A new year of community life is beginning at Casa Alterna! A new cohort of residents has moved into the Casa Alterna Community House and begun to make a home together. Last weekend, they gathered for their first formation retreat —a time to get to know one another, reflect on what it means to live in intentional community, and begin to imagine the year ahead. Together, they reflected on Casa Alterna’s commitments to hospitality, accompaniment, and immigrant justice, and what it means to put those values into practice in their shared life. As they embark on this journey of community, learning and growth, we invited residents to reflect on the retreat and the start of their life in an intentional community. Here’s what they had to say:
The few minutes to reflect in the wild was one of the important aspects for me in the retreat. It gave me time to self reflect and understand my place in this community. I’m happy we had it. – E.A.
In the calm shelter of Casa Alterna, I’ve found a circle of seven who turn chaos into peace, and in their shared warmth I feel a home as true and steady as the one I left behind in Kenya. – N.C.
I had a wonderful time getting to know my roommates on a deeper level at the retreat! I’m excited to learn more about each other and our cultures as the year goes on! – A.G.
I am grateful that we had this time together, not only to share, but also to understand more deeply who my housemates are. It is easy to say, “I like this person,” but it is truly a gift to live with people who feel comfortable sharing who they are, who genuinely care for one another, and who are willing to have meaningful conversations together in such a beautiful place. – S.M.
I’m grateful for the opportunity to share space with people from different backgrounds who are choosing to live together, support one another, share responsibilities, and grow as a community. – L.P.
The covenant building retreat reminded me of the importance of intention as we build a community life together. We must choose to be part of and participate in community every day. – D.Y.
We are grateful that these residents have the courage and commitment to embark on this journey of building community together. They are a testimony to a love that crosses borders!