport is Dublin. It’s a good idea to arrive a day early to adjust to the time difference and minimize any travel hiccups. If you need suggestions for places to stay in Dublin or Kildare, just ask!
There’s an affordable bus from Dublin airport to Kildare (under $20), which drops you off at Kildare Village—only a 10-minute walk from Firecastle. Uber is a convenient option once you arrive in Kildare if you do not want to walk to Firecastle with your luggage.
Our first gathering will be a dinner and orientation at SilkenThomas, a short walk from Firecastle, at 6:00 pm on Monday, May 12.
Breakfast will be available at the Firecastle café from 7:30 am to 9:00 am, Tuesday through Saturday.
A private coach will pick us up at 9:00 am from Tuesday to Friday at Firecastle, taking us to the retreat center. We will depart at 11:00 am for excursions from the retreat center, with boxed lunches provided. We’ll return around 5:00 pm each day, with dinner following at Hartes of Kildare, conveniently located next to Firecastle. After dinner, we’ll come together for group sharing in the private bar at Hartes of Kildare or around the fire pit.
Check-out is by 11:00 am on Saturday, May 17. You can take the bus back to Dublin airport from Kildare Village. You can arrange your own travel if you plan to extend your stay.
The cost is $1,950 per person, based on double occupancy.
Space is limited, so early registration is encouraged. A $500 deposit per person will secure your spot. Deposits are fully refundable for 15 days after registration. (After 15 days, the deposit is non-refundable but is transferable.)
The remaining balance of $1,450 is due by March 15, 2025. (Once the balance is paid, it is non-refundable but is transferable.)
For those who prefer a single room, there is an additional charge of $500. Please indicate your preference for single occupancy when making your deposit. This additional fee is also due by March 15, 2025.
Contact Us
Claim Your Spot Now
Space is limited. A $500 deposit secures your spot.