Testimonials
About
• Fruit of the Spirit Retreat (FSR) is a beautiful and peaceful 7-acre Christian Retreat Centre • Scenic walking paths are surrounded by 300 acres of the York Regional Forest. • All denominations and cultures are welcome. We are all equal. “For God does not show favouritism.” Romans 2:11 • The Charity is Jesus-centred, and run by volunteers, for the Glory of God. • FSR is a Ministry of the Holy Spirit, the often-forgotten member of the Trinity. • “The Holy Spirit can do more in five minutes than we can do in fifty years.” (Bill Elliff, Author) •"Acquire the spirit of inner stillness and a thousand souls will be saved around you." Saint Seraphim of Sarov The Retreat is part of the Oak Ridges Moraine/Greenbelt, which means that it is environmentally protected land, and can never be developed. This element was very important; to preserve the natural beauty and tranquility of the space, nestled in Cedar Valley, Stouffville • The furnishings are simple and minimalistic, so that we can keep our eyes focused on Jesus. • FSR is open for weekday and weekend use, year-round.
Mission
To provide a quiet and loving place of rest for your mind, body and soul.
Vision
To help in the salvation of Souls. To form partnerships with others who have like-minded ministries, or with individuals who share our vision.
Our History
FSR is owned and operated by Fruit of the Spirit Foundation (FSF), a small Christian Charity founded in 2013, for the advancement of the Christian Faith.
Your Stay
What is a Retreat?
A Retreat is a gift of time away from the stresses and concerns of everyday life. It refreshes the mind, body and soul, and allows you to connect to your true self. You'll return home with a sense of peace and contentment. It can also be a community experience with conversations, prayers and spiritual reflection.
Types of Retreats
All Retreats can be enjoyed for day visits or overnight stays. For your visit, fresh spring water, coffee, tea and light snacks are provided.
a) Retreats for Groups (non-guided)
Hosted Retreats -
You are welcome to host your own group, for sharing ideas, team building and seminars. We will work with you to help make your event successful. What makes us unique from other venues, is the strong spiritual atmosphere of this special place. This is a beneficial granting opportunity for other registered Canadian charities.
Day Retreat -
Come with your friends and stay for a few hours, or stay for the entire day. You're welcome to use our facilities or walk the grounds. Regroup and head back out to the "world" refreshed and ready to go.
b) Retreats for Individuals / Couples (non-guided)
Personal Retreat -
You are free to enjoy the space to walk, read, journal, pray, rest, or just be still.
Silent Retreat -
It frees you from the distraction of conversation, and allows you to focus your attention inward, and listen for the voice of God.
Solitary Retreat
It is the same principle as a Silent Retreat, except there is no interaction with other people.
Fasting & Prayer Retreat –
”So we fasted and prayed to our God … and He answered our prayer,” Ezra 8:23
c) Guided Retreats -
These are not available at this time.
The many demands of our daily routine can make it hard to make space for God. We find ourselves needing time - time to be alone, to unwind, to do nothing; to catch up with ourselves; time to read, to think, to feel, to be creative; time to look back and plan ahead; to speak and to listen; time to lay things down and to take up new challenges; time to take stock, to pray and to deepen our relationship to God.
Facility and Grounds
There are 3 newly-renovated buildings on this lovely property; The Main House, The Guest House, and the Chapel.
The Main House
is equipped with a full kitchen, living and dining area, 2 bedrooms, 2 full bathrooms, large sitting/meeting area on the lower level overlooking the tranquil pond, library, and prayer room.
The Guest House
3 bedrooms and a full bathroom on the lower level. The upper level has a sitting area with a small kitchenette, bedroom, bathroom and a private balcony overlooking the grounds. There is a gas barbecue available for use on the lower back porch.
The Chapel
is a peaceful space to conduct small services, quiet prayer or use as a meeting place.
Grounds
The grounds consist of large open green spaces, with a fire pit, and a remarkable 60-foot wooden cross. This space is ideal for an outdoor worship service. There is a natural pond, with a small island and a sitting area that can be accessed by a bridge. A gentle waterfall flows all year and travels along the stream into the forest
There is a marked path along the perimeter of the property, in the forest, perfect for 'Forest Therapy/Bathing.' (Editor’s Note:“Forest Bathing is taken from the Japanese form of ‘Shinrin-Yoku’ - to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the woods. By tuning into your senses, breathing deeply and paying attention to your surroundings, it benefits your entire wellbeing – boosts immune function, lifts the spirits, decreases strain on the heart and makes you feel more alive.
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Trails at FSR
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Horse Trails at end of Faulkner Ave
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Eldred King Woodlands (Faulkner Ave & McCowan Rd)
A very important benefit of Forest Bathing is the exposure to “phytonicides,” which are essential tree oils that have many medicinal properties.” forestbathingcentral.com)
In addition, there are other walking trails adjacent to the property.
New high-speed fibre internet included
Laundry on site
Free and secure parking
Accommodations
For overnight stays, we can accommodate 12 people comfortably, in an incredibly wholesome environment. All bedding and towels are provided.
Main House -
2 Bedrooms 1queen sized bed, 1 king sized bed. All guests are responsible for their own meals. You are welcome to bring/cater/cook your meals in the main kitchen or barbecue. For your catering needs, renowned and local chef, Robert Popovski, offers event/corporate catering, private dining, prepared meals, and pantry items. Please contact directly...
Izabelle's Kitchen & Pantry Restaurants, shopping etc, are all conveniently located nearby.
Guest House -
Lower level 1 bedroom with 1 queen sized bed, 2 bedrooms with 2 double beds. Bedroom upper level - 2 double beds To experience the Retreat you are only 30 minutes away from Toronto, but it feels like you could be 5 hours away, delightfully secluded.
Bookings
Fruit of the Spirit Retreat is available for rental when not in use for retreat programs. Options exist for charities, businesses and community partners to rent in part, or the entire Retreat. Host a simple or elaborate event in our beautiful setting, nestled in the woods.
Day Visits:
$50/person---Max indoor capacity 20 people, Max outdoor capacity 50 people
Overnight Visits:
$100/person, Max 12 people (with 3 shared beds), Max 9 people (for all individual beds), Max 6 people (for all individual rooms). *These are the suggested prices for use and maintenance of the facilities. However, those with monetary restrictions can contact us to discuss modifications, within your budget. We welcome those who can provide more, so that others who are less fortunate can benefit from visiting FSR 'Be Blessed and be a Blessing'
Charity Groups:
We welcome registered Canadian charities to use FSR for their various events. We accept grants for this purpose, as FSR is owned by a registered Canadian charity.
All bookings require verbal approval & confirmation; once confirmed, a 40% deposit is required to reserve your visit. Full payment is due 24 hours prior to your arrival.
House Rules:
No recreational drugs, no alcohol, no smoking, no parties, no visitors, no children, no pets (with the exception of service animals)
Payment
a) Cheque payable to 'Fruit of the Spirit Foundation'
b) E-transfer to fotsfoundation@bell.net
Support
Donations:
We welcome your generous financial gifts for the support of Fruit of the Spirit Foundation. All donations $20 and over, will receive a tax-deductible receipt. Please provide your name, address, phone # and email, required for the tax receipt. Donations can be made as a one-time gift, or monthly pledge by:
a) Cheque payable to 'Fruit of the Spirit Foundation' b) E-transfer to 'fotsfoundation@bell.net' c) Canada Helps
Volunteers
Your time & talent is appreciated to help take care of FSR, and keep it looking good and feeling special. Some examples of ways to help: a) Help with gardening, maintaining and beautifying the property b) Help with building maintenance and housekeeping c) Show off your baking & cooking talents d) Offering to present a program or skill that would contribute to FSR programs We welcome secondary students who are seeking ways to complete their community service hours. Please contact us about your skills and availability
