In-Person Programs

Being/Alive

A Spring Retreat with Pir Elias and Friends

May 24-28, 2026

Alton-Collins Retreat Center, Eagle Creek, Oregon

The intention of this retreat is to evoke in us, and deepen, the great mystery of aliveness. While we are all biologically alive, being fully and spontaneously alive includes not only our physical well-being but the radiance of our hearts, the freedom of our minds, and the openness of our spirits. During the retreat we will explore aliveness in each of these realms using experiential practices, inquiry, conversation, guided meditation, silence, music, and dance. 

What are the moments when you feel most alive? Can something get in the way of your sense of aliveness? What is the life you share with all reality? What does it teach you about belonging to the earth and to the cosmos? How does your aliveness help you to serve in these uneasy times? 

The retreat will be led by Pir Elias along with contributions from several teachers of the Sufi Way. Together we will experience ways of awakening our bodies and spirits, meditations in nature, and investigations into the mental habits that cloud our aliveness.

The Place

The retreat will be held at the Alton Collins Retreat Center in Eagle Creek, Oregon, about 45 minutes from the Portland International Airport. Set in a natural forest environment, the center is an ideal venue for our retreat — quiet, spacious, and alive! For information and directions, see: https://collins.gocamping.org.

Retreat Details

The retreat will begin with dinner on Sunday, May 24, and conclude with lunch on Thursday, May 28. Plan to arrive around 4:00 PM on the 24th to get settled and explore the place.

Cost

Double occupancy rooms (4 nights with all meals) — $636 per person.

Single occupancy rooms (4 nights with all meals) — $802 per person.

Day use (for those commuting) 4 days with lunches and dinners — $300 per person

Retreat tuition: $450  A limited number of partial scholarships toward the retreat tuition are available for those on lower income. To apply, write to Ihsan at ihsan@sufiway.org.

Registration

A minimum $200 deposit is required with registration. The balance is due by April 24, 2026. Deposits are refunded, minus a $50 administrative fee, for cancellations received by April 24.